When it comes to health and wellness, many older adults consider the addition of a swimming pool to their home as a beneficial investment. Swimming is widely recognized as an excellent low-impact exercise, especially suitable for seniors managing chronic pain, arthritis, or mobility issues. However, the cost of installing a swimming pool—whether in-ground, above-ground, or a smaller therapy pool—can be substantial, often ranging from $20,000 to over $100,000 depending on the type and specifications. That naturally leads to the question: Will Medicare pay for a pool?
In this article, we will thoroughly explore whether Medicare—America’s federal health insurance program for people aged 65 and older, as well as certain younger individuals with disabilities—covers the installation or purchase of a swimming pool. We’ll examine the policy guidelines, circumstances under which coverage might apply (if any), and alternative ways to finance home modifications like pools that support health and independence.
Understanding What Medicare Covers
Before diving into specific coverage details regarding swimming pools, it’s essential to understand what kind of care and services Medicare typically covers.
Medicare is divided into several parts:
- Medicare Part A – Hospital insurance
- Medicare Part B – Medical insurance for outpatient services
- Medicare Part C – Medicare Advantage plans offered by private companies
- Medicare Part D – Prescription drug coverage
Each of these parts provides different benefits, but in the context of home modifications or recreational additions like swimming pools, Medicare typically does not offer direct coverage unless the modification is classified as “medically necessary.”
Medically Necessary Equipment and Durable Medical Equipment (DME)
One of the main categories under Part B is Durable Medical Equipment (DME), which includes items like wheelchairs, walkers, oxygen equipment, and hospital beds. For equipment to qualify for coverage, it must meet several criteria:
- It must be able to withstand repeated use
- It must be useful for a medical condition
- It must generally be not useful to someone who is not sick or injured
- It must typically be used in the home
While pools can provide therapeutic benefits, they are generally viewed as home improvements rather than durable medical equipment, even if used for rehabilitation or fitness.
When Might Medicare Pay for Pool-Related Services?
Although Medicare will usually not cover the installation of a pool at a private residence, there are some indirect ways Medicare might support the use of pools for health reasons.
Physical Therapy Services Using Pools
Physical therapy is a service that Medicare does cover under certain conditions, and that can include hydrotherapy or water-based therapy. If a physician prescribes physical therapy as part of a treatment plan for a medical condition such as:
- Post-surgery rehabilitation
- Chronic pain (e.g., from arthritis or fibromyalgia)
- Orthopedic injuries or joint issues
Then the cost of the therapy sessions themselves, which may take place in a pool at a therapy center, can be covered by Medicare.
But here’s the catch: While the therapy may be covered, the cost of installing a pool at home is not eligible under this benefit. The services provided in the water—if conducted in a clinic—might qualify, but not the construction of a private therapeutic pool at your home.
Home Health Care with Physical Therapy
If you are receiving Medicare-certified home health care and a home health aide or physical therapist visits your home to provide services, hydrotherapy is only covered if it is feasible using conventional home equipment (like whirlpool tubs or hot tubs, which have different coverage criteria we’ll explore shortly).
Your physical therapist cannot perform hydrotherapy in your pool unless they have access to your pool and unless all other Medicare home health conditions are met—none of which include funding for pool installation.
Medicare Advantage Plans and Additional Coverage
Some beneficiaries are enrolled in Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans offered through private insurers, which must cover everything original Medicare covers but may offer additional benefits like dental, vision, and wellness programs.
However, very few Advantage plans or supplemental insurance policies cover the installation of swimming pools or home modifications unless they have been tailored for individuals with severe disabilities or who are receiving long-term care benefits—most often through Medicaid or Veterans Affairs.
Wellness Programs in Medicare Advantage
Some Medicare Advantage plans include fitness or wellness benefits, such as free access to community gyms or SilverSneakers memberships, which may include pool access at local facilities. These can be great alternatives to private pools, but again, don’t pay for installation.
Does Medicare Cover Hot Tubs or Whirlpool Baths?
