At EasyLiving, we understand the importance of keeping seniors independent, active, and safe. Maintaining mobility and autonomy becomes increasingly important for quality of life, preventing falls, and staying engaged in the community. Fortunately, a variety of medical devices are available to support seniors in achieving these goals. The good news? Medicare may cover some of these essential devices, making them more affordable for you or your loved ones.
Below, we’ll explore some of the best devices designed to help seniors maintain independence while continuing to enjoy an active lifestyle and provide insight into potential Medicare coverage.
1. Mobility Aids
Mobility is key to independence. For many seniors, getting around safely can be a challenge, but the right mobility aids make all the difference:
- Rollators and Walkers: Devices like 4-wheel rollators with seats and storage compartments allow seniors to walk confidently. Medicare Part B may help cover walkers, but make sure they meet specific guidelines.
- Canes: For those needing minimal assistance, ergonomic or foldable canes offer balance support. In certain cases, Medicare may cover medically necessary canes.
- Power Scooters: For seniors with more limited mobility, power scooters offer a solution for maintaining independence. Medicare Part B may cover scooters, provided your doctor determines it’s medically necessary and you meet specific criteria.
2. Home Safety Devices
Falls are a leading cause of injury for seniors, but home safety devices can help mitigate this risk and foster greater independence:
- Grab Bars and Handrails: These simple tools are essential in high-risk areas such as bathrooms and staircases, though Medicare does not typically cover grab bars.
- Shower Chairs and Transfer Benches: Medicare typically does not cover shower chairs or transfer benches, but these are valuable tools for promoting independence in the bathroom.
- Lift Chairs: Electric lift chairs help seniors sit down and stand up without straining their joints. Medicare Part B may cover the mechanical lifting mechanism of the chair if it’s prescribed by your doctor.
3. Fall Detection and Emergency Devices
Peace of mind for seniors and their families is invaluable, and these devices can help in emergencies:
- Medical Alert Systems: While Medicare generally does not cover medical alert systems, some Medicare Advantage plans may offer this as part of their extra benefits.
- Smartwatches with Health Monitoring: Devices like the Apple Watch or Fitbit provide health tracking and fall detection, though Medicare typically does not cover these types of consumer-grade smart devices.
4. Hearing and Vision Aids
Hearing and vision impairments can greatly impact a senior’s quality of life, but modern aids can help them stay connected and engaged:
- Hearing Aids: Devices like those from Eargo or Phonak help seniors hear better, though Original Medicare does not cover hearing aids. However, some Medicare Advantage plans may cover hearing tests and hearing aids.
- Magnifying Glasses and Reading Aids: These simple tools make reading and writing easier, though Medicare does not cover them.
5. Medication Management
Managing medications is critical for many seniors, and these devices ensure medications are taken on time and in the correct dosages:
- Pill Dispensers with Alarms: Automated pill dispensers like MedMinder help seniors adhere to their medication schedules, though Medicare generally does not cover them.
- Smart Pill Bottles: Devices like GlowCap alert seniors and caregivers to missed doses, but these are not covered under Medicare.
6. Fitness and Activity Devices
Staying physically active is essential for seniors to maintain strength, balance, and overall health:
- Wearable Fitness Trackers: Devices like Fitbit track steps and heart rate, promoting a more active lifestyle. While Medicare does not cover these devices, some Medicare Advantage plans may offer fitness benefits.
- Resistance Bands and Light Weights: These tools allow seniors to engage in low-impact strength training, though they are not typically covered by Medicare.
7. Cognitive Support Devices
For seniors facing memory challenges or cognitive decline, the following devices offer gentle support to help them stay independent:
- Reminder Clocks and Calendars: Large-print clocks and calendars help seniors stay oriented and keep track of daily routines. However, these devices are not covered by Medicare.
- Cognitive Games and Tablets: Brain-training games or puzzles on tablets are great for mental engagement, but Medicare does not cover these tools.
8. Smart Home Technology
Modern technology can make seniors’ lives easier by automating daily tasks:
- Voice-Controlled Assistants: Devices like Amazon Alexa can be useful for seniors with limited mobility or vision, but they are not covered by Medicare.
- Automated Door Locks and Lights: These smart devices make homes safer but are not covered by Medicare.
9. Incontinence Products
For seniors facing incontinence challenges, modern products provide discretion and comfort:
- Wearable Incontinence Devices: While Medicare generally does not cover incontinence supplies like pads or adult diapers, some Medicare Advantage plans may offer coverage.
Conclusion
At EasyLiving, we’re committed to helping seniors stay active and independent by providing the tools and resources they need. Many of the medical devices discussed can be integral in achieving these goals. While Original Medicare does not cover all of these devices, certain items—like mobility aids and lift chairs—may be covered if they are deemed medically necessary by a doctor. Additionally, some Medicare Advantage plans may offer broader coverage, including fitness devices and medical alert systems.
We encourage you to check with your Medicare provider or insurance company to understand what’s covered under your plan. If you or a loved one need assistance navigating Medicare coverage or selecting the right devices for independence, our team at EasyLiving is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you on your aging journey.
