Learn New Technology

FaceTime, Zoom, Skype, Facebook, and Marco Polo offer free video chat options for communicating with friends and family. You don’t have to be tech-savvy! Using the essential functions is easy and if setting up an account seems daunting, ask a family member or neighbor for help. If that’s not an option, YouTube has easy-to-follow tutorials for just about everything.

Engage with your Community from Home

Feeling like you’ve lost track of what’s going on in your town can make you feel more isolated than ever. Many local organizations such as political groups, church groups, charities, social clubs, etc., rely on volunteers to make phone calls and offer ways to participate that don’t involve meeting in person. Groups that used to meet in person now often offer digital meetings via Zoom or hybrid sessions with some participants in person and some on Zoom.

Use the Buddy System

The CDC recommends that communities create buddy systems to make sure that vulnerable and hard-to-reach people stay connected. If you have a friend or family member that you know is struggling with isolation, make a regular phone or video chat date. You can even have several! We’re all in these challenging times together, and most of us would benefit from more time spent connecting with others, so never be shy to ask.

Start a New Activity

Ever wanted to play guitar or sew a quilt? Any new activity you want to start during Covid can help you stay connected without having to meet anyone in person. There are Zoom lessons for everything right now, and they’re affordable and easy to find. You can even find a friend to start the activity simultaneously, so you have someone you’re already familiar with to talk to about it.

Get Outside

Parks and hiking trails offer a beautiful place to break the monotony of staying home all the time. If you take appropriate precautions, you can even meet friends or family there and catch up. Getting outside and walking is one of the best exercises for seniors, mentally and physically, and can help you stay mobile and independent. If you find walking boring, audiobooks and podcasts can keep you company. Many local libraries allow you to check out audiobooks for free right from your phone.

Social distancing does not have to mean social isolation. Our tips for how seniors can stay connected during covid can help us all stay healthy and strong. With a bit of effort and flexibility, it is possible to stay connected to our loved ones, deepen connections, and thrive. If improving your mobility inside your home would improve your daily life while we’re all spending more time at home, get in touch with one of our aging-in-place experts to find the right mobility solution for your home.

For More Information About Loneliness and Social Isolation

AmeriCorps Seniors
800-942-2677
www.nationalservice.gov/programs/senior-corps

Eldercare Locator
800-677-1116 (toll-free)
eldercarelocator@n4a.org 
https://eldercare.acl.gov

AARP
888-687-2277 (toll-free)
877-434-7598 (TTY/toll-free)
member@aarp.org
www.aarp.org

Alzheimer’s Association
800-272-3900 (toll-free)
866-403-3073 (TTY/toll-free)
info@alz.org
www.alz.org 

Connect2Affect
https://connect2affect.org

Family Caregiver Alliance
800-445-8106 (toll-free)
info@caregiver.org
www.caregiver.org

Meals on Wheels America
888-998-6325 (toll-free)
info@mealsonwheelsamerica.org
www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org

USAging
202-872-0888
info@uasging.org
www.usaging.org

National Council on Aging
571-527-3900
https://www.ncoa.org/

SilverSneakers
866-584-7389
support@silversneakers.com
www.silversneakers.com

NIA Alzheimer’s and related Dementias Education and Referral (ADEAR) Center
800-438-4380 (toll-free)
adear@nia.nih.gov
www.nia.nih.gov/alzheimers

The post How Seniors can Stay Connected During Covid appeared first on HomeLift Mobility.

It’s easy to see why older adults would prefer to stay in their homes but there are many practical implications that may force them to move. We’ll take you through how to plan for aging in place on several levels: the individual, the home, and the support network.

Is the individual physically able to age in place?

The main consideration is the individual. What is their mobility like? How much assistance do they need with day-to-day tasks such as walking, dressing, bathing, cooking, or cleaning? Are there any cognitive issues that could make these activities impossible or dangerous? Are there medical conditions that would impede these activities now or in the future? Is there anyone that could assist such as a family member or home health worker? Is there enough room in the budget for tasks the person can no longer perform such as heavy cleaning or lawn maintenance?

Is the home safe for seniors?

