Free Medical Equipment for Seniors

Last updated: May 6, 2026

Quick start: where to begin

Use this table first. It can help you avoid calling the wrong place or paying before you check free and lower-cost options.

Contents

• Quick start: where to begin
• If you need emergency help
• What counts as medical equipment
• Medicare and Medicaid coverage
• Major national programs
• Loan closets
• Specialized resources for underserved communities
• Apply without delays
• Finding local resources
• What works best by item
• Reality checks and warnings
• Tips for success
• Resources by region
• Phone scripts you can use
• Resumen en español
• FAQ
• About this guide

If you need emergency help

If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 911 right away. Do not wait for a loan closet, charity, or insurance approval.

If you need equipment urgently but it is not a 911 emergency, start with the fastest local people first:

• Hospital social worker or discharge planner: This is often the fastest place after a hospital stay. Ask for help getting a walker, wheelchair, commode, oxygen supplier, hospital bed, or other needed item before discharge.
• Local aging office: The federal Eldercare Locator connects older adults and families with local aging services. Call or text 1-800-677-1116.
• 2-1-1: United Way 211 can refer you to local nonprofits, loan closets, transportation help, and emergency support.
• Disaster need: If equipment was lost in a fire, flood, storm, wildfire, or evacuation, contact your local American Red Cross chapter. Red Cross service sites may help with disaster-related needs such as lost prescriptions, eyeglasses, medical-device charging, recovery planning, and referrals through Red Cross services.
• Your doctor or clinic: Many sources need a prescription or note that says the item is medically necessary. Ask the clinic to send it the same day if your need is urgent.

If the equipment need is part of a larger crisis, such as past-due bills, rent pressure, or food shortages, look for broader help too. Many families also check charities helping seniors, utility bill help, housing and rent help, and food programs when a health problem causes money stress.

What counts as medical equipment

In Medicare language, many items are called durable medical equipment, or DME. This usually means equipment that can be used again and again, is expected to last at least 3 years, is mainly for a medical purpose, is useful because of illness or injury, and can be used in the home. The federal rule is listed in the DME definition.

Common equipment that may qualify includes:

• wheelchairs and some power mobility devices
• walkers, rollators, canes, and crutches
• hospital beds and some pressure-reducing support surfaces
• commodes and some bathroom safety equipment
• oxygen equipment and accessories
• CPAP machines and related supplies for sleep apnea
• blood glucose monitors and some diabetes supplies
• patient lifts and transfer devices when criteria are met

Some items are useful but may not count as covered DME under Original Medicare. This often includes most home changes, grab bars installed into walls, ramps, widened doorways, comfort items, and many over-the-counter products. Medicaid, Medicare Advantage, VA, or local waiver programs may have different rules, so check before paying.

Medicare and Medicaid coverage

For many seniors, Medicare and Medicaid are the first places to check before calling charities. They can also work together. If you have both programs, this dual eligible guide explains how Medicare and Medicaid may coordinate costs.

Medicare Part B

Original Medicare Part B covers many types of DME when the item is medically necessary, ordered by a Medicare-enrolled provider, meant for home use, and supplied by a Medicare-enrolled supplier. Medicare explains the basic rules on its DME coverage page.

For 2026, the standard Medicare Part B premium is $202.90 per month, and the annual Part B deductible is $283. CMS announced those 2026 amounts in its Part B cost update. After the deductible, Original Medicare generally pays 80% of the Medicare-approved amount for covered DME, and you usually pay 20% unless you have help from Medicaid, Medigap, employer retiree coverage, or another payer.

Before you order equipment under Original Medicare, use the official Medicare supplier tool. Ask whether the supplier accepts assignment. This matters because assignment helps limit your out-of-pocket cost to the Medicare-approved amount.

Medicare Advantage

Medicare Advantage plans must cover Medicare-covered DME, but the plan may use a network, prior authorization, preferred suppliers, or different approval steps. Call the plan before ordering. Ask for the DME department and write down the name of the person you spoke with.

Ask these questions:

• Which suppliers are in network for this item?
• Do I need prior authorization?
• What exact doctor notes are needed?
• Will the plan rent or buy the item?
• What will I owe if approved?

