Maintaining and improving a good quality of life is the goal for the elderly and people with disabilities. It is important to choose the right supplies at the right price.
As people age, some move into nursing homes while others choose to remain at home with family members. Seniors normally purchase home supplies and aids in order to continue their daily activities. This can become a challenge as the cost of medical supplies rises.
A Wide Variety of Tools
A health care professional generally suggests tools for the elderly. There is a wide array of basic personal needs that range in purpose and in use. They are designed to help the elderly and the disabled to manage their lifestyle with greater ease.
Durable Medical Equipment
Medical equipment that is reusable and used for long-term provide a remedy to a patient in need. Having access to these tools becomes even more important when medically necessary. Seniors on a fixed budget can find it difficult to obtain specific supplies. Knowing where to get supplies will put your mind at ease.
Disposable Medical Supplies
Disposable products are convenient to use if needed daily. However, they might be expensive if they are not covered by insurance or other programs. The cost of gloves, injection needles and blood testing strips can add up quickly. Some hospitals have medical supplies that have been donated.In addition, Community Helping Hands is another resource to consider.
Medicare Pays Eighty Percent
Most seniors are on Medicare. If the supplies are necessary and if a patient qualifies for help from home, Medicare will cover about 80% of the costs. However, it does not cover hearing aids and adaptation products. Disposable supplies are occasionally covered for items such as diabetic testing supplies, feeding tubes and colostomy supplies.
Medicaid For Low Income
Medicaid covers a wide variety of durable supplies for those with limited income. You can apply for Medicaid through your local state agency. Medicaid doesn’t have strict limitations concerning the number of supplies needed. Furthermore, it tends to cover a larger portion of expenses, and often it covers all associated costs for qualifying suppliers.
Veteran’s Benefits
A resource for obtaining supplies at low or no cost is the Veterans Administration. Obviously, this is a government program provided for all veterans. You may be surprised at the benefits you are entitled to. Contact your local office and provide details of your needs. They will provide direction and support to you.
Donated Equipment
Donated equipment is another great source for medical supplies. Wheelchairs, walkers, commodes, and so on are often donated to local charities. Doctors, nurse practitioners can very often point you in the right direction. In additions ask a physical therapist or hospital discharge planner for advice. Also, most home care agencies have the expertise to assist seniors in determining what and which tool is suitable and where to obtain it.
Tracy Senior Association
A great source to obtain donated or used medical equipment is the Tracy Senior Association. Some of the items they provide include walkers, commodes and crutches. Additionally, they provide canes and shower seats. There is no cost at all to the receiver. You can reach them at (408) 569-8931 or (209) 815-1101.