The home itself will often be a deciding factor in whether or not a senior can remain safely and comfortably. Most housing was developed with independent adults in mind, with little to no thought for those with differing levels of mobility. Things like unsafe stairs, multiple stories, and narrow doorways can make things more difficult. Luckily, multi-story homes can be easily adapted with a stairlift or home elevator. Even outdoor stairs can be made safe with a lift or ramp. Widening doorways to accommodate a wheelchair or walker can be tricky but is certainly doable. Materials to widen doorways can cost anywhere between $300 to $800 and upwards of $2,500 when hiring a contractor, according to Consumer Affairs. No-step entries can be added to make homes more wheelchair accessible, and decrease the risk of tripping over step entrances. They typically cost around $800 to $1,500 to install.

You may also want to replace some of your appliances with more senior-friendly models. A step-in tub with a door can make independent bathing much safer and easier. Even installing simple grab bars and purchasing a shower seat can make a huge difference. A stove that is higher up and you won’t have to bend as much to use would be helpful. Some electric stoves even have things like timers that automatically turn off the heat if you leave them on too long. There are lines of microwaves with simple controls, large buttons, louder alarms, and easy to open handles as well. You might require the help of professionals such as occupational therapists, home designers, and contractors to make sure all the necessary changes are made that will allow the senior to remain in their home safely and independently.

Is there enough support for aging in place?

Having a strong support network is going to make aging in place much more feasible. Seniors will require some degree of assistance from family, friends, and neighbors. There may also be helpful resources in your community like Meals on Wheels, local libraries, senior centers, transportation services, etc. Maintaining strong social connections is key to both the health and happiness of individuals aging in place. Keeping a senior engaged with the community and loved ones is a key component in any plan for aging in place.

Is it worth it to plan for aging in place?

We all deserve to age on our own terms in the environment we are comfortable in. If simple modifications are all that stand between staying at home and moving to a facility, it’s well worth the effort. Planning for aging in place may seem daunting but there are many resources available to help you tackle this. If you live in Tennessee or Northern Alabama and you have any questions about stairlifts, wheelchair lifts, or home elevators, please reach out to us and our Aging in Place Experts can help.

The post How to Plan for Aging in Place appeared first on HomeLift Mobility.

Getting older might not be something we all look forward to, but aging is a reality we all must face one day. Many aging experts express it is very important how you look at the passing of your years. Honing in on the best aspects of your life has a lot to do with your happiness and health later in life. By understanding and practicing positive aging, it can really assist older adults to enjoy their golden years. Check out our 5 tips seniors can use for positive aging.   

What is Positive Aging?   

Aging is inevitable. A positive attitude is believed to help protect us against the common stressors and negative experiences that occur with age. We all know this to be true, but as you continue reading, you will learn how people apply these tips to adjust to their aging process. 

1. Find a Purpose

One possibility to encourage positive aging is allowing your elders to have something to look forward to each day. Encourage your loved one to find his or her purpose. Whether that is starting a company, achieving a specific weight goal, or joining an organization to work on causes that are dear to their heart. By focusing on significant goals it can provide a purpose and structure that encourages you or your elderly loved ones to keep pushing forward. 

2. Learn a New Skill

Positive aging also pertains to intellectual activity. Regardless of you or your loved one’s age, people can always continue to learn new things. Ultimately, pushing themselves out of their comfort zone could boost brain cell growth and keep the mind stimulated. Try to suggest meaningful tasks to work on, such as taking a foreign language class or learning how to be more proficient with technology. Learning a new craft is a stimulating and fulfilling way to spend one’s time as well.

3. Use Positive Affirmations

Did you know mornings are the most crucial time of day to work on creating a positive attitude because it can set the tone for the entire day? If you or your loved one make it a goal to up early, it can better prepare you for your day. When you start your day with gratitude, you have wired your brain to notice the good in your life. Negative thoughts could turn into stressful situations and prevent healthy aging. Reflecting on the things you like about yourself and your life and saying them out loud regularly can improve your self-image and keep you focused on the best parts of your life.

