DME items may be purchased at:
See below for examples of Durable Medical Equipment and how they may be useful for you around the home, in the bathroom, and with getting dressed.
Tub transfer bench or a shower chair: Can be helpful when showering, especially immediately after total joint surgery. Those with decreased balance, decreased physical strength or mobility difficulties before or after surgery will find a tub transfer bench or shower chair helpful and safer during your recovery.
Toilet seat risers or over the toilet commodes: Increases the height of your toilet seat. If it is difficult for you to rise from your toilet prior to surgery, you will likely benefit from elevation and arm support. You want to make sure your feet touch the floor and you are able to rise easily when considering elevation.
Grab bars: A variety exist, and each bathroom set up is unique. Grab bars install into the wall or tub to improve stability and safety when in the bathroom.
If you find that you tire easily when standing prior to surgery, or if you have any concerns regarding your balance or maneuvering while in the bathroom before or after surgery, having something stable to hold onto would be beneficial.
Note: Grab bars must be installed, suction cup grab bars are NOT safe.
Featherlite reacher: Reachers can be helpful when dressing, picking up items off the floor, or light objects on a cabinet or shelf.
Watch this video to see how the reacher can help with putting on and taking off pants.
Sock aid: Allows you to put on your socks more easily. Sock aids can be helpful when dressing, specifically when putting on your socks so you do not have to bend forward, or if you have difficulty bending.
Watch this video to see how a sock aid works.
Long-handled shoehorn: Allows you to put on your shoes more easily. Can be helpful when putting on your shoes, so you don't have to bend forward; assists with getting your heels into your shoes.
Watch this video on how to use a long-handled shoehorn.
If you have more specific questions about individualized needs or home environments, an occupational therapist can help. Please let your orthopedic team know you would like to speak with an occupational therapist before surgery. Also see our home safety checklist page to ensure your home is safe and comfortable after surgery.