The lift chairs can cause a tremendous difference for seniors and those who have mobility challenges. These chairs are comfortable and safe to stand or sit on. When purchasing a lift chair, many people may wonder: Does Medicare cover lift chairs? It can assist in paying the cost of such chairs. 

Let’s first discuss who is eligible to receive a lift chair under Medicare. Besides, we will also explain how to obtain a lift chair, how much Medicare will cover, and suggestions on identifying the appropriate lift chair model. 

Who Qualifies for a Lift Chair under Medicare?

Not everyone is eligible for a lift chair with Medicare. Generally, Medicare covers lift chairs only when they are considered medically necessary. What does that mean? This implies that a lift chair should be certified by a doctor or a medical professional.

You may qualify if you:

• Experiencing a medical condition. That makes it hard or unsafe to use a normal chair 

• Recovering from surgery or an injury. And need extra support to prevent falls.

• I have had a mobility disability. For example, arthritis, Parkinson's, and muscle weakness.

Note:  Medicare usually covers lift chairs only when prescribed as durable medical equipment (DME). Chairs used solely for comfort or convenience generally do not qualify.

How to Get a Lift Chair with Medicare?

To receive a lift chair through Medicare, one has to follow a few steps:

Your physician will measure your mobility requirements and see whether or not a lift chair is needed medically.

In case it is necessary, your physician will provide a prescription for the lift chair you need.

The chair should be purchased by a Medicare-approved supplier. VOCIC offers several lift chairs that could qualify in the future, as the brand is actively working toward Medicare coverage.

Medicare can require your prescription and the medical notes.

When your supplier is approved, they will deliver the chair and install it, leaving it safe to use.

Follow these steps to make sure that you are not left waiting in line to get your lift chair.

How Much Will Medicare Pay Toward a Lift Chair?

Medicare typically covers 80% of the approved cost. You have to pay the remaining 20% ( unless you have supplemental insurance)

Here are some points to keep in mind:

• Medicare Part B usually covers durable medical equipment (including lift chairs)

• Your out-of-pocket costs can vary. It depends on the chair’s price and your location.

• Some insurance plans or Medicaid programs may cover more than Medicare.

• It is essential to consult with both your healthcare provider and supplier regarding pricing and insurance coverage before purchasing a lift chair.

Lift Chair Types and Features

Does Medicare cover lift chairs? Yes, it does. There are many types of lift chairs with a variety of features to satisfy particular requirements. The following are some of the popular choices:

Standard Lift Chair

It provides basic lift functionality to help users easily stand up from a seated position. This kind of lift chair is for everyday use. It’s simple to operate and budget-friendly.

Heavy-Duty Lift Chairs

Built with reinforced frames and a higher weight capacity, it is designed for larger users or those needing extra support. Offer stable lift and recline functions. This ensures long-term durability.

Wall Hugger Lift Chairs

Features a wall-hugging design that allows the chair to fully recline or achieve a semi-reclined position even when placed close to a wall. This design is great for small rooms. Yet it still provides easy lift assistance.

Portable and Waterproof Lift Chairs

Lightweight and easy to move, with waterproof materials for easy cleaning or outdoor use. Combine lift functionality with flexibility, suitable for spaces that require frequent repositioning.

Tips for Choosing the Right Lift Chair

There are too many different lift chairs to choose from. Here are some tips:

• Check weight capacity: Check the maximum weight capacity of the lift chair. It is important to make sure it matches the user. This is for safety and comfort considerations.

• Consider your space: If the user's daily activity space and routes are narrow, consider a more compact type of lift chair.

• Test comfort: The material of the seat and armrests is an important factor for comfort. Choosing the right type can give users a better experience.

• Safety features: For safety reasons, the lift chair must be strong yet flexible, and its fixing system must operate smoothly.

• Ease of use: Some lift chairs have many automatic functions, such as electric lift chairs. Choosing such a chair can make it more convenient for users to use.

What If I Don’t Have Medicare or Other Health Insurance?

Even when you are not covered with Medicare or any other medical insurance, you can directly purchase a lift chair. VOCIC has a variety of high-quality lift chairs, which can be bought without insurance. Investing in a lift chair from VOCIC provides independence and safety, even without insurance coverage.

MAIDeSITe JC35M3 Senior Electric Floor Chair Lift

MAIDeSITe JC35M3 helps to assist elderly people and caregivers in dealing with falls with self-confidence. This chair makes the process of lifting safe and easy. You can set it up quickly, and it has a lightweight frame.

This chair has a comfortable and safe design with a 330 lbs capacity and an adjustable backrest to get the correct posture position. The chair has six suction cups that hold it firmly, even in the bathroom. The waterproof design allows one to use it without any worries about dropping it into the water. The hand controller provided is smooth to control and, therefore, a sure solution to independence and peace of mind.

Features:

• Supports up to 330 lbs safely

• Assembled in 3 steps and folds flatly

• Lightweight (31 lbs) to easily move around

• Portable, cord-free, rechargeable battery

• Waterproof (IP68)- you can use it in wet conditions, such as bathrooms

• 6 suction cups to add additional stability to any floor

• Adjustable backrest to make it comfortable to use

• The hand controller is to be easily lifted

AX05 MAIDeSITe Heavy Duty Floor Lift Chair

The floor lift for elderly is a strong lift chair that can be used to simplify standing and movement in the elderly and individuals with mobility problems. It is sturdy and safe to lift to a wheelchair, bed, or sofa on the floor. It is foldable and easy to assemble, making it fit even in homes with a small space.

The most important aspect is comfort and safety. The chair is fitted with a soft leather seat, a high-density sponge cushion, an adjustable backrest, and two handrails as an additional security measure. The hand controller is easy to use, and safety belts and folding stabilizing legs will make the experience for the user and the caregiver.

Features:

• Supports up to 440 lbs for reliable lifting

• Portable design to save space

• High-density sponge, high-density soft PU leather seat

• Reclining seat and two handrails

• Hand controller to operate with ease

• Added security of the buckle seatbelt

• Easy and fast to assemble in three phases

FAQs

Will Medicare pay for a transport chair?

Yes, Medicare can pay for transport chairs when it is medically necessary and prescribed by a physician.

How do I get Medicare to pay for a lift chair?

You need a doctor’s prescription and proof of medical necessity. Besides, you must buy the chair from a Medicare-approved supplier.

How do you write a prescription for a lift chair?

The prescription must include your medical condition and the reason for the chair. Your doctor will write and sign it. So that Medicare recognizes it as medically necessary.

Final words

Hope you got the answer to the question, does Medicare cover lift chairs? Lift chairs can greatly improve the quality of life for people with mobility issues. Whether you have Medicare coverage or are purchasing directly from VOCIC, choose one according to your needs. The MAIDeSITe JC35M3 and AX05 models offer reliable solutions for different needs and spaces.