4. Stay Active  

Not only does staying active provide you with physical health benefits, but also the mental health aspect of exercising is nearly endless. Try to incorporate some form of exercise at least three days per week. This can increase the production of endorphins in the body, which acts as a stress reliever and leaves you feeling happy and satisfied. Any exercise that allows seniors to move naturally is typically the best exercise for healthy aging. There are also plenty of senior exercise groups that can provide social activity as well.

5. Help Others  

The recent events of COVID-19 have limited our ability to contribute to our community and help those in need, but there are plenty of volunteer and action opportunities, both virtual and in-person. Volunteering and showing random acts of kindness can contribute to positive aging. Providing wisdom, working with others, or offering financial aid may help you or your loved ones enhance mental and emotional well-being. Compassion and human connection increase happiness in the golden years.

Aging is an inescapable part of life, so you might as well make the most of it and live as joyfully as possible in your golden years. If you have mobility issues, let HomeLift help you with aging positively by giving you the tools to live independently and remain in the home you love. Contact us today if you’re interested in adding a stairlift or home elevator to your life.

The post Five Tips to Help with Positive Aging appeared first on HomeLift Mobility.

Where Our Used Stairlifts Come From

We offer a limited selection of used stairlifts that we have bought back from our previous customers under special circumstances. We only buy back stairlifts that we sold and installed ourselves within the last year and pass a rigorous inspection by our technicians. This service is limited to our Stannah and Bruno stairlifts, and we cannot buy back curved or customized units. We are unable to buy back curved stairlifts because they need to be custom-built for each curved staircase.

How Much Used Stairlifts Cost

New straight stairlifts generally cost $3,000 to $6,000. The overall price can vary depending on the brand, model, and type, but average savings on a used model can range from $500 to $1,500 off the cost of a new stairlift. If this is still out of reach for a one-time payment, we offer financing through our partnership with Lightstream. If you’re at all concerned about cost, please reach out to us so we can explore every way possible we can help reduce costs. We never want finances to prevent people from having equipment that can keep them safe and greatly improve their quality of life.

Buying a Used Stairlift

When we acquire pre-owned stairlifts, we hold onto them in our warehouse until we have a client who needs a stairlift but cannot afford one full price. If we have a used model that fits their staircase, we will sell it to them at a discounted price. This does tend to be a somewhat limited option as we only carry a few used lifts at a time, but for those who need them, they can be a great option. If you’re interested in seeing if we currently have a pre-owned stairlift that’s right for your home, contact us today. If you want to learn more about stairlift pricing in general, head over to our recent blog post.

The post Our Complete Guide to Used Stairlifts appeared first on HomeLift Mobility.

Bruno Stairlift Models

BRUNO ELAN STRAIGHT

• Space-saving design – this stairlift fits most stairways.
• Manual swivel seat and manual fold footrest.
• One-person load capacity of 300 lbs.
• Lifetime warranty on the motor and gearbox; 2-year warranty on parts and labor.
• Made in the USA
• Brochure

BRUNO ELITE STRAIGHT

Gain high performance, modern styling, and heavy lift capacity with Bruno’s top-of-the-line Elite straight stairlift. Make your life a little easier with a Bruno Elite, featuring Made-In-America quality and maximum comfort.

• Temperature tested 0˚F – 125˚F (-18˚C – 52˚C)
• One-person load capacity of 400 lbs.
• Lifetime warranty on the motor and gearbox; 2-year warranty on parts and labor.
• Made in the USA
• Brochure

BRUNO ELITE OUTDOOR STRAIGHT

Designed to withstand varying climates, the Elite outdoor stairlift features weather-resistant materials, easy operation, and high-performance engineering.

• Manual swivel seat and manual folding footrest. Power folding footrest and seat available for an additional charge.
• One-person load capacity of 400 lbs.
• Lifetime warranty on the motor and gearbox; 2-year warranty on parts and labor.
• Made in the USA
• Brochure

BRUNO ELITE CURVED

• Custom-designed rail made to fit your stairs.
• Manual swivel seat and manual folding footrest. Power folding footrest and seat available for an additional charge.
• One-person load capacity of 400 lbs.
• 5-year warranty on the motor and gearbox; 2-year warranty on parts and labor.
• Made in the USA
• Brochure

Bruno Stairlift FAQs

What Customization Is Available For Bruno Stair Lifts?

