Free Medical Equipment for Seniors

A Practical Guide to Free Medical Equipment for Seniors in 2026

Last updated: January 06, 2026

If You Need Emergency Help

If you think you’re experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 right away (or your local emergency number).

If you need urgent medical equipment (for example, a walker, wheelchair, oxygen supplies, or a hospital bed) and you can’t wait for normal processing times, start here:

1) Ask the hospital team (fastest in many cases)

• Call the hospital social worker or discharge planner (especially if you were recently hospitalized). They often know the quickest local options and loan programs.

2) Contact your local aging services office

• Eldercare Locator / Area Agency on Aging (AAA): 1-800-677-1116
  This is a national U.S. service that connects you to your local AAA and other community resources.

3) Reach out to the Red Cross for disaster-related needs

• If your need is related to a disaster or emergency event (storm, flood, wildfire, evacuation), contact your local American Red Cross chapter for guidance and recovery support resources.
  Outside the U.S., contact your local Red Cross/Red Crescent organization.

4) Call your doctor’s office for time-sensitive prescriptions

• Many equipment sources (including some nonprofits and most insurers) will ask for a prescription or medical necessity note. If you need equipment immediately, your clinician can often send documentation the same day.

Emergency Financial or Practical Assistance:

If cost is the barrier, these services can help you find same-day local support:

• 211 (dial 2-1-1): Free, confidential information and referrals to local programs (available in many areas 24/7).
• The Salvation Army (local assistance varies): 1-800-SAL-ARMY (1-800-725-2769).
• Catholic Charities: Find your local chapter through the Catholic Charities USA directory (availability and services vary by location).

Key Takeaways

• Medicare Part B typically pays 80% of the Medicare-approved amount for covered durable medical equipment (DME) after you meet the 2026 Part B deductible ($283)—and you generally pay the remaining 20% coinsurance (unless you have supplemental coverage).
• Medicaid is a major safety-net for older adults, including LGBTQ+ seniors. At least 1.2 million LGBT older adults (65+) are enrolled in Medicaid, which can help fill gaps in Medicare coverage (exact equipment benefits depend on your state program).
• Nonprofit equipment reuse programs can be a fast route to free items. For example, FODAC reports providing over $15 million annually in equipment and services, and notes a $25 lifetime registration fee (availability and eligibility vary by location).
• Veterans may be able to receive medically necessary equipment at no cost through the VA, including via the Prosthetic & Sensory Aids Service (PSAS)—based on VA eligibility and clinical need.
• Equipment loan closets exist nationwide, but inventory is limited. It’s common to see waitlists, especially for high-demand items like hospital beds and power mobility devices.
• Rural and Tribal communities can face extra barriers (distance, fewer suppliers, shipping delays), but options may include State Assistive Technology (AT) Act programs and, for eligible American Indian/Alaska Native patients, Indian Health Service (IHS) Purchased/Referred Care (PRC) pathways through Tribal/IHS systems.

Understanding Medical Equipment Coverage in 2026

Getting the right medical equipment doesn’t have to drain your savings. Even with prices rising, several programs can help older adults access items like wheelchairs, hospital beds, oxygen equipment, and other essentials at low cost—or sometimes free.

Reality check: Many options have limited inventory, paperwork requirements, and waitlists. High-demand items like power wheelchairs and specialty beds often take the longest.

What Qualifies as “Medical Equipment” (DME)

In Medicare terms, most “medical equipment” falls under durable medical equipment (DME). To qualify as DME, an item generally must:

• Withstand repeated use
• Have an expected life of at least 3 years
• Be used primarily for a medical purpose
• Be appropriate for use at home
• Be ordered or supported by your clinician as medically necessary

Medicare also specifically includes items like hospital beds and wheelchairs as examples of DME used in the home.

Common Types of Equipment That May Qualify

These are common examples that are frequently covered under Medicare Part B when medically necessary and obtained through the right supplier:

• Wheelchairs (manual) and some power mobility devices
• Hospital beds and certain pressure-reducing mattresses
• Walkers, canes, crutches
• Oxygen equipment (including concentrators)
• CPAP machines (sleep apnea therapy equipment)
• Blood glucose monitors and some diabetes-related supplies
• Patient lifts and certain transfer devices (when criteria are met)

Tip: Coverage often depends on how the item is classified, why you need it, and whether you use a supplier that meets Medicare/plan rules.

