For seniors who find that they need a wheelchair they may not know where to turn. Most seniors live on a fixed income and may not have the extra money to put out if they are told they need to use a wheelchair. The good news is that there are programs available that can help. It’s important for people to know how to get a free wheelchair for seniors if one if is needed.
Wheelchairs are a common medical device that is needed by seniors. If someone breaks a leg or ankle or has another medical issue, they may need to be in a wheelchair for a period of time during recovery. There are options for them to get a free wheelchair to use as they recover from whatever injury it is that they may have. Those who have a more serious issue and will be in a wheelchair permanently may want to look toward government disability programs to get one they can keep ongoing. Depending on the illness or issue they are facing, there may also be organizations for that type of condition that will help.
Some of the programs that will provide a free wheelchair for seniors do so on a loaning basis. They will loan a wheelchair to be used for the duration of someone’s recovery period. Many people recovering from a fracture will only need the wheelchair for weeks or a few months, and then they would return it once they no longer need it. This system works out well, since most seniors only need the wheelchair for a short period of time.
How to Get a Free Wheelchair for Seniors
Below you will find a variety of options to consider to get a free wheelchair. Some places may give to keep permanently, while others may require you to return it once your recovery period is over. Be sure to inquire about this if you need one for a longer period of time. Contact as many places as seem like a good fit, so you can have a better chance at finding a free wheelchair to use.
Medicaid – This federally funded program helps people in the country who have a low income, are under the age of 65 and are a citizen or legal non-citizen. If you meet those qualifications, you may be approved for this healthcare program, which will provide you with a wheelchair if necessary. To get more information and apply for the program, click here.
Medicare – This program is similar to Medicaid, listed above. However, there are a few differences. This program is aimed at providing those ages 65 and up with healthcare assistance. There are no income requirements with this program, as it is open to everyone who meets the age requirement and is a citizen or legal non-citizen. Those who are approved will get help paying for most types of healthcare, including things like obtaining a free wheelchair. To get more information and apply, click here.
Health Department – Most counties around the country have a health care office. They serve the needs of those in the county, including to provide free and low cost health services to those who have a low income. Call your local health department to inquire about getting a free wheelchair. If they cannot provide you with one, they may be able to refer you to a place that can help you with it.
Veteran’s Administration (VA) – Seniors who were veterans may be able to get a free wheelchair from their local VA office. They help veterans in that area with their healthcare needs. Contact your local VA office to see if they can provide a free wheelchair or a referral to a place that will. To find your local VA office, click here.
Hospice – Check with local hospice offices in your area to see if they have a free wheelchair that you can use. They often have healthcare appliances that people can borrow. They can also provide you with a referral to other local programs that may be able to help.
Aging Centers – There are aging centers, also called senior centers, all around the country. They are good resources for the seniors who live near them. Contact the aging center near you to see if they have a free wheelchair or if they know where you could get one.
Hospitals – For those who are in a hospital when they are told they need a wheelchair, it’s a good idea to ask the nurses if they know where you can get a free one. They likely have experience helping others with this issue and may be able to point you in the right direction. They can be good source of information.
Thrift Stores – There are thrift stores all around the country. Call the ones in your area to ask if they have any wheelchairs at the time. Most thrift stores sell the items, usually for a low fee, but if you explain that you are a senior who needs one and cannot afford it, they may give it to you for free. This is especially the case if it is a thrift store run by a church or a place like the Salvation Army. They are generous in helping people who need assistance and cannot afford to pay for the items.
Marketplace – Check with the Facebook marketplace to see if there are any wheelchairs listed in there for free or low cost. Contact those who are offering a low cost one to see if you could get it for free, being that you are a senior in need and don’t have the funds to pay for it. It never hurts to ask, because some people will be generous and want to help you out.
Churches – With churches all around the country, they are great resources to help those in need. Contact churches in your area to see if they can help you obtain a free wheelchair. They may have one in their thrift store or be able to get one from someone in their congregation. You do not have to be a member of the church to get help from them.