All Bruno indoor stair lifts have customizable options to improve your life. Whether you need a power or manual folding rail, a power swivel seat, a power-folding footrest, or custom seat fabric – Bruno wants your new stairlift to meet all your needs and fit perfectly into your home and lifestyle. Read Bruno’s 2024 Stair Lift Guide for more information!

How Long Does Stair Lift Installation Take?

Bruno straight stair lifts can typically be installed within 3 hours, while custom curved stairlifts may take longer depending on the application and length. HomeLift will provide you with an accurate timeframe for the installation as part of your consultation.

How Are Bruno Stair Lifts Powered?

All Bruno stair lifts are both AC- and battery-powered. While Bruno stairlifts draw from AC power in standard operation, Bruno’s “continuous charging” system for indoor straight stairlifts keeps the battery at full power along the entire rail. This provides peace of mind that the batteries will be fully charged and ready to go even during a power outage.

What Is The Warranty On A Bruno Stair Lift?

Bruno offers industry-leading stair lift warranties. Bruno indoor stairlifts feature a Lifetime Limited Warranty, while outdoor models feature a 5-year Limited Warranty.

Is Home Modification Required For Stair Lift Installation?

Bruno stair lifts are not permanent and do not require modification to be installed in your home. Bruno stairlifts are installed directly onto the top of your stair treads and can be removed with few signs a unit was ever installed.

Where Are Bruno Stair Lifts Manufactured?

Bruno stair lifts are Made in the USA at Bruno’s Oconomowoc, Wisconsin manufacturing facility.

How do I purchase a Bruno Stairlift?

HomeLift installs and services Bruno stairlifts throughout Tennessee and Northern Alabama. At HomeLift, we offer free in-home consultations with one of our stairlift specialists to help you decide what stairlift best fits your needs and that of your family. Our stairlift specialists are trained advisors with years of experience in the accessibility industry. We guarantee every installation and service all of the stairlifts we install. We also offer extended service plans to keep your stairlift in good working condition for many years. Contact us to get started.

The post Manufacturer Spotlight: Bruno Stairlifts appeared first on HomeLift Mobility.

Benefits of Pneumatic Vacuum Elevators

• No pit excavation, hoist-way, or machine room required
• Made in the USA
• Installation within one to three days
• Two to five stops for residential, marine, and stage applications
• Self-supporting structure: the elevator is capable of freestanding on any level ground surface
• “Green Elevator:” minimal energy consumption required during ascent and no energy necessary for descent
• Modern design allows 360º visibility without cables or pistons that block vision
• Minimal maintenance: no lubricants or regular service required
• Absolute safety: in the event of a power failure, the elevator cab automatically descends to the lowest level, and the electromechanical door opens to allow passengers to exit
• Extremely smooth starting and stopping operations

Models

PVE30

• Single passenger elevator
• 350 lbs lift capacity (159 kg)
• External cylinder diameter: 30 inches (750 mm)
• 30 ft/min traveling speed
• Aluminum & polycarbonate structure
• Automatic interior LED lighting and fan
• In-line door openings

PVE37

• Two passenger elevator
• 450 lbs lift capacity (205 kg)
• External cylinder diameter: 37 inches (950 mm)
• 30 ft/min traveling speed
• Aluminum & polycarbonate structure
• Automatic interior LED lighting and fan
• In-line, walk-through and 90° door openings

PVE52

• Three passenger elevator
• Wheelchair accessible
• 525 lbs lift capacity (238 kg)
• External cylinder diameter: 52 11/16 inches
• (1,338 mm)
• 20 ft/min traveling speed
• Aluminum & polycarbonate structure
• Automatic interior LED lighting and fan
• In-line and walk-through door openings

PVE Installation

Pneumatic vacuum elevators are faster and easier to install than most other types of elevators. There are three main components to the transparent, self-supporting vacuum elevator:

• The Exterior Cylinder made up of an aluminum frame and polycarbonate panels
• The Elevator Car made of steel, which houses the brake and safety mechanisms along with the proprietary seal located on top of the car
• The Suction Assembly located on top of the upper cylinder, which houses the turbine engines, valves, and the PVE control board

Several customization options are available, including the color of the frame, optional cabin phone, optional cabin key lock, and optional foldable seat. Our elevator specialists are available to help you review all available models and options to choose the best pneumatic vacuum elevator for your home. Call today to schedule a free in-home estimate or if you have any questions.