This is one of the most frequently related questions: Does Medicare cover hot tubs or whirlpools? While they are more compact and may be used for pain relief, the answer still largely depends on medical necessity.
Similar to swimming pools, a whirlpool bath or hot tub is considered a luxury home fixture, rather than a medical necessity, even when used for therapeutic applications.
However, in rare cases, if your doctor prescribes a whirlpool bath for specific wound care or treatments that cannot be conducted through other covered medical devices, and it is considered durable medical equipment, there may be a pathway to receive coverage.
To qualify:
- It must be prescribed by a doctor as medically necessary
- The prescription must explain how the whirlpool bath aids in treating a specific medical condition
- The item must be listed as a DME item covered by Medicare
But as of now, there is no standard Medicare DME list that includes whirlpool tubs or hot tub spas. So, Medicare generally does not cover hot tubs or whirlpool baths unless they serve a unique and highly specified medical role, which is rare.
Medicaid and State Variations
While Medicare alone is unlikely to pay for a swimming pool, Medicaid (the joint federal and state program for people with limited income and resources) sometimes offers different options.
Some states have home and community-based services (HCBS) waivers or programs through Medicaid that allow for home modifications. The availability of funds for pool installation would depend on the specific program, your medical needs, eligibility criteria, and how the modification supports your health and independence.
However, it’s still uncommon for Medicaid to cover a full in-ground or above-ground pool. Instead, they might consider:
- Grab bars
- Ramps
- Walk-in showers
To explore this option:
Steps to Check Medicaid for Pool Coverage:
- Review your state Medicaid office website or contact them directly
- Ask about HCBS Waivers or Independent Living Programs
- Speak with a Medicaid planner or local aging and disability resource center
Veterans Affairs (VA) and Pool Installations
Another important consideration for certain seniors or eligible individuals is the Veterans Affairs (VA) programs. If you are a veteran or the surviving spouse of a veteran, you may qualify for home modification grants that could potentially cover swimming pools if they are for medical rehabilitation.
The VA offers two primary grants for home modifications:
- Specially Adapted Housing Grant (SAH)
- Special Home Adaptation Grant (SHA)
These grants help veterans with specific service-connected disabilities build or modify their homes to accommodate their disabilities.
Eligibility for SAH and SHA Programs
To qualify for SAH, veterans must have service-connected disabilities that meet specific criteria, such as:
- Loss of use of the lower extremities requiring a wheelchair
- Blindness in both eyes with 5/200 visual acuity or less
- Loss of use of one or both arms to such a degree that precludes locomotion without the aid of braces, crutches, or prosthetics
Pools might be included in rare cases where pool-based therapy is crucial to rehabilitating a VA-eligible condition. However, approval typically hinges on the professional recommendation of a VA doctor and may require significant documentation.
Possible Alternatives and Financial Strategies
If Medicare won’t pay for a pool, and Medicaid and VA are not viable options, there are still several financial options and alternatives worth exploring for seniors who want to incorporate pool access into their lifestyle for medical or wellness reasons.
Community or Therapeutic Pools
One cost-effective and practical route is to access an existing therapeutic or public pool.
Many community centers, YMCAs, and senior centers offer:
- Low-cost or free pool access for seniors
- Aqua fitness classes
- Water therapy sessions
Some Medicare Advantage plans provide coverage for fitness memberships that include pools, so it’s worth checking with your plan for eligibility.
Personal Pools: Home Equity, Loans, and Grants
If your physician supports pool therapy for a chronic condition and you are set on a private pool, you may need to finance the installation privately.
Potential methods include:
- Home equity loans or lines of credit that tap into the value of your home
- Medical improvement tax deductions if the pool is classified as a medical necessity
- Private grants or fundraising through community support or senior wellness organizations
It’s worth noting that claiming medical tax deductions for pools usually requires a clear physician’s statement and can only be taken if the pool is not for general use but for a diagnosed condition. Consult a tax professional to explore if you’d qualify.