What Usually Doesn’t Qualify (and Why)

Some items are commonly requested but are not typically covered by Original Medicare because they’re considered home modifications, installed safety items, or convenience/comfort products rather than DME:

• Home modifications (ramps, widened doorways, most structural changes)
• Installed safety equipment (grab bars, many permanent fixtures)
• Convenience/comfort items (even if they make life easier)
• Many over-the-counter items you can buy at a pharmacy without a prescription

Important nuance: Some Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans and Medicaid programs may offer extra benefits (including certain home safety supports), but those rules vary by plan and state.

Medicare and Medicaid Coverage (2026)

Medicare Part B (Durable Medical Equipment)

For most seniors, Medicare Part B is the main source of coverage for durable medical equipment (DME).

2026 costs (Original Medicare):

• Standard monthly Part B premium: $202.90
• Annual Part B deductible: $283
  After you meet the deductible, Medicare generally pays 80% of the Medicare-approved amount for covered DME, and you typically pay the remaining 20% coinsurance.

Requirements for Medicare coverage (what usually must be true)

• A clinician (doctor/NP/PA, depending on the item) documents that the equipment is medically necessary.
• The equipment is intended for use in the home (your home can include a long-term care facility in some circumstances).
• You use a Medicare-enrolled supplier, and for the best protection from surprise costs, one that accepts assignment.
• Some items (like power wheelchairs and certain oxygen equipment) have extra documentation rules, often including a face-to-face evaluation and detailed written order.

Why “accepts assignment” matters

If a supplier doesn’t accept assignment, you may be asked to pay the full amount up front, and the supplier may charge more than the Medicare-approved amount (Medicare reimburses you/your supplier based on its allowed amount).

Medicaid Coverage (varies by state)

Major National Programs (2026)

Medicare and Medicaid

Who it helps

• Medicare: People 65+ (and some people under 65 with qualifying disabilities)
• Medicaid: People who meet income/asset and other eligibility rules (rules vary by state)

What they cover

• Medicare Part B helps pay for durable medical equipment (DME) that’s medically necessary for use at home (wheelchairs, walkers, oxygen equipment, hospital beds, etc.).
• Medicaid may cover additional equipment and services, depending on your state.

What it costs

• Original Medicare Part B: You typically pay 20% coinsurance after the deductible for covered DME. (Your costs may be lower if you have Medigap, Medicaid, or other secondary coverage.)
• Medicaid: Costs vary by state and program; many beneficiaries have low or no copays.

How to apply / get started

• Medicare enrollment and coverage basics: Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE
• Medicaid: Apply through your state Medicaid agency (often via a state benefits portal)

Reality check for Medicare Advantage (Part C)

• If you’re in a Medicare Advantage plan, your plan can have different supplier networks, documentation requirements, and prior authorization rules than Original Medicare. Always check your plan’s DME network and approval steps before ordering equipment.

Veterans Affairs (VA) Programs

If you’re eligible for VA health care, the VA can be one of the best routes to medically necessary equipment—often with little to no out-of-pocket cost, depending on your eligibility and clinical need.

Who qualifies

• Veterans enrolled in VA health care and referred/approved for the equipment based on medical need.

What the VA can provide (examples)

• DME and mobility aids (walkers, wheelchairs), home oxygen services, and other prosthetic/sensory devices through Prosthetic & Sensory Aids Service (PSAS).
• Certain recurring supplies may be orderable as free medical supplies for eligible Veterans, including hearing aid batteries and accessories, CPAP supplies, and prosthetic socks.

Cost

• Often no cost for approved items for eligible Veterans; exact cost-sharing depends on VA eligibility and benefit category.

How to apply / get started

• Contact your local VA medical center and ask for Prosthetics (PSAS), or start through your VA care team for a referral.

Scale (what to expect)

• PSAS is a large national program, with more than 70 locations for custom fabrication and fitting and 600+ local contracts to expand access.

Friends of Disabled Adults and Children (FODAC)

FODAC is a nonprofit that refurbishes and redistributes donated home medical equipment and assistive technology—an option that can be much faster than insurance approvals when the item you need is in stock.