The post Product Spotlight: PVE Pneumatic Vacuum Elevators appeared first on HomeLift Mobility.

A wheelchair ramp is a sloped surface that allows a person in a wheelchair to access a higher or lower level. Ramps are typically less expensive than chair lifts and can be used by any individuals who have difficulty climbing stairs in addition to wheelchair users.

On the other hand, a chair lift, also known as a vertical platform lift or wheelchair lift, is a motorized device that lifts a person, typically in a wheelchair, between levels. Chair lifts are typically more expensive than ramps but may be a better option for individuals who would have difficulty pushing themselves up a ramp.

Consider the following factors when deciding between a ramp or a wheelchair lift:

1. Budget: Ramps are generally less expensive than chair lifts, but the cost will depend on the length and materials used.
2. Space: Ramps require more space than chair lifts, so you will need to consider the available space in your home or building. A wheelchair lift may be overkill if the user only needs to ascend a few feet. The more distance between levels, the steeper the ramp, and the more difficult for users to negotiate.
3. Mobility needs: Consider your mobility needs and the type of assistance you require. If you can easily negotiate a ramp, that should be sufficient, but if your mobility needs are more extensive, a wheelchair lift is a more reliable option.
4. Safety: Both ramps and chair lifts should be installed with safety in mind. Consider the safety features of each option and ensure that the installation meets all necessary safety standards. That said, wheelchair lifts have mechanical safeguards that ramps can’t offer.

Ultimately, the decision between a wheelchair ramp or a chair lift will depend on your specific circumstances. It may be helpful to consult with a professional to evaluate your home or building and provide recommendations based on your needs and budget. With Symmetry and Bruno being our main trusted wheelchair lift providers, we have several models for you to choose from. All models come with a 750 lb. lifting capacity and several customization options. Call today for a free, in-home estimate with one of our wheelchair lift specialists to help you decide which lift will best suit your needs.

The post Wheelchair Ramps vs. Chair Lifts appeared first on HomeLift Mobility.

Straight vs. Curved Staircases

Straight stairlifts are less expensive than curved stairlifts for both equipment and installation costs. Curved stairlifts require a much greater degree of customization. Prices for curved stairlifts are usually $9,000 to $15,000, whereas straight stairlifts typically cost $3,000 to $6,000.

Staircase Size

The longer the length of the stairs, the more track needs to be purchased and installed, and the higher the cost. If there are landings on your straight staircase, expect to see prices more in line with a curved stairlift. Some straight stair lift tracks can accommodate up to 70 feet, but anything longer can add $50 to $75 per linear foot. If your staircase is particularly narrow, you may need a more specialized stairlift that may cost more (check out our full guide to stairlifts for narrow staircases for specific recommendations).

Outdoor Stairlift Costs

Outdoor stairlifts require more robust materials to withstand extreme temperatures, rain, snow, dirt, and grime and still work correctly. Installation can also be more difficult depending on the material of the outdoor stairs and the availability of electrical wiring. Depending on the length, installing a stairlift outside can range from $2,000 to $10,000.

Stairlift Installation & Labor

Installation costs can run between $1,000 and $5,000 for many stairlift models. If you have a standard, straight staircase, the installation will generally be easy on your pocketbook, but prices can be higher if the stairs are steeper than average or if the lift is installed on outdoor steps made of harder materials like stone. Occasionally, modifications to the home need to be made to accommodate the stairlift, which can raise the installation price. For example, installing wiring can cost between $600 and $2,200, building a new wall can run from $1,000 to $2,700, repairing drywall is $300 to $800, and replacing or upgrading an electrical panel can range from $600 to $1,800. If you choose to purchase a stairlift from HomeLift, we offer free in-home estimates so you can be sure of exactly how much a stairlift would cost to install in your home.

