EQUIPMENT FOR SAFER, MORE INDEPENDENT LIVING
Medical Equipment & Supplies for Older Adults
Understand common equipment options, compare local suppliers and find practical products that may improve mobility, comfort and safety at home.
Help Me Find the Right EquipmentSTART WITH THE PERSON’S NEEDS
The right equipment can make everyday activities easier
Equipment needs can change after an illness, injury, hospital stay or gradual decline in mobility. Senior Needs Guide helps Maryland families understand the categories of support available and the questions to ask before choosing a product or supplier.
01
Mobility & Walking
Canes, walkers, rollators, wheelchairs, transport chairs, scooters and related mobility accessories.
02
Bathroom Safety
Shower chairs, transfer benches, raised toilet seats, commodes, grab bars and other bathing or toileting supports.
03
Beds & Transfers
Hospital beds, bed rails, lift chairs, patient lifts, transfer aids and pressure-relief surfaces.
04
Daily Living & Safety
Reachers, dressing aids, medication organizers, adaptive utensils, monitoring devices and other practical supplies.
PAYING FOR EQUIPMENT
Coverage depends on the item, medical need and supplier
Families should confirm benefits before ordering. Coverage rules differ by insurance plan and may require documentation, a prescription or use of an approved supplier.
Medicare and insurance
Some durable medical equipment may be covered when medically necessary and ordered by an authorized healthcare provider. Deductibles, coinsurance and supplier-network rules may apply.
Medicaid and assistance programs
Maryland Medicaid programs and community resources may help with certain equipment for eligible individuals. Benefits and authorization requirements vary.
Private payment
Many convenience, safety and household items are purchased directly. Ask for the full price, delivery or installation charges, warranty terms and return policy.
Renting equipment
Renting may make sense for short-term recovery, temporary needs or higher-cost equipment that requires maintenance.
Buying new equipment
Purchasing can be practical for long-term use, personalized items or products that are not eligible for rental.
Buying or borrowing used equipment
Confirm the item is clean, complete, undamaged and appropriate for the user. Certain equipment should be professionally inspected, fitted or installed.
RENT, BUY OR BORROW?
Choose based on safety, duration and total cost
The least expensive option is not always the best fit. Consider how long the equipment will be needed, who will maintain it and whether the user’s condition is likely to change.
BEFORE YOU ORDER
Questions to ask an equipment supplier
01 Is this item appropriate for the user’s height, weight and mobility level?
02 Is a prescription, evaluation or prior authorization required?
03 Does the supplier participate with the person’s insurance plan?
04 Are delivery, setup, fitting, training and repairs included?
05 What are the warranty, rental, replacement and return terms?
06 Who should the family contact if the equipment stops working?
Safety note: A healthcare professional or qualified specialist should evaluate items that affect walking, transfers, positioning, breathing or other medical needs. Senior Needs Guide provides general information and provider connections, not medical advice.
NEED HELP SORTING THROUGH THE OPTIONS?
Start with a clearer picture of what your family needs.
Complete the free Senior Needs Assessment for a personalized starting point and guidance on relevant services, equipment and resources.
Start My Free Senior Needs Assessment