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People living with ALS often need a considerable amount of equipment to assist with mobility, breathing, communication, and daily activities around the home. These devices, ranging from inexpensive built-up utensils to high-end power wheelchairs, can improve your quality of life but also cost a lot of money if you pay out of pocket.
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You can potentially save thousands of dollars by borrowing equipment from ALS loan closets, which contain mostly used and donated equipment. There is no charge to borrow this equipment and you may use it for as long as you need it.
What can I borrow from equipment loan closets?
ALS loan closets often have devices such as walkers, wheelchairs, ramps, bathroom equipment, transfer devices, lift chairs, and communication devices. Most loan closets do not lend out respiratory equipment or hospital beds. Keep in mind that every loan closet is different and that device availability will vary.
How will I know what equipment I need?
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When you attend an ALS clinic, your team of medical professionals will monitor your progress and make timely recommendations for specific devices. Some loan closets may require a doctor’s prescription or referral before loaning you certain devices.
You can also ask your local ALS organization if someone can come to your home to help determine which devices would be most helpful for you. Your doctor can also send orders to a home health agency for a physical or occupational therapist to come to your home to do an assessment and safety evaluation. |
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You can learn more about devices and how they could help by visiting our ALS Equipment Guide.
Equipment Safety
Consult your team of medical professionals before using any equipment for ALS. To avoid unnecessary injuries, you and your caregiver(s) should receive training on how to safely and properly use each piece of equipment.
Which devices are covered by insurance?Some devices like ventilators and power wheelchairs are covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance. Other items, like shower and toileting devices, are not covered, which means you’d have to pay out of pocket. Learn more about which devices are covered on our Paying for Equipment page.
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How can I find a loan closet near me?
ALS loan closets are typically managed by local ALS nonprofit organizations, so you will want to search for a local ALS organization and inquire about their loan closet. There may also be some non-ALS loan closets in your area that lend equipment like walkers, wheelchairs, and shower chairs.
If you borrow a piece of equipment that doesn’t work for you, ask for assistance or try something else. When you no longer need a piece of equipment, return it promptly so others can use it. And if you purchase a piece of equipment that you no longer need or that doesn’t work for you, you can help others by donating it to your local loan closet.
If you borrow a piece of equipment that doesn’t work for you, ask for assistance or try something else. When you no longer need a piece of equipment, return it promptly so others can use it. And if you purchase a piece of equipment that you no longer need or that doesn’t work for you, you can help others by donating it to your local loan closet.
