The short version: A residential pool lift extends pool use for senior households where the user has mobility limits. Battery-powered (Pentair, S.R. Smith) is the consumer default at $1,500-$3,500. Add $300-$1,000 for deck anchor install.

When a pool lift makes sense

Senior households where:

  • Aquatic exercise was a long-time habit and continues to provide therapeutic benefit.
  • The user can’t safely use pool steps even with railings.
  • The pool is a primary backyard amenity.

For users who don’t actively use the pool, a pool lift isn’t worth the cost.

Two lift types

Battery-powered lifts

Self-contained, mounted on a deck anchor. Battery lifts the user from deck to water. Pentair Aquatrek2 and S.R. Smith aXs2 are the volume leaders. About $1,500-$3,500.

Hydraulic lifts

Use pool water pressure to power the lift cycle. More reliable long-term but require plumbing tie-in. About $3,000-$6,000.

Sizing and install

  • Anchor: most lifts mount to a deck anchor sleeve set into pool decking. New installs require concrete drilling and epoxy fitting. About $300-$1,000.
  • Capacity: most residential pool lifts rated 300-400 pounds.
  • Deck clearance: 24+ inches between pool edge and any obstacle (chairs, plants).

Coverage

Original Medicare and most Medicare Advantage plans don’t cover pool lifts. Medicaid HCBS waivers cover them in rare cases tied to documented medical need (e.g., physical therapy aquatic protocol).

What to do next

If you have a pool and the senior user actively uses it: get a quote from one battery and one hydraulic dealer.

For broader mobility strategy: see best stair lifts of 2026 and the aging-in-place pillar.