Lean on Me: Essential Equipment for Safe Homecare

Homecare can be challenging, especially when it comes to safely moving your loved one around the house. Proper equipment not only enhances safety but also reduces the physical strain on both caregivers and those receiving care. Here’s a guide to essential durable medical equipment (DME) that can make daily activities easier and safer.

1. Stairlift

A stairlift helps individuals safely navigate stairs without the need for assistance. It consists of a chair that moves along a rail mounted on the staircase. This is particularly beneficial for those who have difficulty climbing stairs and want to maintain independence in a multi-level home.

2. Gait Belt

A gait belt is used to assist with walking and transferring individuals. It wraps around the person’s waist, providing a secure hold for caregivers to support and guide the person safely during movement. This helps prevent falls and reduces the risk of injury for both the caregiver and the person being assisted.

3. Lift Chair

A lift chair is designed to assist individuals in transitioning from a seated to a standing position. It includes a motorized mechanism that tilts the chair forward, helping the user stand up with less effort. This is ideal for those with limited mobility or strength.

4. Wheelchair

Wheelchairs are crucial for individuals who have difficulty walking or are unable to walk. They come in manual and powered varieties, depending on the user’s needs and preferences. A wheelchair provides mobility and independence, allowing individuals to move around more freely.

5. Walker

A walker provides stability and support for individuals who need assistance with walking. It includes a frame with four legs and handles, helping users maintain balance and reduce the risk of falling. Walkers come in various styles, including those with wheels or without, depending on the user’s needs.

6. Hoyer Lift

A Hoyer lift, also known as a patient lift, assists in transferring individuals between different positions or locations, such as from a bed to a wheelchair. It uses a sling to support the person and a hydraulic or electric mechanism to lift and move them safely.

7. Sit-to-Stand Lift

A sit-to-stand lift helps individuals transition from a seated to a standing position with minimal effort. It provides support and stability during the process, making it easier for individuals with limited mobility to stand up.

8. Slip Sheet

Slip sheets are used to help reposition individuals in bed or on other surfaces. They are placed under the person and allow for smooth, gentle sliding, reducing friction and making repositioning easier for caregivers.

9. Transfer Disk

A transfer disk helps individuals shift from one seated position to another, such as from a wheelchair to a car seat. It consists of a circular platform that rotates, allowing for easier and safer transfers without straining the caregiver or the individual.

10. Hospital Bed

A hospital bed can be adjusted for comfort and ease of care. It typically includes features like adjustable head and foot sections, side rails, and height adjustments. This equipment is especially useful for individuals who need prolonged bed rest or specialized care at home.

Insurance and Reimbursement

Many of these DME items are covered by Medicare Part B if they are prescribed by a doctor for home use and deemed medically necessary. To qualify for reimbursement, ensure that the DME vendor is accredited by professional entities like The Joint Commission or the Community Health Accreditation Program.

Find approved suppliers in your area through Medicare here by entering your ZIP code. Your homecare or hospice agency may also assist in locating a reliable DME provider.

Investing in the right equipment can significantly improve the quality of care and make daily routines smoother and safer for both caregivers and their loved ones. Evaluate your needs and consider these essential tools to support effective and safe homecare.