Free Medical Equipment for Seniors
A Practical Guide to Free Medical Equipment for Seniors in 2025
Last updated: August 2025
If You Need Emergency Help
Call 911 if you have a medical emergency or need immediate medical assistance.
If you need urgent medical equipment:
- Contact your local hospital social worker or discharge planner
- Call your Area Agency on Aging at 1-800-677-1116
- Reach out to local Red Cross chapter for disaster-related needs
- Contact your doctor’s office for immediate equipment prescriptions
Emergency Financial Assistance:
- 211 (dial 2-1-1): Free 24/7 information and referral service
- Salvation Army: 1-800-SAL-ARMY (1-800-725-2769)
- Catholic Charities: Find local chapter at catholiccharitiesusa.org
Key Takeaways
- Medicare Part B covers 80% of approved medical equipment costs after you meet the $257 deductible in 2025
- Over 1.2 million LGBTQ+ older adults rely on Medicaid for medical equipment coverage
- Organizations like FODAC provide over $15 million annually in free equipment with just a $25 lifetime registration fee
- Veterans can receive completely free medical equipment through VA’s Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service
- Equipment loan programs exist nationwide but have limited inventory and waiting lists
- Rural and tribal seniors face unique challenges accessing equipment but specialized programs exist
Understanding Medical Equipment Coverage in 2025
Getting the medical equipment you need doesn’t have to break the bank. While costs continue rising, multiple programs exist to help seniors access wheelchairs, hospital beds, oxygen equipment, and other essential devices at little or no cost.
Reality Check: Most programs have waiting lists, limited inventory, and specific eligibility requirements. Don’t expect immediate availability for all equipment, especially power wheelchairs and specialized devices.
What Qualifies as Medical Equipment
Medicare defines durable medical equipment (DME) as reusable medical equipment that is medically necessary, prescribed by a doctor, suitable for home use, and has a life expectancy of at least 3 years.
Common equipment includes:
- Wheelchairs (manual and electric)
- Hospital beds and special mattresses
- Walkers, canes, and crutches
- Oxygen equipment and concentrators
- CPAP machines for sleep apnea
- Blood glucose monitors and supplies
- Shower chairs and toilet safety equipment
- Patient lifts and transfer boards
Equipment NOT typically covered:
- Items primarily for convenience or comfort
- Equipment designed for use outside the home
- Home modifications like ramps or grab bars
- Over-the-counter items available at pharmacies
Medicare and Medicaid Coverage
Medicare Part B Coverage
In 2025, Medicare Part B has a standard monthly premium of $185.00 and an annual deductible of $257. After meeting your deductible, Medicare pays 80% of the approved amount for covered equipment, and you pay the remaining 20%.
Requirements for Medicare coverage:
- Doctor’s prescription stating medical necessity
- Equipment must be for home use
- Must use Medicare-approved supplier who accepts assignment
- Face-to-face examination with your doctor before equipment approval
Important: If your supplier doesn’t accept Medicare assignment, you may have to pay the full cost of equipment upfront.
Medicaid Coverage
Medicaid provides coverage for medical equipment that Medicare doesn’t cover, particularly benefiting the 1.2 million LGBTQ+ older adults who rely on these services. Coverage varies significantly by state, but most Medicaid programs cover basic equipment needs.
Medicaid advantages:
- Often covers items Medicare excludes
- May have lower or no copayments
- Can cover repairs and maintenance
- Some states cover home modifications
Major National Programs
Medicare and Medicaid
Who it helps: Americans 65+ or with qualifying disabilities What they cover: Most essential medical equipment with doctor’s prescription Cost: Medicare: 20% coinsurance after deductible; Medicaid: Varies by state How to apply: Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE; Medicaid through state offices
Reality Check: Medicare Advantage plans may have different supplier networks and prior authorization requirements than Original Medicare.
Veterans Affairs (VA) Programs
Veterans receiving VA care for any condition can get free VA prosthetic appliances, equipment and services, including wheelchairs, hospital beds, hearing aids, prosthetics, and other durable medical equipment.
Who qualifies: Veterans enrolled in VA healthcare What’s included: Free hearing aid batteries, CPAP supplies, prosthetic socks, and major medical equipment Cost: Completely free for eligible veterans How to apply: Contact your local VA medical center prosthetic representative
The VA’s Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service has more than 70 locations for custom fabrication and fitting, plus over 600 local contracts with accredited providers.
Friends of Disabled Adults and Children (FODAC)
FODAC provides over $15 million annually in equipment and services to individuals with disabilities, operating locations in Georgia with plans for expansion.
Who it helps: Adults and children with disabilities nationwide (Georgia locations) What they provide: Power and manual wheelchairs, scooters, hospital beds, walkers, shower chairs, lift chairs, and specialized pediatric equipment Cost: All equipment is free with a one-time $25 lifetime registration fee How to get help: Call 770-491-9014, press 2, and ask about availability. You’ll need height and weight of the person using equipment
Limitations: Must pick up equipment in person at Tucker, GA facility. Delivery available within 25-mile radius for a fee.