Who it helps

• People with disabilities and medical needs who can access FODAC services—primarily in Georgia (with locations including Tucker and Savannah).

What they provide (examples)

• Manual and power wheelchairs, scooters, hospital beds, walkers, shower chairs, lift chairs, and other home medical equipment (inventory varies).

Cost

• FODAC reports providing over $15 million annually in equipment and services.
• They also describe a one-time $25 fee for clients to receive refurbished items (wording varies by program/item, so it’s smart to confirm what applies to your request).

How to get help

• Call 770-491-9014 and ask about the equipment you need and current availability.
  Tip: Have the user’s height and weight ready for mobility equipment sizing.

Limitations to know up front

• FODAC states that items generally must be picked up at their Tucker facilities, and they may offer delivery for certain equipment within a 25-mile radius for a prepaid fee (restrictions apply).

Regional Equipment Loan Programs (Loan Closets & Reuse Programs)

Equipment loan closets can be one of the fastest ways to get basic items (walkers, transport wheelchairs, commodes, shower chairs) at low or no cost—especially when insurance approvals are slow.

What to expect: Inventory depends on donations and refurbishing capacity, so availability changes constantly. It’s normal to find waitlists for high-demand items.

National or Multi-State Options

Quick tip: If you can’t find a local loan closet quickly, call your Area Agency on Aging (via 1-800-677-1116) and ask specifically for “durable medical equipment loan closet” or “equipment reuse program.”

State and Regional Programs (Examples)

How to Find a Loan Closet Near You (Fast)

If the programs above aren’t in your area, these are reliable ways to locate local options:

• GotDME directory (search by ZIP or state)
• Your local Area Agency on Aging (Eldercare Locator: 1-800-677-1116)
• Your state’s Assistive Technology (AT) Act program (often runs reuse/loan programs and device exchanges)

Specialized Resources for Underserved Communities

Some seniors face extra hurdles getting equipment—whether that’s cost, distance, disability, or concerns about bias. The resources below can help you find affirming providers, community-based equipment closets, and programs tailored to your situation.

LGBTQ+ Seniors

Many LGBTQ+ older adults delay or avoid care because they’re worried about being treated unfairly. VA notes that LGBTQ+ Veterans may expect discrimination, which can affect whether they seek services.

Helpful resources

• National Resource Center on LGBTQ+ Aging (SAGE): Training, technical assistance, and referrals.
• LGBTQIA+ Aging Project (Fenway Health/The Fenway Institute): Education, outreach, training, and advocacy, with many offerings rooted in New England.
• SAGE (local support and national resources): Programs and resource guides for LGBTQ+ older adults.

Tips that make equipment requests easier

• Ask whether the provider/supplier has a nondiscrimination policy and how they handle complaints.
• If you’ve had negative experiences before, consider bringing a trusted friend or family member to help with measurements, fittings, and paperwork.
• If you’re looking for LGBTQ+-affirming services, start with the resource centers above and ask for local referrals.

Veteran Seniors

If you receive care through the VA, you may be able to get many medically necessary devices through VA Prosthetic & Sensory Aids Service (PSAS)—and you may also be eligible to order certain supplies at no cost, such as hearing aid batteries, CPAP supplies, and prosthetic socks.

VA equipment-related benefits to know

• Free eligible supplies (for qualifying Veterans): Hearing aid batteries/accessories, CPAP supplies, prosthetic socks.
• Automobile allowance (adaptive vehicle grant): VA lists a one-time allowance up to $27,074.99 (effective October 1, 2025, under current “2026” special benefit rates).
• LGBTQ+ Veteran support: VA states there is an LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinator at every facility to help Veterans access care.

How to get help

• Call your local VA medical center and ask for Prosthetics (PSAS), or message your VA care team for the right referral pathway.

Disabled Seniors (beyond Veterans)

If you’re living with a disability—temporary or long-term—these options often move faster than insurance:

• Nonprofit reuse programs (like FODAC and local reuse centers): refurbished equipment when it’s in stock.
• Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs): These local offices often know exactly where the equipment closets are in your county and can connect you to transportation, caregiver help, and benefits screening.
• Lions Clubs (some local chapters): Many communities have a Lions-run “medical loan closet” for items like walkers, wheelchairs, and commodes (availability depends on the club).

