Resources 3b
Medical Equipment Resources
Here are resources to help you obtain durable medical equipment
One helpful information source about such equipment is AbleData (www.abledata.com; 800-227-0216), a federally-sponsored program that provides comprehensive information on assistive products and rehabilitation equipment for people with disabilities, including frail seniors. AbleData’s database contains objective information on over 40,000 assistive products. (AbleData does not sell or endorse products.) Staff also are available to respond to telephone, email or written requests from family members and caregivers for information about assistive technology options and programs.
Other resources include:
Local service organizations, such as the Arthritis Foundation (631-427-8272) and Rehab Solutions (516-867-0089) that operate free “loan closets” for medical equipment and supplies.
TRAID
Administered by the Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs, the TRAID (Technology Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities) program coordinates statewide activities to increase access and acquisition of assistive technology for people of all ages and disabilities. service connects people with disabilities who need affordable means of acquiring devices with people who wish to sell or donate such devices.
The Justice Center also participates in a multi-state online equipment exchange collaborative to help facilitate equipment exchanges between individuals. Items can be found at lower than market prices or for no cost on its website at www.getATstuff.com.
Long Island Communities of Practice (631-668-4858; www.licop.org) is the regional TRAID Center providing services to Nassau and Suffolk residents.