Regional Equipment Loan Programs
National Programs
| Organization | Coverage Area | Equipment Types | Cost | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ALS Association | Nationwide | Mobility aids, communication devices, power wheelchairs | Free loan | als.org |
| Medical Equipment Banks | Varies by location | Wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds | Free/low-cost | Search “medical loan closet near me” |
| Senior Resource Association | Regional | Home medical equipment, personal care items | Free | Contact local chapter |
State and Regional Programs
| Program | Location | Specialties | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Easterseals Iowa Equipment Loan | Iowa residents | Hospital beds, wheelchairs, walkers | Must not live in licensed care facility |
| Convalescent Aid Society | San Gabriel/San Fernando Valleys, CA | Full range of medical equipment | No government funding, donation-based |
| REquipment (Massachusetts) | Massachusetts | DME and assistive technology | No prescription required, delivery available |
Specialized Resources for Underserved Communities
LGBTQ+ Seniors
LGBTQ+ older adults experience unique challenges accessing medical equipment due to discrimination and financial barriers. Studies show LGBTQ+ people fear discrimination in long-term care facilities and may avoid seeking necessary equipment.
Helpful resources:
- National Resource Center on LGBTQ+ Aging: Technical assistance and referrals at lgbtagingcenter.org
- LGBTQIA+ Aging Project (Fenway Health): New England-focused services and advocacy
- SAGE: Local chapters provide LGBTQ+-affirming equipment assistance
Tips for LGBTQ+ seniors:
- Ask about nondiscrimination policies when contacting equipment providers
- Seek referrals from LGBTQ+-friendly healthcare providers
- Consider using chosen family members as advocates during equipment fittings
Veteran Seniors
100% disabled veterans receive completely free VA care, while those with 50% or higher ratings get priority access and free healthcare.
VA Equipment Benefits:
- Free hearing aid batteries and accessories (reorder every 6 months)
- CPAP supplies delivered in 7-10 days
- Up to $25,603 for specially-equipped vehicles in 2024
- Complete prosthetic and orthotic services
Important: Every VA facility has an LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinator to help veterans who may have been discharged for sexual orientation.
Disabled Seniors
Multiple programs specifically serve seniors with disabilities:
- FODAC: Serves adults and children with any type of disability, temporary or permanent
- National Association of Area Agencies on Aging: Network of 600+ local agencies providing equipment assistance
- Lions Clubs International: Local clubs operate equipment loan closets
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 Coverage:
- IHS provides federally-funded health care to nearly 2.6 million Native Americans, though this represents less than half of the nation’s AI/AN population
- Medical equipment coverage through IHS facilities and contracted providers
- Special enrollment periods allow tribal members to enroll in health plans year-round
Challenges: The AI/AN population has the highest uninsured rate compared to other U.S. populations, making equipment access difficult for many.
Resources:
- Contact local tribal health centers
- National Indian Health Board: Advocacy and resource connections at nihb.org
- State-specific programs like Washington Healthplanfinder for tribal members
Rural Seniors with Limited Access
Rural seniors face unique challenges accessing medical equipment due to distance, limited transportation, and fewer local resources.
Solutions for rural seniors:
- Some programs offer delivery services within certain radius
- Telehealth consultations for equipment prescriptions
- Online community groups and social platforms for equipment sharing
- Regional medical centers often have loan closets
Tip: Contact your state’s Office of Rural Health for specialized programs and transportation assistance.
How to Apply for Free Equipment
Step-by-Step Process
- Get a prescription: Most programs require a doctor’s order specifying medical necessity
- Verify insurance coverage: Check with Medicare/Medicaid first to minimize out-of-pocket costs
- Research local programs: Use the resources listed below to find equipment banks near you
- Prepare documentation: Have insurance cards, identification, and medical records ready
- Call ahead: Always call to check inventory before visiting, as stock changes frequently
- Be flexible: Consider different brands or slight variations in equipment style
Required Documentation
Typically needed:
- Photo identification
- Insurance cards (Medicare, Medicaid, private)
- Doctor’s prescription or medical records
- Proof of income (for some programs)
- Proof of residency
For veterans: VA eligibility documentation For tribal members: Official document from federally recognized tribe showing enrollment
Finding Local Resources
Where to Start Your Search
| Resource | Contact Method | What They Provide |
|---|---|---|
| Area Agency on Aging | 1-800-677-1116 | Local program referrals, direct assistance |
| 211 Service | Dial 2-1-1 | Comprehensive resource directory |
| Hospital Social Workers | Call local hospitals | Equipment loans, discharge planning |
| Senior Centers | Visit or call locally | Equipment programs, community connections |
Online Search Strategies
- Search “medical equipment loan closet + [your city]”
- Check hospital and healthcare system websites
- Contact disease-specific organizations (Parkinson’s, MS, etc.)