Tribal and Native American Seniors

The Indian Health Service (IHS) provides federal health services to American Indians and Alaska Natives as part of the government-to-government relationship between tribes and the federal government. IHS reports that members of 574 federally recognized Tribes and their descendants are eligible for services and that IHS provides a health delivery system for approximately 2.8 million people.

Equipment access pathways

• Start with your tribal health clinic or IHS facility to ask how equipment is ordered, approved, and maintained (repair policies matter).
• Ask specifically about Purchased/Referred Care (PRC) rules if care/equipment needs to be obtained outside the IHS facility.

Marketplace enrollment flexibility

• If you’re a member of a federally recognized tribe or an Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) shareholder, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period that allows Marketplace enrollment outside the usual open enrollment window (details and benefits vary).

Helpful resources

• National Indian Health Board (NIHB): Policy and resource support for tribal health programs.
• Your state Marketplace site (some have tribal-focused pages and navigators).

Rural Seniors with Limited Access

Rural seniors often deal with fewer local suppliers, long travel distances, and delivery constraints—especially for bulky items like hospital beds and power mobility devices.

Solutions that often work

• Ask loan closets and reuse programs about delivery radius or shared drop-off points with community partners.
• Use telehealth (when appropriate) for documentation visits and follow-ups related to medical necessity.
• Ask regional hospitals if they operate a loan closet or partner with a reuse program.

Tip: Contact your State Office of Rural Health (SORH) for local programs and resource referrals. HRSA supports SORHs in all states to strengthen rural health access.

How to Apply for Free (or Low-Cost) Equipment

Getting equipment quickly usually comes down to two things: the right paperwork and the right place to request it. Use this step-by-step process to avoid delays and reduce out-of-pocket costs.

Step-by-Step Process

1) Start with your doctor or clinician

Ask for documentation that clearly states:

• the diagnosis/condition (as appropriate)
• what equipment you need (exact type/model if known)
• why it’s medically necessary
• whether it’s for use at home
• any key details like height/weight, mobility limits, or oxygen settings (when relevant)

Many programs won’t release equipment without a prescription or “medical necessity” note—especially for wheelchairs, hospital beds, oxygen, and patient lifts.

2) Check Medicare/Medicaid (or your plan) first

If you have Original Medicare, confirm:

• the item is covered as DME
• you’re using a Medicare-enrolled supplier that accepts assignment

If you have Medicare Advantage, call the plan and ask:

• which DME suppliers are in-network
• whether prior authorization is required
• what documentation must be submitted before delivery

If you have Medicaid, your state program may cover items Medicare won’t—or reduce your coinsurance—so it’s worth checking before paying out of pocket.

3) Search local loan closets and reuse programs

If insurance is slow, denied, or you need something temporary, local programs can often help:

• Area Agency on Aging (via 1-800-677-1116)
• State Assistive Technology (AT) programs
• Nonprofit equipment banks and lending closets
• Disease-specific nonprofits (ALS, MS, etc.)

4) Prepare your paperwork in advance

Having everything ready is the difference between “same day” and “come back next week.”

5) Call before you go

Inventory changes daily. Ask:

• “Do you have a [specific item] in stock?”
• “What sizes are available?”
• “Is there a waitlist?”
• “Do you require a prescription or can you loan it without one?”
• “Do you offer delivery or is pickup required?”

6) Be flexible on the exact model

You may get equipment faster if you can accept:

• a different brand
• a similar style (e.g., transport chair vs. standard wheelchair)
• refurbished equipment in good working condition

Required Documentation

Most programs ask for some combination of the following:

• Photo ID (driver’s license or other government ID)
• Insurance cards (Medicare / Medicaid / Medicare Advantage / private insurance)
• Doctor’s prescription and/or medical necessity note (especially for DME)
• Proof of income (only for some nonprofit or Medicaid-related programs)
• Proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or state ID—requirements vary)

If you’re a Veteran

• VA eligibility information (your VA health enrollment details or VA patient identification), plus any clinic referral paperwork if required.

If you’re American Indian/Alaska Native

• Documentation showing eligibility through a federally recognized Tribe or ANCSA shareholder status may help when accessing certain programs or Marketplace enrollment pathways (requirements vary by program).

