Dallas, Texas – The Senior Files, a Dallas-based website providing senior care solutions, introduces a new service to help seniors acquire needed medical equipment. On the “Home Equipment Exchange”, users can sell, donate or buy used or new medical equipment that help seniors live safely and with minimal assistance. Found at http://www.thesilverfiles.com/
With over 20 years of experience in long term care, Kimberly Shoaf, co-owner and Director of Business Development for The Silver Files, understands how obtaining equipment can be a stressful issue. “People cannot always afford the costs of obtaining equipment or do not know what to do with equipment that is no longer being used,” says Shoaf. “One of our goals in developing our website is to connect people who have similar needs. One person may have a walker that they no longer need, while another person is looking for a walker because their mother is returning home from hospitalization.”
Through this new service, website users list their equipment for sale or donation under different categories of home medical equipment. This free service allows visitors to search through different categories, save their finds, and contact sellers. Sellers must list the condition of the item, and The Silver Files encourages visitors to shop locally to verify the condition by viewing the item ahead of purchase. “Best of all, you can handle this all from home and see what is available before making a decision and spending your money,” adds Shoaf. Senior care businesses are also invited to post their inventory in order to improve the range of equipment selection.
There are many medical conditions that may necessitate the use of medical equipment, but persons may also desire the additional support that certain types of equipment provide. “Home medical equipment includes assistive devices and supplies that help people overcome any limitations in function and gain their independence,”
With many seniors choosing to delay or avoid transfer to senior care facilities, the home environment may also require proper outfitting to accommodate any present or future needs. The Senior Files also provides information on modifying homes for changing needs as people age. A recent spotlight interview with Don Bybee, owner of Don Bybee Construction, advises users on how to obtain services for home building or remodeling through a contractor having specialized training through the AARP and National Home Builders Association. Known as Certified Aging In Place Specialists (CAPS), contractors can modify a home with necessary equipment installations like grab bars or roll-in showers. “With a few modifications, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms, seniors are able to stay at home as long as possible,” says Bybee in his interview, viewable at http://www.thesilverfiles.com/
Typically, the expense of obtaining certain medical equipment or modifying homes may be covered by Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans benefits, or long term care insurance. However, many times the cost of equipment is an out-of-pocket expense. “In these cases, shopping around can save you considerable expense,” says Shoaf. Shoaf also notes the importance of having proper equipment and home modifications that fit individual needs. “Your healthcare provider can recommend what equipment you may require.”
Those interested in learning more about The Silver Files can visit http://www.thesilverfiles.com.
About The Silver Files
The Silver Files connects people through an online resource of diverse solutions to address the unique needs of older adults. Through a variety of local senior care listings and resources, The Silver Files brings the choice needed to plan well, and the control and balance required to plan effectively. For more information, visit http://www.thesilverfiles.com.