How to Document Medical Necessity for a Pool
Even though the odds are very low, if you’re determined to seek insurance or third-party assistance for a pool, proper documentation and medical justification can be crucial.
The following steps are recommended:
- Consult a physician or rehabilitation specialist who understands your medical needs and can support your case
- Obtain a written prescription detailing the therapeutic purpose of the pool and how regular swimming or hydrotherapy contributes to your treatment
- Compile supporting documentation such as imaging results, diagnosis histories, or physical therapy notes that emphasize the necessity of aquatic therapy
- Research insurance options beyond Medicare, including supplemental insurance plans, HMOs, PPOs, or veterans and state programs to see if any provide coverage
This documentation might not secure coverage under Medicare, but it can help when applying for community grants or exploring tax deductions.
Common Misconceptions About Medicare and Pools
There are several myths that can confuse seniors searching for coverage:
Misconception 1: “If my doctor prescribes swimming, Medicare will cover the pool.”
Reality: Medicare covers treatments, therapies, and services—not home installations.
Misconception 2: “Medicare Advantage plans pay for wellness home modifications like pools.”
Reality: While some plans include fitness memberships, none typically cover private pool installation.
Misconception 3: “Medicare covers whirlpool baths like pool installations.”
Reality: Whirlpool baths follow the same rules—coverage only under exceptional and very specific DME standards.
Conclusion: Does Medicare Pay for a Pool?
In summary, Medicare does not pay for swimming pools—whether used for recreation or rehabilitation—installed in private homes. While hydrotherapy and water-based physical therapy are covered when practiced in health care facilities or doctor-prescribed settings, the installation of a home pool does not qualify as durable medical equipment under current Medicare rules.
While there are limited exceptions for veterans through the VA and potentially some Medicaid waivers by state, most seniors will need to explore alternative solutions such as community pools, wellness memberships, or private funding through home equity or tax deductions.
Ultimately, the decision to install a pool should weigh medical benefits, financial feasibility, and lifestyle preferences. If your health condition can benefit from aquatic therapy but funding through insurance or government programs isn’t an option, investing in a monthly membership or visiting local therapeutic centers may offer a more affordable path to wellness.
Final Takeaway
If you or a loved one is considering a pool for therapeutic use, consult your doctor for formal recommendations, explore all insurance options carefully, and plan for the installation as a personal investment in long-term health. While Medicare will not pay for a pool, maintaining mobility, health, and independence at home is always a worthy goal—whether you swim or not.
Additional Resources
For More Information:
| Resource | Description | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Medicare.gov | Official Medicare website for eligibility and coverage details | www.medicare.gov |
| Medicaid.gov | Information about Medicaid coverage and state programs | www.medicaid.gov |
| Vets.gov | Detailed info about VA programs and funding options | www.va.gov |
Does Medicare cover the cost of installing a swimming pool?
Medicare typically does not cover the installation of a swimming pool, as it is considered a home modification and not a medically necessary piece of equipment. Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) focuses on covering services like hospital stays, physician visits, and durable medical equipment (DME) that is essential for treating a medical condition at home. A swimming pool, even if recommended by a physician for exercise or therapy purposes, does not fall into the category of DME, which includes items like wheelchairs, hospital beds, and oxygen equipment.
However, there may be exceptions if the pool is deemed necessary for a specific medical treatment and prescribed by a doctor. In such cases, you can appeal to Medicare for special consideration, though approval is rare. Some Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) may offer additional benefits, so it’s worth contacting your plan provider directly to inquire about any supplemental coverage they offer for wellness-related home installations.
Can I get Medicare reimbursement for pool-related therapy sessions?
If you receive therapeutic services in a pool setting—such as aquatic therapy or hydrotherapy—these may be covered by Medicare if they are considered medically necessary and are performed by a qualified therapist. Medicare Part B covers outpatient physical therapy, including aquatic therapy, when ordered by a doctor and provided by a Medicare-approved facility. These services must align with a treatment plan aimed at managing or improving a diagnosed condition.