Type of Seat

Many stairlifts have different seat options, and whether you choose a standard seat or require a special type can affect the cost. The seat you choose will also affect how much space the lift takes up on the stairway and how comfortable it is to ride.

• Collapsible seat stairlifts are among the most popular styles of lift seating. The seat (and often the footrests and armrests) folds up to save space when not in use. This is an excellent option for those with a narrow staircase or who want to reduce the overall stairlift footprint.
• Perch seats are one of the newest types of stairlift seating. They save space by allowing the user to lean against the seat in a partially standing position while riding up and down the stairs. While these are not made for people with significant mobility or balance issues, this type of stairlift seat takes up considerably less room than a standard seat. It could allow a stairlift to be installed where one otherwise wouldn’t fit.
• Swivel seats pivot at the bottom or top of the stairs to allow the user to exit the lift without twisting. The swivel mechanism locks while traveling between floors. Some high-end models have a powered swivel that turns the chair automatically, and others must be rotated by the user.
• Angled seat lift chairs tilt backward slightly so the user feels more stable while using the lift. These are a great choice for those with significant mobility issues.

Power Source

Stairlifts can be battery-powered or connected to an electrical outlet. Battery-operated stairlifts have the advantage of working during a power outage but some plugged-in models have a battery backup for when the power goes out. Plugged-in stairlifts will cost more upfront if they require electrical wiring work, they cost more in electricity to run, but they don’t require as much maintenance as a battery-operated lift. Battery-operated stairlifts need regular battery health checks.

Customizations & Add-Ons

Custom add-ons to a stairlift will increase the overall price. Some brands have almost endless aesthetic customization options that will allow you to design a stairlift that blends perfectly into the style and décor of your home. You may need custom functionality for your exact mobility needs. This could mean a certain style of seat or footrest. Stairlifts can typically handle users up to 250-300 pounds, but a specialty lift may be needed for those who use wheelchairs or weigh over 300 pounds. Those can start at $5,000 and range up to $20,000 for lifts that can support over 400 pounds.

Stairlift Service & Maintenance

Preventative maintenance checks have been shown to extend the life of the equipment and reduce the cost and frequency of repairs. We recommend scheduling preventative maintenance checks every 12 months to avoid preventable issues from happening with your equipment. We pride ourselves on installing reliable equipment but in the unlikely event that your stairlift malfunctions, we have a team of knowledgeable service technicians ready to assist. In the event your equipment malfunctions outside of normal business hours, we have an on-call service technician dedicated to emergency situations. You can visit our Service and Maintenance page for more information.

Renting a Stairlift vs. Buying

We do not offer stairlift rental, but if you or a family member need a stairlift for a limited period while recovering from surgery or an injury, renting a lift is an option. The cost to rent a stairlift generally runs from $300 to $500 per month, not including installation or removal fees. Many stairlift companies require a minimum 3-month rental agreement. Keep in mind that the installation fee can run from $400 to $700, removal can cost between $300 and $600, a refundable deposit ranges from $500 to $1,000, and the 3-month rental averages between $900 and $1,500. We’ve found that renting stairlifts rarely works out to the customer’s benefit.

Pre-Owned Stairlift Cost

We offer a limited selection of pre-owned stairlifts. This does tend to be a somewhat limited option as we only carry a few used stairlifts at a time, but for those who need them, our used stairlifts can be a great option. The overall price can vary depending on the brand, model, and type, but average savings can range from $500 to $1,500 off the cost of a new stairlift.

Financing Options

We never want finances to prevent someone from receiving equipment that could improve their quality of life, so we’ve made financing available for stairlifts through our partnership with LightStream. LightStream offers low-interest loans for installations of stairlifts, home elevators, wheelchair lifts, and other home improvement projects to people nationwide.

They provide:

• Financing from $5,000 to $100,000
• Competitive fixed rates
• No home-equity requirements
• No fees or prepayment penalties
• A simple online loan process

Is it worth it?

