"Activities of Daily Living" (ADL) is a common healthcare term that refers to everyday self-care tasks such as dressing, bathing, and eating. The following ADL devices can help people with ALS remain more independent.
Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance do not cover all equipment, which means you may have to pay out of pocket for some devices. But before spending any of your own money, always ask your local ALS organization if you can borrow specific devices from their loan closet at no cost.
Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance do not cover all equipment, which means you may have to pay out of pocket for some devices. But before spending any of your own money, always ask your local ALS organization if you can borrow specific devices from their loan closet at no cost.
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Lift chair recliner
a remote-controlled recliner chair that helps you move between reclining, sitting, and lifted positions Note: Lift chair recliners typically cost between $300 and $500. If you have a medical prescription for a lift chair recliner, Medicare will reimburse roughly $300, which covers the motor mechanism within the chair. Many people choose not to go through the reimbursement process and either buy them outright or borrow them. |
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Button hook / zipper pull
a simple device that assists with buttoning and zippering clothes Not covered by insurance |
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Built-up utensils
soft foam utensils that are easy to grip with limited hand involvement Not covered by insurance |
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Rocker knife
a knife with a rounded blade attached to a large, easy-grip handle that allows you to cut food with one hand Not covered by insurance |
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Scoop plate / plate guard
devices that help keep food from falling off your plate; the rubber on the bottom prevents the plate from sliding around on the table Not covered by insurance |
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Reacher
a pole-like device that grabs items on the floor or otherwise out of reach Not covered by insurance |
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Universal cuff
an adaptive device worn on your hand to hold items such as utensils, razors, and writing tools Not covered by insurance |
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Long-handled shoehorn
a longer-than-normal shoehorn that can help slide your heel into your shoe without retying laces or bending as much Not covered by insurance |
About Insurance Coverage
Medicare will cover 80% of durable medical equipment (DME) that it considers long-lasting, medically necessary, and intended for home use. Medicaid and private insurance usually follow Medicare's guidelines and can pick up the remaining 20%. In order to get a piece of equipment covered, it must be properly documented by your doctor.
Equipment Safety
Consult your physical or occupational therapist before buying or using any medical equipment. Also ask your local ALS organization to assess your equipment needs.
To avoid unnecessary injuries, you and your caregiver(s) should receive training from your physical or occupational therapist on how to safely and properly use each piece of equipment.
To avoid unnecessary injuries, you and your caregiver(s) should receive training from your physical or occupational therapist on how to safely and properly use each piece of equipment.
