How do I, as a renter, help a caregiver install a chair lift for a 2nd floor living quarters?

I would check with Medicare first and tell them your story. Also the department of aging might be able to guide you. The chair lift might be covered for your renter under medicaid or medicare. Also if this renter definitely needs the item, their physician might also be able to prescribe the chair at no cost. Just a couple different avenues to check out.

I read this question differently than did Italianbabs: but I am not sure if either of us is reading it correctly. It sounds like the writer is the renter, and wants to know about the cost of installing a chair lift. I think the answer might depend on whether the lift is for you or the owner/landlord, and what assistance there is in place for either of you. But I think the real underlying question might be "do I get paid back for helping once I move out?" The answer to "do I get paid back" would lie in what you can agree to with the landlord, and then get in writing, notarized. If, for example, you both agree that you'll be paid back when you move, and the landlord dies, you will want that agreement recorded so the estate will, in fact, pay you back. I think you need to take this up with the landlord directly.

Please make your question more clear. You can see from the 2 answers so far that at least one of the writers misunderstands the question. Personally, I was so confused that, although I had some ideas, I decided that I could not make a suggestion because I did not understand the question.

Sorry for the confusion. I am indeed the land lord; renting to an elderly tennant. I was thinkinking along the same line as italianbabs. I'll have my tennant and caregiver inquire to Medicaid/Dept on Aging. Thank all of you for your responses.

HI GUYS!

In the end, it's about the $. This site might help clear things up a bit:

What struck me with your words is "2nd floor". I don't think you meant a recliner type lift chair, but one that transfers a person up a flight of steps. I hope Medicaid/Dept on Aging can point you in the direction of the help you need.

You're exactly right windytown. Do you have a link to Medicaid/Dept on Aging in the Milw WI area?
Thanks,
Mr Peter

From a quick internet search, it looks like you could start here: http://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/aging/contacts/aging_offices/milwaukee.htm
Best of luck to you Mr Peter!

I install stair lifts for patients / customers in Virginia and this is a frequently asked question. First off. Medicare will not pay for a stair-Lift. Medicare considers it a convenience........Not a medical necessity. On the other hand the Dept of Aging of your state may have a program for the elderly that it may be considered a medical necessity and funding may be available. In most of the situations the funding is scarce and most often not available at all. You may have to look into alternate funding sources. There are lending companies that often will finance this kind of assistive device. If it is paid for in a agreed time table there will be interest free loans. Most programs are based on medical necessity and ability to pay. Some secondary insurance companies will pay for their insured/ beneficiary. Usually retires's that retired from larger companies like Tri Care for Life, Railroad retirees Telephone company retirees etc. In that case you need to align yourself with a installer / provider that will do the billing for you. Good luck on that on too. As far as I know I am the only one that does that in the state of Virginia. Perhaps you can find a reputable stair lift company in your state that will bill the insurance for you and help you through the process. Be sure to do your leg work in advance. If you order and install the lift before you get your Dr. orders and documentation you will have shot yourself in the foot. Get all that stuff together before you order / install anything. Another reason to align yourself with a reputable Medical Equipment company that does this kind of thing for a living.