Manual Wheelchairs for ALS |
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A standard manual wheelchair can be propelled by the person with ALS or pushed by a caregiver. Remember that it is important to conserve your energy with ALS, so be careful not to overexert yourself. Manual wheelchairs are not as light as transport (travel) wheelchairs, but they are more comfortable and can still fold to fit into most trunks. Transport wheelchairs are significantly lighter, which means they can be easier to use for travel.
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Manual wheelchair
a non-motorized wheelchair with tall wheels that can either be hand-propelled by you or pushed by a caregiver Covered by insurance |
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Transport (travel) wheelchair
a non-motorized, lightweight, portable wheelchair that is pushed by a caregiver Not covered by insurance |
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Ramp
a fixed or portable structure that allows easier access into and around your home Note: Wheelchair ramps can cost a couple hundred dollars. Medicare does not cover them. Medicaid and private insurance typically do not either. Check your local loan closet before paying out of pocket for a ramp. |
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Offset door hinges
special expandable hinges that allow doors to open with wider clearance without having to widen the doorway itself; doors will still fully close 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.
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.
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.