Only you can decide if the cost of installing a stairlift is worth it for your needs. Improving mobility can allow people to live independently and safely without having to move to a single-story home, assisted living, or a nursing home. Genworth’s most recent cost of care study puts the national average cost of a private room in a nursing home at $9,034 per month and assisted living at $4,500 per month. The entire cost of installing a stairlift in your home could be less than one month in a facility. What is staying in your home worth to you or your loved one? If you decide you’d like to look into getting a stairlift installed in your home, contact us to arrange a free in-home estimate. Our experts can guide you through this process and ensure you receive the ideal stairlift for your home and your needs.

The post How Much Does a Stairlift Cost? Our Complete Guide to Stairlift Options & Pricing appeared first on HomeLift Mobility.

Does Medicare Cover Stairlifts?

It is yet to be seen if the new plan will cover stairlifts, but it is not looking likely. Previous Medicare plans included coverage for durable medical equipment, such as wheelchairs and walkers, but stairlifts were not usually covered under those benefits. According to the Medicare website, “Medicaid may get assistance paying for a stair lift through Home and Community Based Services. If you have a temporary need for a stair lift, you may be able to rent the equipment.” But, considering all of the other financial benefits and safety nets included in the new healthcare plan, being able to afford a stairlift and age in place is substantially more accessible for all Americans even if medicare does not directly cover stairlifts. If you do end up purchasing a stairlift, you may be able to write it off of your taxes.

What will happen with prescription drugs?

There are a few major changes to the insurance system that could change the way consumers interact with prescription medication. There is a law that bars Medicare negotiating with drug manufacturers to lower prices for their consumers. Repealing the exception will allow for more accessible, life saving medicine. Another effort to increase the supply of prescription drugs that has been proposed in the new healthcare plan is to allow consumers to buy prescription drugs from other countries, as long as the Department of Health and Human Services has certified that those drugs are safe.

Can I age in place with Medicare?

Yes! Protecting and supporting older Americans is one of the primary focuses of the new proposed healthcare plan. One of the most critical proposals for older Americans is the incentives placed on long term and community based care.

More than half of all individuals in nursing homes are on Medicaid, and part of the proposed health care plan would be to give more flexibility to patients and allow them to choose home and community based care. As an extension to this, there is also a proposed tax break to any long term, informal caregiver. Any family member or loved one who spends a significant amount of time caring for their older loved one is eligible for up to a $5,000 tax credit. Another way the proposed health care plan looks out for older Americans and their caregivers is enacting the Caregiver Advise, Record, Enable (CARE) Act. This act is endorsed by the AARP and will ensure hospitals equip caregivers with instructions and information when their loved ones are discharged.

How will Social Security change?

Social Security is one of our nation’s great public policy successes, in large part due to the fact that participation in the program is shared across almost all workers. The proposed healthcare plan aims to provide a higher benefit for the oldest Americans. At advanced ages, Americans become more vulnerable to exhausting their savings, sometimes falling into poverty and living a life of hardship. The Biden Plan will provide the oldest beneficiaries – those who have been receiving retirement benefits for at least 20 years – with a higher monthly check to help protect retirees from the pain of dwindling retirement savings.

The proposed healthcare plan also has explicit protections from widows and widowers. The proposed healthcare plan will allow surviving spouse to keep a higher share of Social Security benefits. This will make an appreciable difference in the finances of older Americans, especially women (who live longer on average than men), raising the monthly payment by about 20% for affected beneficiaries.

HomeLift is here to support you in your home mobility journey. If you need assistance with getting around your home so you can age in place, contact HomeLift today.

The post “Does Medicare Cover Stairlifts” & Other Questions About the New Healthcare Plan appeared first on HomeLift Mobility.

Inclinator Cable Drum 500#

Number five in our list of best home elevators is the Inclinator Cable Drum 500#. Inclinator is the oldest Home Mobility Solutions company in the country and created the original design for the electric stairlift. Inclinator offers dozens of ways to customize your in-home elevator, including cab sizes, drive systems, and various cosmetic options. You can even add a telephone in your Inclinator elevator! This in-home elevator can be installed into an existing home, or it can be seamlessly added into construction plans for a new home, but either way, the Cable Drum 500# requires a shaft. The endless options to customize your Inclinator elevator make it easy to seamlessly blend the elevator into your home décor.

