Bob national care planning council

Assistive Technology and Disability Aids for Seniors

A clear guide to helpful devices, home safety modifications, and Medicare coverage—so you can live safely and comfortably at home.
Assistive technology

What Is Assistive Technology?

Assistive technology includes devices, tools, and home changes that make daily life safer and easier for older adults. It can help with mobility, breathing, bathing, dressing, eating, communication, and home safety. Some equipment may be covered by Medicare when there is a medical need.

Quick Summary of Your Options

  • Devices and equipment: Mobility aids, oxygen equipment, bath safety, dining aids, therapy supports, and more.
  • Medicare-covered durable medical equipment (DME): Medicare may pay 80% if criteria are met; you may pay 20% unless you have supplemental coverage.
  • Home modifications: Grab bars, ramps, wider doorways, stairlifts, bathroom updates, and safer layouts.
  • Expert support: Care advisors, licensed contractors, and Certified Aging-in-Place Specialists (CAPS).
Assistive technology options
Medicare and Durable Medical Equipment (DME)

Medicare and Durable Medical Equipment (DME)

If your doctor prescribes a device that meets Medicare’s DME rules and you use a Medicare-enrolled supplier:
  • Medicare typically pays 80% of the approved amount after your deductible.
  • You are responsible for 20%. A Medigap plan may cover some or all of the remainder.
  • Coverage depends on medical necessity and Medicare’s definition of DME.

Medicare defines DME as equipment that:

  • Can withstand repeated use.
  • Is primarily used for a medical purpose.
  • Is not useful to someone without illness or injury.
  • Is appropriate for use in the home.

Examples that may qualify when medically necessary:

  • Wheelchairs and scooters
  • Walkers and other mobility aids
  • Home oxygen equipment
  • Lifts (e.g., patient lifts)
  • Some hospital beds and accessories
Note: Coverage varies by item and condition. Hearing aids and many home modifications are not covered by Medicare. Always confirm with Medicare, your plan, and a qualified supplier.

Common Devices and Aids for Seniors

Mobility and Transfers

  • Walkers, canes, rollators
  • Wheelchairs and scooters
  • Transfer boards, patient lifts, stairlifts
  • Ramps, thresholds, and grab bars

Breathing and Oxygen

  • Oxygen concentrators, tanks, and supplies
  • Nebulizers and respiratory supports

Sensory and Communication

  • Low-vision aids (magnifiers, large-print readers)
  • Speech and communication tools
  • Environmental controls and smart-home alerts

Daily Living Aids

  • Reachers and grip aids
  • Dressing tools (button hooks, shoehorns)
  • Home safety products (non-slip mats, bed rails)
  • Page turners, book holders, writing aids

Bath, Toileting, and Hygiene

  • Shower chairs and transfer benches
  • Raised toilet seats, commodes, toilet safety frames
  • Handheld showerheads and long-handle sponges
  • Incontinence supplies and skin care

Dining and Kitchen Aids

  • Easy-grip utensils and utensil holders
  • Non-slip mats and suction plates
  • Nosey cups and specialized drinking aids
  • Jar and bottle openers

Therapy and Supports

  • Braces and supports for back, knee, wrist, ankle, and neck
  • Compression garments and edema supports
  • Heat/cold therapy, massage and wellness devices

Special Clothing

  • Adaptive clothing and footwear for arthritis, mobility issues, incontinence, and other conditions

Home Modifications for Aging in Place

Common improvements

  • Grab bars and railings
  • Walk-in showers and zero-threshold entries
  • Widened doorways for wheelchairs Improved lighting and non-slip flooring
  • Ramps and stairlifts
  • Kitchen and bathroom layout changes for easier access

Your options

  • Do-it-yourself with guidance for minor changes
  • Hire a licensed and bonded contractor
  • Work with a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) trained to serve older adults

How to hire safely

  • Get recommendations from friends or neighbors
  • Verify license, insurance, and bonding
  • Ask for a detailed written estimate and timeline
  • Keep the down payment small; pay the balance after completion
  • Check performance history with the Better Business Bureau

Find certified pros

  • Ask your local Home Builders Association for CAPS-certified remodelers
  • Visit the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) website and search for CAPS professionals

How to Get Help Now

Talk to a Care Advisor

  • Get personalized device suggestions
  • Learn which items may be covered by Medicare or supplemental insurance
  • Find local suppliers and installers

Request a Home Safety Check

  • Schedule a virtual or in-home assessment
  • Receive a simple plan with prioritized recommendations and estimated costs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is assistive technology?
Tools and changes that make daily activities safer and easier, such as mobility aids, bath safety equipment, and home modifications.
Will Medicare cover my equipment?
Medicare may cover 80% of approved DME when it is medically necessary and prescribed by your doctor. You pay the remaining 20% unless covered by supplemental insurance. Always verify with Medicare or your plan.
What counts as DME?
Durable Medical Equipment can withstand repeated use, is used for a medical purpose, isn’t useful without illness or injury, and is appropriate for home use. Examples include wheelchairs, walkers, oxygen equipment, and patient lifts when medically necessary.
Does Medicare cover home modifications?
Generally no. Items like grab bars, ramps, or bathroom remodels are usually out-of-pocket. Some state programs, VA benefits, or community grants may help.
Should I rent or buy equipment?
It depends on how long you need it. Medicare sometimes rents certain equipment first. A Care Advisor or supplier can help you compare costs.
Can I try devices before buying?
Some suppliers offer trials or demo days. Ask about return policies and warranties.
Where do I find trusted installers?
Use CAPS-certified professionals, check licenses and reviews, and get written estimates. Your local Area Agency on Aging can also provide referrals.

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