Medicaid

Medicaid can help when Medicare does not cover the full cost, but each state runs its own Medicaid program. This means covered equipment, prior approval rules, repair rules, and copays can vary. If you are not sure where to apply or who to call, Medicaid.gov says you must contact your state Medicaid office for applications, eligibility, provider questions, and claims help.

Medicaid may also help some seniors through Home and Community-Based Services waivers or long-term services and supports. These programs may be able to help with some home safety changes, depending on the state, the waiver, the budget, and medical need. For a plain-English overview, see our guide to Medicaid for seniors.

Medicare Savings Programs

If the 20% Medicare coinsurance is the problem, ask about a Medicare Savings Program. The Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) program can help pay Medicare premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments for Medicare-covered items and services. Medicare describes this help on its Medicare Savings Programs page. You can also read our Medicare Savings Programs guide.

QMB has an extra protection: federal law says Medicare providers and suppliers generally may not bill QMB members for Medicare cost sharing on covered items and services. CMS explains this on its QMB billing page. If you have QMB and get a bill for covered DME cost sharing, call your Medicaid office, Medicare, or your State Health Insurance Assistance Program.

Major national programs

There is no single national program that gives every senior free equipment. The best route depends on your insurance, veteran status, location, diagnosis, and the item needed.

Medicare and Medicaid

Who they help: Medicare helps people age 65 and older and some younger people with disabilities. Medicaid helps people who meet state income, asset, disability, age, or care-need rules.

What they may cover: Medicare Part B may cover medically necessary DME for home use. Medicaid may cover more, less, or different equipment depending on the state and program.

Cost: Original Medicare usually leaves a 20% coinsurance after the Part B deductible. Medicaid may lower or remove that cost for some people. Costs under Medicare Advantage depend on plan rules.

How to start: Call your doctor first for the order. Then call Medicare, your Medicare Advantage plan, or Medicaid before choosing a supplier.

Reality check: Do not buy expensive equipment first and assume Medicare, Medicaid, or your plan will pay you back. Get the approval steps in writing before delivery when possible.

Veterans Affairs

If you are enrolled in VA health care, the VA can be one of the strongest routes for medically needed equipment. VA Prosthetic & Sensory Aids Service provides a wide range of devices and services, including mobility aids, home oxygen services, assistive devices, repairs, and sensory aids when approved through VA care. VA describes these services through VA Prosthetics.

Eligible veterans may also be able to order certain supplies, such as hearing aid batteries, CPAP supplies, and prosthetic socks, through the VA medical supplies page.

For some service-connected disabilities, VA may pay toward a specially equipped vehicle. The current automobile allowance is up to $27,074.99, effective October 1, 2025, according to the VA special allowance rates. This is not a general equipment grant. It has strict rules.

How to start: Call your VA care team and ask for Prosthetics, PSAS, or the clinic that handles the equipment you need.

Reality check: VA help depends on VA eligibility, enrollment, clinical need, and referral rules. Start with your VA provider instead of buying first.

FODAC

Friends of Disabled Adults and Children, often called FODAC, refurbishes and redistributes donated home medical equipment. It can be a good option for people who can reach its Georgia locations or service area. FODAC lists wheelchairs, scooters, hospital beds, walkers, shower chairs, lift chairs, and other items, with inventory changing often. Its medical equipment page says there is a one-time $25 registration fee for each new client and that height and weight are needed for matching equipment.

FODAC says items are generally picked up at its Tucker facilities. Its public FAQ also says some delivery may be available for certain equipment within a 25-mile radius for a prepaid fee, with restrictions.

How to start: Call the Tucker location at 1-770-491-9014 or the Savannah location at 1-912-667-1552 and ask if the exact item is in stock.

Reality check: FODAC is not a nationwide delivery program for every item. Call first and ask about pickup, delivery, fees, batteries, and documents.

Condition-focused nonprofits

Some disease-specific groups have equipment programs, resource guides, or local chapters. The ALS Association says its mobility program includes an inventory of DME, daily living aids, and communication devices available free of charge, when available. The National MS Society also has financial help information and a tool for local resources.

