Stair lifts are a simple home modification that make stairs more accessible (and safer) for aging Americans. While falls are currently the leading cause of death in injury-related deaths in those ages 65 and over, they’re also preventable. Modifications such as stair lifts, grab bars, and toilet risers make homes more accessible for those choosing to age in place.
As homeowners age, they often face the difficult decision of installing stair lifts or moving into homes designed for seniors, typically in retirement villages or communities.
If you’d like to age in place, there are a few options, including renting or buying stair lifts that can help prevent falls. In this article, we’ll cover the pros and cons of renting versus buying stair lifts and how much they cost.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Renting a Stairlift?
Hiring a stair lift offers homeowners lower upfront costs and greater flexibility. For example, renting is the perfect option if you only need access to a stair lift for a few months.
Renting also provides essential services such as maintenance, and it’s easy to test out a product before committing to a big purchase. Yelena Sokolsky, RN and CEO of Galaxy Home Care NY, an expert in senior care, shares that “If the need is temporary—due to recovery from surgery, for example—renting a stairlift can be a cost-effective solution. Rentals often come with maintenance and installation services included, which means less hassle for the caregiver or family”.
The downside to renting a stairlift (instead of buying) is that the long-term costs are typically higher. If you need the rented stair lift longer than expected, it can quickly exceed the purchase price.
When renting a stair lift, customization options, such as curved stair products, are not always available. Also, some rental mobility aids may have restrictions, and you may be unable to extend the service.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Buying a Stairlift?
So, you’re thinking about buying a stairlift to improve the safety of your home? We think that’s a great idea. A recent study by Melissa Hawkins shows that installing assistive devices in the home, such as grab bars and stair lifts, makes homes safer and reduces the risk of falls.
Purchasing a stair lift may be an excellent option if you’re looking for the best long-term, cost-effective solution. After buying, you’ll own the device and can use it in your home for as long as you want.
Those with curved stair lifts or other unique stairs can order customizable stairlifts to suit their space, and installing stairlifts may increase home value in some communities. Oliver Morrisey, an Australian lawyer and director of Empower Wills and Estates Lawyers, believes that “From an estate planning standpoint, owning the stairlift positions it as a long-term asset that could potentially increase the property’s value or make the home more accessible and livable for the owner in their later years.”
The cons of purchasing a stair lift over renting one are the higher upfront costs. You’ll pay more upfront and be responsible for hiring professionals to help repair or maintain the device.
What Should You Consider Before Renting or Buying Stair Lifts?
Before buying or hiring stair lifts, consider how long you’ll need them. If you need them for a month to a year, it’s likely safe to rent; longer periods may require purchasing.
If you can’t afford the upfront costs of buying a stair lift, the lower costs of renting are an excellent way to make your home accessible without breaking the bank.
At the end of the day, it’s up to you and what you’d like to do to make your home safer.
FAQs About Renting or Buying Stair Lifts
How much does it cost to rent a stair lift versus buying one?
On average, a stair lift rental costs between $175 and $400 per month, while buying a stair lift generally costs between $3,400 and $27,000.
Renting is cheaper if you only need a stair lift for less than a year, and buying is more cost-effective if you hope to use it long-term.
Can I buy used stair lifts?
Yes, you can buy used stair lifts. If you are certified to install stair lifts, you can buy used ones and install them yourself. If you aren’t a professional stair lift installer, it’s best to work with a professional to install new or used stair lifts.
Where can I buy or rent a stair lift?
Companies like Independent Home Solutions offer a range of home modification services, including stair lifts, wheelchair ramps, and walk-in showers. We provide high-quality service and offer rental and purchase options for mobility aids, including stair lifts.
What areas does Independent Home Services serve?
Independent Home Solutions services many areas in Kansas City including Fairway, Kansas City, Leawood, Lenexa, Mission, Mission Hills, Overland Park, Olathe, Prairie Village, Shawnee, Roeland Park, and Westwood in Kansas and Blue Springs, Belton, Gladstone, Grain Valley, Grandview, Independence, Kansas City, Lee’s Summit, Liberty, North Kansas City, Pleasant Hill, Raymore, Raytown, and Waldo in Missouri.
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