Finding Local Resources

When you need equipment quickly, the best results usually come from starting with referral hubs (they know what exists in your exact ZIP code) and then calling loan closets to check inventory.

Where to Start Your Search

Online Search Strategies

Use searches that match how programs label themselves:

• Search: “medical equipment loan closet + [your city]”
• Also try: “DME reuse program + [county/state]” or “equipment lending closet + [city]”
• Check your hospital or health system website for “community resources,” “loan closet,” “assistive devices,” or “case management.”
• Contact condition-specific nonprofits (Parkinson’s, MS, ALS, COPD, etc.). Many have local chapters and equipment lending programs.
• Join local community groups (Facebook, Nextdoor, community forums) where people post “free medical equipment” listings.
  Safety tip: For used equipment, confirm it’s the right size and in safe working condition, and avoid accepting items that are damaged or missing key parts.

Equipment-Specific Programs (What Works Best by Item)

Different equipment types have very different approval rules and availability. Use the guide below to choose the fastest, most realistic option for what you need.

Mobility Equipment

*Timelines are realistic ranges, not guarantees. Inventory and approval times vary by location, supplier, and medical need.

Home Care Equipment

Hospital beds

Hospital beds are available through many reuse/loan programs and through Medicare when medically necessary.

• Best starting points: Hospital discharge planners, local loan closets, nonprofit reuse programs
• Plan ahead: Beds are large and may require pickup logistics or delivery fees through some nonprofits.

Oxygen equipment

For most seniors, oxygen is handled through Medicare-covered rental (not a one-time purchase) with an approved supplier, based on qualifying medical need and documentation.

• Best starting points: Your clinician + a Medicare-enrolled oxygen supplier
• Good to know: Medicare’s oxygen rules involve documentation and qualifying testing, so approvals can be detailed.
• Emergency gap option: Some community loan closets may help temporarily, but oxygen availability is limited and varies widely.

CPAP machines (sleep apnea)

Medicare can cover CPAP therapy when you meet medical criteria and have the required documentation.

• Medicare coverage: Medicare covers CPAP therapy for obstructive sleep apnea when criteria are met; your costs depend on supplier assignment and other coverage.
• VA option: Eligible Veterans may be able to order CPAP supplies (and certain other items) at no cost through VA channels.

Reality Checks and Warnings

Free and low-cost equipment programs can be incredibly helpful—but they’re not perfect. Knowing the common pitfalls ahead of time can save you wasted trips, money, and frustration.

Common Challenges

Limited inventory (and waitlists)

Most equipment banks depend on donated items, so stock changes constantly. High-demand items—like hospital beds, power chairs, and scooters—often come with waitlists.

Geographic limitations

Many programs require in-person pickup, which can be tough if you don’t drive or can’t lift equipment. Some nonprofits offer delivery, but it’s commonly limited by distance or fees.

Condition and fit

Used equipment can show wear. Even when a program inspects items, you should still confirm:

• it fits your height/weight and body size
• it’s stable and safe
• moving parts work smoothly (brakes, armrests, leg rests, locks)

Repairs and maintenance

Some programs help with repairs, but many do not cover ongoing costs like:

• new batteries for power chairs/scooters
• replacement tires/casters
• missing accessories (chargers, cushions, straps)

Red Flags to Avoid

• Large upfront fees or “membership payments” that feel excessive
  Legitimate programs might charge a small admin fee or refundable deposit—but they should be clear, local, and transparent.
• Pressure tactics (“take it right now or you lose it”) without proper sizing/fitting
• Unsolicited calls asking for your Medicare number or personal info
  If someone calls you out of the blue claiming they can “send free equipment,” treat it as suspicious.
• Suppliers claiming Medicare coverage but not Medicare-enrolled
  If they say they bill Medicare, they should be Medicare-enrolled (and ideally accept assignment).

Managing Expectations

Timeline Reality (typical ranges)

• Simple items (canes, walkers, basic bathroom safety gear): often same day
• Standard manual wheelchairs: often 1–4 weeks
• Power wheelchairs / complex equipment: often several weeks to months
• Specialty/pediatric equipment: can take months, especially if it requires custom fitting

(These ranges vary widely by location, inventory, and medical documentation requirements.)