How to start: Search for the national group for your condition, then look for your local chapter or resource navigator.

Reality check: These programs usually help people with that diagnosis. They may not help with general equipment needs.

Equipment loan closets and reuse programs

Equipment loan closets can be the fastest option for basic items. These programs lend, give, or sell donated medical equipment at low cost. Some are run by senior centers, churches, disability groups, hospitals, Lions Clubs, Rotary Clubs, fire departments, or local nonprofits.

Many state Assistive Technology (AT) Act programs also support equipment loans, reuse, demonstrations, or device exchanges. The Administration for Community Living explains that the AT program helps make assistive technology more available to people with disabilities and families. The AT3 Center has a state AT directory you can use to find your state program.

What loan closets usually have

State and regional examples

These examples show the kinds of programs that may exist near you. They do not mean every state has the same service.

How to find a loan closet near you

• Call your Area Agency on Aging through 1-800-677-1116.
• Dial 2-1-1 and ask for a durable medical equipment loan closet.
• Call your senior center, center for independent living, county disability office, or local hospital.
• Ask local faith groups. Some communities have a church-run equipment closet. Our guide to churches helping seniors explains how to ask for local help without overpromising what churches can do.
• Search online for “medical equipment loan closet” plus your city, county, or state.

Specialized resources for underserved communities

Some seniors face extra barriers, such as long travel distances, bias, disability, lack of a nearby supplier, or confusion between Medicare, Medicaid, and VA systems. The resources below can help you find a safer starting point.

LGBTQ+ seniors

Some LGBTQ+ older adults avoid care because of past discrimination or fear of poor treatment. If that is a concern, start with groups that understand LGBTQ+ aging and ask for local referrals.

• SAGE resources include national LGBTQ+ aging information and referrals.
• The Fenway Health LGBTQIA+ Aging Project supports training, outreach, and education for LGBTQIA+ older adults and service providers.
• Ask any supplier or agency how it handles complaints and whether staff have nondiscrimination training.

Medicaid can also matter for LGBTQ+ older adults with limited income. A 2025 Justice in Aging and SAGE fact sheet says more than 7 million low-income adults age 65 and older are enrolled in Medicaid, including at least 1.2 million LGBT older adults. Because benefits and eligibility vary, confirm your own state rules before assuming coverage.

Veteran seniors

Veterans should start with the VA care team. Ask for Prosthetics or PSAS if you need mobility aids, home oxygen services, hearing-related items, orthotics, prosthetics, or repairs. LGBTQ+ veterans can also use the VA VCC locator. VA says there is an LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinator in every VA health care system.

Disabled seniors beyond VA

If you live with a disability and do not use VA care, call your state AT program, center for independent living, Area Agency on Aging, or disability nonprofit. Nonprofit reuse programs can be faster than insurance for basic equipment, but they depend on donations.

Tribal and Native American seniors

The Indian Health Service (IHS) says members of 574 federally recognized American Indian and Alaska Native Tribes and their descendants are eligible for IHS services, and that IHS provides a health delivery system for about 2.8 million people. This is explained in the IHS Quick Look fact sheet.

If equipment must be ordered outside an IHS or Tribal facility, ask about Purchased/Referred Care (PRC). IHS says PRC purchases services from private health providers for eligible American Indian and Alaska Native patients in certain situations, such as when no IHS or Tribal direct-care facility exists. Start with the IHS PRC fact sheet, then ask your local Tribal or IHS clinic what steps apply.

Members of federally recognized Tribes and Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act shareholders may also have special Marketplace protections. HealthCare.gov explains these on its AI/AN coverage page.

Rural seniors

Rural seniors may have fewer suppliers, longer drives, and delivery barriers. Ask whether a loan closet has a delivery radius, a volunteer driver partner, or a shared pickup point. If you need home changes such as a ramp or bathroom access, home repair grants may help you find separate programs for accessibility work.

HRSA funds State Offices of Rural Health in all 50 states to support rural health access. The HRSA SORH program page explains how these offices connect rural communities with state and federal resources. A SORH may not give you equipment directly, but it may know rural clinics, hospitals, and networks that can refer you.

