Assistive equipment is any kind of tool or device that can make certain tasks easier, and the environment safer for those with disabilities and the frail elderly. Some examples:

· bathroom grab bars
· medications dispensers/reminder systems
· beds with special features that increase the person's ability to get in and out of bed
· assistive telephones (for hearing-impaired and sight-impaired persons)
· assistive stovetop burners (for sight-impaired persons)
· door alarms (for persons with dementia at risk for wandering)
· walkers and canes and wheelchairs
· entry ramps

Assistive equipment may be small and inexpensive…
(like an adjustable bed rail, a reacher, or a easy-to-grip kitchen utensils)

….or cost a little bit more,
(like a pocket talker, or portable ramp or a photo telephone),

….or it may involve more of an expense
(like a wheelchair, walker, or a TV Monitor to enlarge reading material).

Medicare and other health insurance pay only for Durable Medical Equipment.

Durable Medical Equipment is medical equipment that is ordered by a doctor for use in the home. These items must be reuseable, such as walkers, wheelchairs, or hospital beds. DME is paid for under Medicare Part B and Part A for home health services.
www.medicare.gov/Glossary/search.asp

But this just begins to describe the thousands of devices and other types of equipment that can help people cope well with a condition that might otherwise be disabling. Continue reading to learn how to find equipment for your situation.

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How do I find assistive equipment for my situation