The Inclinator Cable Drum 500# is a perfect option for people who want a conventional elevator but don’t have enough space in their homes for one. The Cable Drum 500# has a footprint of only 12 sq ft. and features a patented monorail system that is designed to be as space efficient as possible, as well as a self-diagnostic microprocessor to let you know if any issues arise with your elevator. This system can also be installed either inside your home or in an external shaft added to the outside of your home.

Stiltz Trio Alta

Our number four pick for best home elevators on the market is the Stiltz Trio Alta. This model is one of the most popular elevators that HomeLift installs, and it’s not hard to see why! The Stiltz Trio Alta looks like something off of the Star Trek Enterprise. The Trio Alta is a “shaftless” elevator, so it has a uniquely designed, self-supporting structure that uses two parallel, vertical rails that support the entire load of the lift. The elevator’s motor is contained and concealed seamlessly on top of the elevator cab, removing any need for an external machine room. This futuristic design, in conjunction with the fact that the Trio Alta does not require much electricity, keeps this elevator as one of the quietest in the market. The design for the Trio Alta allows for quick installation and an elevator that can fit almost anywhere in your home.

Stiltz Trio Alta is a great elevator for almost any home environment. It is compact, with a footprint of about 13.5 square feet, but still has enough space to accommodate a wheelchair comfortably. The modular design for the Trio Alta allows for installations that can be completed in as little as a single day, and this model can fit almost anywhere in your home. The Trio Alta also comes standard with two remote controls that can be used to operate the elevator, allowing you to call it, send it away, or even use it to help move furniture between floors.

Cibes Symmetry Inline Gear Drive

Our number three pick for the best home elevator is the Symmetry Inline Gear Drive elevator. This elevator is unique because it does not require a machine room, which is a good option for homeowners who have limited space in their homes. While The Inline Gear Drive Elevator doesn’t come with the need for a machine room, it does include all of Symmetry’s standard “exclusive” features, such as emergency battery-operated lowering and energy-efficient LED lighting. The Cibes Symmetry Inline Gear Drive elevator provides a spacious and luxurious car for you to travel around your home in style, with the convenience of being able to install it wherever you want.

Cambridge Heritage

The second best home elevator on the market is the Cambridge Heritage. This is one of the stealthiest home elevators on the market. With the endless ways to customize this elevator in conjunction with its near-silent hydraulic drive, this elevator is so discrete you could almost forget you even have one! The Heritage is designed to look like an intentional feature in your home, but hiding behind what may look like a closet door is actually a state-of-the-art home elevator.

The most interesting feature that comes included with the Heritage Cambridge elevator is its Remote Monitoring System. This unique feature monitors the functionality of your elevator system and alerts both you and HomeLift to any issue that your elevator may have. This makes it much easier to stay on top of preventative maintenance and, in the long run, can save you thousands of dollars in repair costs down the road.

Cibes Symmetry Hydraulic

Coming in at our number one spot for best home elevators is the Cibes Symmetry Hydraulic Elevator. Symmetry boasts that their elevators are “the most customizable on the market,” and as far as we can tell, it’s true! Symmetry allows you to customize everything from the panel styles to the operation panels and even the metals used in the handrails. The Symmetry Hydraulic elevator offers a wonderful balance of quality, safety, and quiet operation. They also come equipped with emergency, battery-operated lowering, and they can accommodate up to six stops within fifty feet of travel. They are equipped to handle up to one thousand pounds. These elevators offer a three-year warranty for parts, travel at 40 feet per minute, and have a carrying capacity of 1000 lbs.

We have decided to rank the Symmetry Hydraulic at number one and the Symmetry Inline at number three on our list for a couple of reasons. While the Inline is very space-efficient, its Hydraulic counterpart is substantially quieter. For those who are sensitive to background noise, having the hydraulic drive can make owning a home elevator a more pleasant experience. They are priced similarly, which makes the hydraulic elevator the more favorable choice if all other factors are the same.

Home elevators can be an elegant solution to the challenges that come with impaired mobility. Choosing the right elevator can make navigating your home an enjoyable, luxurious experience. If you’re interested in installing any of these elevators in your own home, or if you have questions on what would be the right elevator for you, give us a call, and one of our team members will be delighted to help you.

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