How to apply without wasting time

Getting equipment often comes down to two things: the right paperwork and the right place to ask. Use these steps before paying cash.

Start with the exact item

Write down the item you need. Be specific. “Walker” is less helpful than “four-wheel rollator with seat and hand brakes.” “Wheelchair” is less helpful than “standard manual wheelchair, 18-inch seat, elevating leg rests.” If you do not know the size, ask your clinician, physical therapist, occupational therapist, or supplier how to measure.

Ask your doctor for a clear order

Many programs need a prescription or medical necessity note. Ask the doctor or clinician to include:

• your diagnosis or reason for the item
• the exact equipment needed
• why it is medically necessary
• whether it is for use at home
• height, weight, seat size, oxygen settings, or other details when needed
• how long you are expected to need the item

Check coverage before pickup or delivery

If you have Original Medicare, use a Medicare-enrolled supplier that accepts assignment. If you have Medicare Advantage, use the plan network and ask about prior approval. If you have Medicaid, ask whether the item is covered by fee-for-service Medicaid, your managed-care plan, a waiver, or another state program.

Do not rely on a salesperson saying, “Medicare covers this.” Ask for the supplier number, assignment status, prior authorization rule, and your estimated cost.

Call loan closets at the same time

If insurance will take days or weeks, call local loan closets while the paperwork moves. This can help you bridge a gap after a fall, surgery, hospital stay, or sudden decline.

Prepare your documents

Ask these questions before you accept equipment

• Is this a loan, rental, donation, or permanent transfer?
• Is there a fee, deposit, or late charge?
• How long can I keep it?
• Who handles repairs?
• Can a family member pick it up?
• Do you deliver?
• What happens if the item does not fit?
• Can I exchange it if it is unsafe or broken?

Finding local resources

Local programs are often hidden. They may not rank high in search results, and some are run by volunteers. Use more than one search path.

Best places to call

Search terms that work

• “medical equipment loan closet” plus your city
• “DME reuse program” plus your county
• “assistive technology loan” plus your state
• “wheelchair loan closet” plus your city
• “hospital bed loan” plus your county
• “Lions Club medical equipment” plus your city

When money problems are wider than equipment

A medical crisis can also cause missed bills. If equipment costs are part of a bigger budget problem, look at food, rent, utilities, Medicare cost help, and local charities together. That is often more useful than focusing on one item at a time.

What works best by item

Different equipment follows different rules. A cane may be easy to borrow. Oxygen or a power wheelchair may need detailed testing and approval.

Mobility equipment

Home care equipment

Hospital beds: Start with the hospital discharge planner if the need follows a hospital stay. For long-term use, start with your doctor and insurance plan. Loan closets may have beds, but delivery and setup can be hard.

Patient lifts: These usually need good documentation and safe training. Ask who will train the caregiver and who repairs the lift if it fails.

Bathroom safety items: Shower chairs and commodes are common in loan closets. Installed grab bars and home remodeling are different. Medicare usually treats many home changes differently from DME.

Oxygen equipment

Medicare covers oxygen equipment as a rental when rules are met. Medical testing and documentation are important. Start with your clinician and a Medicare-enrolled oxygen supplier. Medicare explains this on its oxygen coverage page.

Be careful with used oxygen equipment from private sellers. Oxygen equipment must be safe, clean, properly prescribed, and set for the right need. Do not change oxygen settings without medical advice.

CPAP machines

Medicare may cover a 12-week trial of CPAP therapy for obstructive sleep apnea when criteria are met. After that, continued coverage depends on medical documentation and use. Medicare explains this on its CPAP coverage page.

If you are a veteran and already receive VA care for a qualifying condition, ask the VA about CPAP supplies.

Reality checks and warnings

Free and low-cost equipment programs can help a lot. They also have limits. Knowing the common problems can save you time and money.

Inventory is not guaranteed

Loan closets depend on donations. They may have three walkers today and none tomorrow. High-demand items like hospital beds, power chairs, scooters, and lifts often have waitlists.