Quality Considerations (how to protect yourself)

• Donated equipment varies in condition—even within reputable programs.
• Many equipment banks clean and check devices before lending them, but you should still do your own quick inspection.
• Test the equipment before leaving (brakes, locks, height adjustments, motors/charger if powered).
• Ask about return/swap policies if the fit is wrong or something doesn’t work once you get home.

Tips for Success

A little preparation can make the difference between getting equipment this week versus getting stuck on a waitlist for months.

Before You Apply

• List your exact needs. Write down the item you need and any must-haves (for example: “walker with seat,” “wheelchair with elevating leg rests,” “hospital bed with rails”).
• Gather measurements early. Many programs match equipment based on height and weight, and for wheelchairs you may also need approximate seat width/seat-to-floor height.
• Contact more than one option. Apply to multiple programs at the same time—loan closets, reuse programs, and insurance coverage—so you’re not waiting on a single pathway.
• Plan for wait times. If you need something immediately, ask hospitals, AAAs, and local loan closets about temporary loaners while you pursue longer-term coverage.

During the Process

• Be polite and persistent. Many programs are run by small teams or volunteers with heavy demand.
• Ask key questions up front:
  • Is this a loan or a permanent transfer?
  • Do you require a deposit or any fees?
  • Who pays for repairs if something breaks?
  • Do you provide delivery, and what are the limits/costs?
• Inspect equipment before you accept it. Check stability, brakes, locks, wheels/casters, and that all parts are included (chargers, cushions, leg rests, etc.).
• Get it in writing. Keep copies/photos of:
  • loan agreements
  • return dates
  • pickup/delivery receipts
  • any instructions provided

After Receiving Equipment

• Follow the maintenance and safety instructions. Proper care helps equipment last longer and reduces injury risk.
• Report problems right away. If it’s a power device, oxygen-related equipment, or anything complex, don’t attempt major repairs yourself—call the program or supplier.
• Track return dates. Put reminders on your calendar to avoid late fees or being marked ineligible for future loans.
• Donate when you can. When you no longer need the equipment, donating it back (or to a local reuse program) helps another senior get what they need sooner.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I get equipment if I already have Medicare or Medicaid? A: Yes. Many loan closets and reuse programs help people regardless of insurance status. They’re often used to:

• bridge delays while insurance approvals are pending
• provide a temporary backup (for example, a walker after a fall)
• help when an item isn’t covered (or isn’t covered quickly)

Q: How long can I keep borrowed equipment? A: It depends on the organization. Some programs lend equipment as long as it’s medically needed, while others set fixed loan periods (for example, 30–90 days) or require periodic check-ins. Always ask for the return policy in writing.

Q: What if the equipment breaks while I’m using it? A: Call the lending organization immediately. Repair policies vary:

• Some programs can repair certain items or refer you to a repair partner.
• Many programs do not cover ongoing costs like batteries, chargers, or specialized parts, especially for power equipment.

Don’t attempt major repairs on complex equipment (power chairs, oxygen-related devices, hospital beds with motors) unless the program specifically directs you to.

Q: Can family members pick up equipment for me? A: Often yes. Many programs allow an authorized representative to pick up equipment if they have the required documentation (and sometimes a signed authorization form). Call ahead so you don’t waste a trip.

Q: Is there a limit to how much equipment I can borrow? A: Policies vary. Most programs prioritize essential needs and may limit quantities during high-demand periods. If you need more than one item (for example, a walker and a shower chair), explain why—some programs can accommodate when it’s medically justified.

Q: What if I can’t return the equipment on time? A: Contact the organization as soon as you know. Most programs will work with you on an extension when medical needs continue—but they usually require communication to keep the inventory available for the next person.

Q: Can I get equipment if I live in assisted living or another facility? A: Sometimes. Some programs serve only people living in a private home, while others can lend to people in assisted living. Certain programs may exclude residents of licensed facilities (rules vary by program and state), so check the program’s eligibility requirements.

Q: Are there programs specifically for children’s medical equipment? A: Yes. Many reuse programs and disease-specific nonprofits offer pediatric items such as:

• adaptive strollers
• pediatric wheelchairs
• positioning chairs and other specialized equipment
  Availability is often limited, so expect waitlists for highly specialized items.

