Buying Special Equipment

There are many different gadgets and pieces of special equipment that can make daily activities easier.

For example:

• jar openers, bottle openers and milk carton grippers
• sock-aids (to help you put socks on) and long-handled shoe horns
• bathtub rails and seats

Some of these items can be purchased in regular department stores, while others are found only in specialty shops. When looking for special equipment, consider:

1. Is it guaranteed?

2. Can it be returned if it doesn't meet your needs?

3. Does the store offer a loan period so you can try the device at home before purchasing it?

4. Is the cost of the device covered by any type of medical insurance?

5. If it is equipment that needs to be installed, is the cost of installation covered in the cost of the equipment itself?

Refer to the yellow pages under rehabilitation equipment for a list of suppliers in your area. Many distributors also offer their products online.