Pickup can be hard

Many programs do not deliver. Some require pickup during limited weekday hours. Ask about delivery before you arrange a ride. If you need transport, ask 2-1-1, your Area Agency on Aging, or a local volunteer driver program.

Used equipment must fit

A free wheelchair that does not fit can cause pain, falls, or skin problems. A walker that is too high or too low can make balance worse. Always check size, brakes, wheels, locks, tips, cushions, chargers, cords, and weight limits.

Repairs may not be covered

Ask who pays for batteries, tires, brakes, cushions, chargers, and repairs. Power chairs and scooters can become expensive if they need a battery or controller.

Watch for scams

Be careful if someone calls out of the blue and asks for your Medicare number to send “free” equipment. Do not give your Medicare number, Social Security number, bank details, or plan ID to a caller you did not contact first. If a supplier says Medicare will pay, check that the supplier is Medicare-enrolled and ask whether it accepts assignment.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Buying first and asking Medicare or Medicaid to pay later.
• Accepting equipment without checking size and safety.
• Assuming every nonprofit is free.
• Assuming a loan closet has the same items every day.
• Skipping Medicaid or Medicare Savings Programs because you think you are “a little over” the limit. State rules differ.
• Not asking for the return date, repair policy, and fee policy in writing.

If you are denied, delayed, or overwhelmed

• Ask why in writing. A denial should say what rule or document is missing.
• Call the doctor. Many denials happen because the medical note is too vague.
• Ask about appeal rights. Medicare, Medicaid, and Medicare Advantage plans have appeal steps.
• Call SHIP. State Health Insurance Assistance Programs can help with Medicare questions.
• Use a backup. Call loan closets while an appeal or prior authorization is pending.

Tips for success

A little planning can make the difference between getting equipment this week and waiting for months.

Before you call

• Write down the exact item.
• Gather height, weight, and size details.
• Get the doctor order or ask when it will be ready.
• Have your Medicare, Medicaid, VA, or plan card nearby.
• Write down your ZIP code and county because many programs are local.

During the call

• Ask the name of the person helping you.
• Ask if the item is in stock right now.
• Ask if there is a waitlist.
• Ask if pickup or delivery is required.
• Ask about fees, deposits, repairs, return dates, and cleaning rules.
• Ask what to bring.

After you receive equipment

• Test the brakes, locks, wheels, height settings, and cords.
• Keep all papers and receipts.
• Put return dates on a calendar.
• Report problems right away.
• Do not change oxygen or CPAP settings without medical direction.
• Donate usable equipment back when you no longer need it, if you can.

Resources by region

Because equipment help is local, a national list can only be a starting point. Use these contacts, then ask for programs in your ZIP code.

National contacts

• Eldercare Locator: Call or text 1-800-677-1116 for aging services and local referrals.
• Medicare: Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) for coverage, supplier, and claims questions. TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048.
• Medicaid: Contact your state Medicaid agency for DME rules, prior approval, and managed-care questions.
• VA benefits: Call 1-800-827-1000 for VA benefits support. For equipment through VA health care, call your VA care team.
• 2-1-1: Dial 2-1-1 for local charity, emergency, food, transportation, and equipment referrals.

Faith-based and community groups

Local help may come from churches, Catholic Charities, The Salvation Army, Lions Clubs, Rotary Clubs, synagogues, mosques, senior centers, and local disability groups. Availability varies by city and funding. Ask if they have equipment, know a loan closet, or can help with a delivery fee.

Some seniors also need dental, medical, or household support at the same time. If equipment is only one part of the problem, broader health-cost help may be worth checking.

Phone scripts you can use

Copy these scripts and fill in the blanks before you call.

Script for the hospital discharge planner

Hello, my name is [name]. I am being discharged, and I need [equipment] to be safe at home. Can you help me get a doctor order, find an approved supplier, or connect me with a short-term loan program before discharge?

Script for the Area Agency on Aging

Hello, I am calling for a senior in [ZIP code]. We need [equipment]. Do you know of any durable medical equipment loan closets, reuse programs, or charities in this county? Can you give me phone numbers and tell me what documents they may ask for?