- Join online community groups where people give away medical equipment
Equipment-Specific Programs
Mobility Equipment
| Equipment Type | Best Programs | Average Wait Time | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manual Wheelchairs | FODAC, local loan closets | 1-4 weeks | Standard sizes available faster |
| Power Wheelchairs | VA (veterans), Medicare | 2-8 weeks | Complex approval process |
| Walkers/Rollators | Most loan programs | Immediate-2 weeks | Most commonly available |
| Scooters | FODAC, specialized programs | 4-12 weeks | Limited availability |
Home Care Equipment
Hospital Beds: Available through FODAC and most equipment loan programs, but require advance planning due to size and delivery requirements
Oxygen Equipment: Primarily covered through Medicare with approved suppliers, some loan programs for emergencies
CPAP Machines: VA provides free supplies to eligible veterans; Medicare covers equipment with sleep study documentation
Reality Checks and Warnings
Common Challenges
Limited Inventory: Most equipment banks depend on donations, so inventory changes frequently and popular items have waiting lists
Geographic Limitations: Many programs require in-person pickup, creating barriers for seniors without transportation
Condition Requirements: Used equipment may show wear; inspect carefully before accepting
Maintenance Issues: Some programs offer repairs, but clients often must purchase new batteries for power equipment
Red Flags to Avoid
- Programs requiring large upfront fees (legitimate programs charge minimal fees)
- Pressure to accept equipment immediately without proper fitting
- Companies requesting Medicare information over unsolicited phone calls
- Providers not enrolled with Medicare when claiming coverage
Managing Expectations
Timeline Reality:
- Simple equipment (canes, walkers): Often available immediately
- Standard wheelchairs: 1-4 weeks typical wait
- Power wheelchairs and complex equipment: 2-12 weeks or longer
- Specialized or pediatric equipment: May require 3-6 months
Quality Considerations:
- Donated equipment varies in condition
- Equipment banks typically assess, clean, and repair items before distribution
- Always test equipment before leaving the facility
- Ask about return policies if equipment doesn’t work properly
Tips for Success
Before You Apply
- List your exact needs: Include specific measurements, weight requirements, and special features
- Research multiple options: Apply to several programs simultaneously to improve your chances
- Get proper measurements: Programs need height and weight information to match equipment properly
- Prepare for wait times: Have backup plans for immediate needs
During the Process
- Be polite and patient: Staff are often volunteers dealing with high demand
- Ask questions: Understand how to use, maintain, and return equipment
- Inspect thoroughly: Check for proper function, cleanliness, and safety
- Get written information: Keep records of loan agreements and return dates
After Receiving Equipment
- Follow maintenance instructions: Proper care extends equipment life
- Report problems immediately: Don’t try to fix complex equipment yourself
- Plan for returns: Mark calendars with return dates to avoid penalties
- Consider donating: When you no longer need equipment, donate it back to help others
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I get equipment if I already have Medicare or Medicaid? A: Yes. Many equipment banks serve people regardless of insurance status, and can help bridge gaps in coverage or provide backup equipment.
Q: How long can I keep borrowed equipment? A: Most programs allow you to keep equipment as long as medically necessary. Some have specific time limits or require periodic check-ins.
Q: What if the equipment breaks while I’m using it? A: Some programs like FODAC offer repair services by appointment. Contact the lending organization immediately for guidance.
Q: Can family members pick up equipment for me? A: Most programs allow authorized representatives with proper documentation. Call ahead to confirm requirements.
Q: Is there a limit to how much equipment I can borrow? A: Policies vary by organization. Most focus on essential needs and may limit quantities during high-demand periods.
Q: What happens if I can’t return equipment when promised? A: Contact the organization immediately to discuss extensions. Most programs are understanding of medical needs but require communication.
Q: Can I get equipment if I live in an assisted living facility? A: Some programs like Easterseals Iowa specifically exclude residents of licensed care facilities. Check individual program requirements.
Q: Are there programs specifically for children’s medical equipment? A: Yes, FODAC and many other programs serve children with specialized pediatric equipment like adaptive strollers and pediatric wheelchairs.
Q: What if I need equipment immediately for hospital discharge? A: Contact the hospital’s social worker or discharge planner. Many hospitals have emergency equipment or relationships with local programs for immediate needs.
Q: Can I donate equipment that’s no longer needed? A: Most programs accept donations of gently used medical equipment. Contact them about pickup services for larger items.
Resources by Region
National Resources
- Eldercare Locator: 1-800-677-1116 | eldercare.acl.gov
- Medicare: 1-800-MEDICARE | medicare.gov
- VA Benefits: 1-800-827-1000 | va.gov
- 211 Information Service: Dial 2-1-1 | 211.org
Equipment-Specific Organizations
- ALS Association: als.org | Equipment loans for ALS patients
- Multiple Sclerosis Society: nationalmssociety.org | Equipment assistance programs
- Paralyzed Veterans of America: pva.org | Specialized equipment for spinal cord injuries
- American Diabetes Association: diabetes.org | Blood glucose monitors and supplies
Faith-Based and Community Organizations
- Salvation Army: 1-800-SAL-ARMY | Local equipment assistance
- Catholic Charities: catholiccharitiesusa.org | Community-based programs
- Lions Clubs International: lionsclubs.org | Local equipment loan closets
- Rotary Clubs: rotary.org | Community service projects including equipment assistance
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.