Adaptive Living Decision Guide
What They Do
Provide grab bars, shower seats, and raised toilet seats to ease functionality in the bathroom
Provide medical supplies such as bandages, skin creams, and a wide variety of medical products
Special furniture can ease in sitting and standing as well, including features like massage, which increases circulation
Some companies can actually survey a home on-site, and make appropriate recommendations
Provide incontenience supplies, adaptive clothing, or stockings like elastic or diabetic
Feature a wide variety of mobilization equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers, to even in-home elevators
Coordinate with a variety of home adaptation specialists in providing products to modify a home and make it more accessible
Can make customized recommendations and work directly between contractors, physicians, physical therapists and families
Did You Know?
The bathroom is the most dangerous room in a house. More falls take place there than any other area
Throw and area rugs can be a dangerous contributing factor to falls. Make sure, if your senior loved one uses a walker or is uneasy on their feet, that these are immediately removed.
In many cases, you can schedule a free survey to have the home assessed.
Many senior centers and non profits give classes around the USA, as well as consult with your utility company. They usually provide checklists on what to look for in a home
"Cheaper" is not always better. Although there are varous types of online providers of supplies, they do not provide the personal service that is often warranted to find the right fit for your parents.
In many cases, Medicare or Medicaid will pay for the cost of adaptive equipment if prescribed by a doctor.
You are not alone on this journey
Your Decision Guide Checklist
Know Before You Call
Before contacting an Adaptive Living Provider, you should do a thorough survey of your senior loved ones' home. This includes:Check their ability to get around in their own home. Do they walk up/down stairs easily? How are they in sitting and standing on their present furniture?
Are they on special oxygen or other types of equipment? If so, is there a power source in place to run it if there is a power failure?
How are they navigating in the bathroom? Do they have enough room to move around with a walker or wheelchair?
What is their ability to dress and shower themselves?
Check to see if they have a good supply of first aid and personal care products. Seniors are more susceptable to many forms of accidents, and thus it is wise to be prepared for any sort of emergency that may arise.J
Consult with a physician to write prescriptions for appropriate items- so that Medicare can pay for these items.
Questions To Ask When Hiring
Are you a Medicare/Medicaid approved provider?
Do you provide a free consultation?
Will you work and consult with existing contractors and/or physicians
What is your delivery time? Do you keep items in stock or is there a delay while you order them?
Do you provide home delivery service?