Script for Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan

Hello, I need [equipment]. Can you tell me if it is covered, whether prior authorization is needed, which suppliers I must use, and what my estimated cost may be? Please tell me what documentation my doctor needs to send.

Script for a loan closet or nonprofit

Hello, do you have [equipment] available now? What sizes do you have? Is it a loan or a permanent donation? Is there any fee or deposit? Do you require a prescription, ID, proof of address, or income proof? Do you offer delivery?

Resumen en español

Si necesita equipo médico gratis o de bajo costo, empiece con la opción más rápida para su situación. Si sale del hospital, hable con el trabajador social o el planificador de alta. Si necesita un bastón, andador, silla de ruedas básica, silla para la ducha o inodoro portátil, llame a la oficina local de servicios para adultos mayores o marque 2-1-1.

Medicare Parte B puede ayudar con equipo médico duradero cuando es necesario por razones médicas y se usa en el hogar. En 2026, Medicare Parte B tiene una prima estándar de $202.90 al mes y un deducible anual de $283. Después del deducible, muchas personas pagan el 20% del costo aprobado por Medicare. Medicaid, un programa de ahorros de Medicare, Medigap u otra cobertura puede ayudar a algunas personas con ese costo.

Si usted tiene Medicare y Medicaid, revise cómo se coordinan los beneficios. Si solo tiene Medicare y el 20% es demasiado caro, pregunte por los Programas de Ahorros de Medicare. Si usted es veterano, llame a su equipo de atención del VA y pregunte por Prosthetics o PSAS.

No pague por equipo caro antes de revisar las reglas. Pida una receta o nota médica clara. Llame antes de ir a un banco de equipo, porque el inventario cambia mucho. Pregunte si el equipo es prestado o regalado, si hay cuota, si entregan a domicilio y quién paga reparaciones.

Si necesita ayuda con otros gastos al mismo tiempo, revise programas de comida, vivienda, servicios públicos, Medicaid y organizaciones benéficas locales. No hay garantía de aprobación, pero llamar a varios lugares a la vez puede ayudarle a encontrar una opción más rápida.

FAQ

Can seniors really get free medical equipment?

Sometimes. Free equipment is most often available through loan closets, reuse programs, VA-approved care, Medicaid, charities, or local nonprofits. Medicare usually helps pay for covered DME but often leaves a 20% coinsurance unless you have other help.

Does Medicare pay for walkers, wheelchairs, and hospital beds?

Medicare Part B may pay for covered DME when it is medically necessary, ordered by a qualified provider, used at home, and supplied by a Medicare-enrolled supplier. You still may owe the deductible and coinsurance.

What is the fastest way to get equipment after a hospital stay?

Ask the hospital social worker or discharge planner before you leave. They often know local suppliers, loan closets, and short-term options that can move faster than a cold call.

Can Medicaid pay for equipment Medicare will not cover?

Sometimes. Medicaid rules vary by state. Some Medicaid programs or waivers may cover equipment, repairs, supplies, or home supports that Original Medicare does not cover. Call your state Medicaid office or managed-care plan.

Can a family member pick up borrowed equipment?

Often yes, but the program may require ID, a signed form, proof of address, or the senior’s permission. Call first so the family member does not waste a trip.

What if borrowed equipment breaks?

Call the lending program right away. Do not try major repairs on power chairs, oxygen equipment, CPAP machines, or hospital beds unless the program tells you to. Repair rules vary.

Can I keep loaned equipment as long as I need it?

It depends. Some programs allow long-term use. Others have a fixed loan period, such as 30, 60, or 90 days. Ask for the return policy in writing.

Is used medical equipment safe?

It can be safe if it is clean, complete, in good condition, and the right size. Check brakes, wheels, locks, cords, chargers, cushions, tips, and weight limits before accepting it.

Can I donate equipment I no longer need?

Yes, if the item is clean and accepted by the program. Call first. Some programs cannot take recalled, broken, incomplete, or heavily worn equipment.

What should I do if a supplier calls me offering free equipment?

Be careful. Do not give your Medicare number or personal information to a caller you did not contact first. Call Medicare, your plan, or a trusted local agency to check before sharing information.