Learn How to Get the Best Free and Low Cost Medical Equipment for Seniors

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 medical equipment 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 regular home supplies and aids in order to continue their daily activities. This can become a challenge as the cost of medical equipment rises.

A Wide Variety of Tools

A health care professional suggests tools for the elderly. There are plenty of basic personal needs that range in purpose and in use. Medical equipment 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 provides 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 get 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 insurance or other programs do not cover them. The cost of gloves, injection needles and blood testing strips can add up quickly. Therefore, some hospitals have medical supplies that are given on a donation basis. 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.

Medical Equipment Veteran’s Benefits

A resource for obtaining medical equipment 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 medical equipment is another great way to 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.