Q: What if I need equipment immediately for hospital discharge? A: Start with the hospital’s social worker or discharge planner. Hospitals often have the fastest connections to:

• short-term loaners
• local reuse programs
• suppliers that can deliver quickly once paperwork is complete

Q: Can I donate equipment that’s no longer needed? A: Yes—and it’s one of the best ways to help your community. Most programs accept gently used equipment, though they may have restrictions (for example: no recalled items, heavily worn cushions, or incomplete power devices). Call first to ask:

• what items they accept
• whether they offer pickup for large equipment
• how to donate safely and cleanly

Resources by Region

National Resources

• Eldercare Locator (Area Agencies on Aging referrals)
  Call/text 1-800-677-1116 to get connected to local services like medical equipment lending closets (loan programs), caregiver support, transportation, and benefits help.
• Medicare
  Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) for questions about coverage, claims, and suppliers.
• VA Benefits (Veterans Benefits Administration)
  Call 1-800-827-1000 for VA benefits support.
• 211 Information & Referral
  Dial 2-1-1 to find local nonprofits, emergency help, and community resources near you.

Note: These contacts are U.S.-based. If you’re outside the U.S., start with your country’s health ministry/social services office and local Red Cross/Red Crescent.

Equipment-Specific Organizations (Condition-Focused)

• ALS Association (Independence & Mobility Program)
  Many chapters maintain an inventory of durable medical equipment and assistive devices available free of charge (availability varies by location).
• National Multiple Sclerosis Society
  Offers a financial assistance guide and a tool to find local resources and community-based services (help varies by region).
• Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA)
  Supports Veterans with spinal cord injury/dysfunction and offers benefits and support resources; national office phone (800) 424-8200 (additional helplines available).
• Diabetes support (financial help and supplies navigation)
  Instead of assuming a single “free supplies” pipeline, point readers to financial assistance pathways (copay/deductible relief and local resources) and ask their clinician/insurer about covered glucose monitors/supplies. The ADA has supported a diabetes co-pay relief fund through Patient Advocate Foundation (eligibility varies).

Faith-Based and Community Organizations

These groups can be excellent for short-term equipment needs, especially when insurance is delayed. Availability varies by location.

• Salvation Army
  Local assistance varies; national contact for donations is 1-800-SAL-ARMY (1-800-725-2769). For help, readers should search for the nearest local branch/service center.
• Catholic Charities
  Use the Catholic Charities USA “Find a Local Agency” directory to locate nearby programs (services vary by agency).
• Lions Clubs (some local clubs run medical equipment lending closets)
  Many Lions clubs operate community lending closets; readers should contact the nearest club to ask what’s available.
• Rotary Clubs (some clubs sponsor lending closets or equipment drives)
  Programs vary by club; some partner with community centers to loan durable medical equipment locally.

---

About This Guide

This guide provides comprehensive information about accessing free medical equipment for seniors in the United States. It includes current program details, eligibility requirements, and practical advice based on extensive research of government programs, nonprofit organizations, and medical equipment providers.

The information covers federal programs like Medicare and VA benefits, major national nonprofits, regional equipment banks, and specialized resources for underserved communities including LGBTQ+ seniors, veterans, disabled individuals, Native Americans, and rural residents.

While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, program details change frequently. Always verify current information directly with organizations before making decisions about medical equipment needs.

This guide addresses gaps in existing online resources by providing realistic timelines, acknowledging common challenges, and offering practical strategies for success. It emphasizes the importance of having backup plans and managing expectations while navigating the complex landscape of medical equipment assistance.

The content is designed to be accessible to older adults who may not be familiar with technical medical terms or complex application processes. It provides clear action steps, important warnings about potential scams, and honest assessments of program limitations alongside their benefits.

---

Disclaimer

This guide is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical, legal, or financial advice. Program eligibility, coverage details, and availability can change without notice. Readers should always verify current information directly with relevant agencies and consult with qualified professionals for personalized guidance.

While this guide strives for accuracy, the authors cannot guarantee that all program details remain current. Medical equipment needs should always be evaluated by qualified healthcare providers, and financial decisions should be made in consultation with appropriate advisors.

The inclusion of specific organizations or programs does not constitute an endorsement, and readers should conduct their own research before participating in any programs mentioned.