Aquatic therapy is not automatically seen as a luxury service, but its coverage depends on the purpose and setting. For example, therapy conducted in a clinical pool facility that is part of a structured rehabilitation plan can be covered. However, general swimming or use of a private pool for exercise without a formal therapy plan would not be eligible for reimbursement under Medicare.
Will Medicare cover above-ground or portable pools for therapeutic use?
Medicare usually doesn’t cover above-ground or portable pools, even if they are marketed for therapeutic or rehabilitative purposes. These pools are still considered home amenities rather than durable medical equipment. The distinction is important because Medicare only pays for equipment that is essential for treating a medical condition and must be appropriate for use in the home without requiring significant structural changes or installation.
You might consider using a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), Health Savings Account (HSA), or long-term care insurance to help pay for a portable pool if your physician certifies that it’s necessary for your health. Always consult with your Medicare provider or plan representative before purchasing such items to understand available options for support or reimbursement.
Are there any Medicare Advantage plans that cover the cost of a pool?
While Original Medicare does not cover swimming pools, some Medicare Advantage plans may offer additional benefits that could include wellness-related items or services. A few plans might provide coverage for fitness programs, gym memberships, or home-based wellness perks. It’s rare, but a small number of plans might contribute toward the cost of a pool or pool-related therapy if it supports a member’s health and wellness goals, particularly for chronic condition management.
Enrollees should carefully review the Evidence of Coverage (EOC) provided by their Medicare Advantage plan each year to see if any such benefits are included. Contacting plan customer service or consulting with a licensed insurance agent can also help determine whether the plan offers any financial assistance or incentives related to pools or aquatic therapy.
How can I justify a pool as medically necessary to get Medicare coverage?
To justify a pool as medically necessary, you must work with a physician or specialist who can document how the pool is essential in treating or managing a specific medical condition. The doctor must provide a clear treatment plan, detailing how pool-based therapy or access contributes to your medical care, such as rehabilitation after surgery, chronic pain management, or mobility improvement for neuromuscular conditions.
Even with documentation, approval for Medicare coverage will depend on whether the item qualifies as durable medical equipment and meets Medicare’s strict coverage criteria. The doctor’s prescription and supporting medical records could be submitted with an appeal or prior authorization request. However, because pools are considered home modifications, coverage remains unlikely unless the pool is specifically required for the effective use of approved medical equipment.
What alternatives are there if Medicare won’t cover a pool?
If Medicare will not cover a pool, alternatives for accessing pool therapy can include Medicare-covered physical therapy offered at clinics or outpatient centers that have pools on-site. These facilities are often equipped to provide aquatic therapy that is reimbursable under Part B as long as it is medically necessary and follows a physician-approved treatment plan.
Another option is to use community resources such as local YMCAs or wellness centers that offer low-cost aquatic therapy programs, some of which are designed specifically for seniors. Also, some Medicare Advantage and supplemental insurance plans may provide access to fitness and pool programs as part of their wellness benefits. You can also explore out-of-pocket payment for pool access or private therapy sessions in a pool environment.
Can a swimming pool be considered durable medical equipment (DME) for Medicare purposes?
A swimming pool is generally not classified as durable medical equipment (DME) by Medicare. Durable medical equipment refers to items that are used repeatedly, have a lifetime of at least three years, and are used for a medical reason. Examples include wheelchairs, walkers, and nebulizers. Swimming pools, whether in-ground or portable, are typically viewed as home enhancements rather than medical necessities.
To be considered DME, a pool would need to be integral to treating a condition that can’t be effectively managed without it, and must meet other strict standards for DME classification, such as being appropriate for use in the home. Even with a doctor’s prescription, it’s unlikely Medicare would approve coverage due to the pool’s dual purpose as a wellness and recreational amenity, and the fact that alternatives (like clinic pools) generally exist for therapeutic use.