How to Get a Free Shower Chair?

How to Get a Free Shower Chair?

Are you or a loved one looking for a way to make bath time safer and more comfortable without breaking the bank? You’ve come to the right place! Shower chairs are super helpful for folks who have trouble moving around, but they can cost a pretty penny. Don’t worry, though – there are actually several ways to get a shower chair for free. In this post, we’ll walk you through all the different methods to snag one without spending a dime.

Quick Answer: To get a free shower chair, try contacting your insurance provider, exploring government assistance programs, reaching out to non-profit organizations, checking online platforms, or asking your healthcare provider for help.

My Personal Experience with Getting a Free Shower Chair

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let me share a quick story. A few years back, my grandma Betty needed a shower chair after she had a fall. We were worried sick about her safety, but money was tight. I remember feeling pretty overwhelmed trying to figure out how to help her.

After some digging around, I found out about a local non-profit that helps seniors. They were amazing! Not only did they give us a free shower chair, but they also showed us how to set it up safely. Seeing the relief on Grandma Betty’s face when she could shower without fear was priceless. It really drove home how important these chairs can be – and how awesome it is that there are ways to get them for free.

1. Check with Your Insurance Company

First things first, give your insurance company a ring. Many insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover what they call “durable medical equipment” or DME. Guess what? Shower chairs often fall into this category! Here’s what you need to do:

• Look over your policy: Dig out your insurance paperwork and see if it mentions covering shower chairs or DME.
• Get a doctor’s note: Your doctor needs to write a prescription saying you need the chair for medical reasons.
• File a claim: Work with your doctor and a medical supply store to send in a claim to your insurance.
• Follow up: Don’t be shy about calling your insurance to check on your claim.

Medicare Coverage for Shower Chairs

If you’re on Medicare, listen up! Medicare Part B might cover your shower chair if your doctor says it’s medically necessary. Here’s the deal:

• You’ll need to pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount
• Your Part B deductible applies
• Medicare will cover the other 80%

Remember, every case is different, so it’s best to chat with Medicare directly to get the full scoop on your situation.

2. Look into Government Help

Uncle Sam might be able to lend a hand! There are several government programs that can help you get a free shower chair:

Medicaid

Medicaid rules are different in each state, but many cover DME like shower chairs. Here’s what to do:

1. Find your state’s Medicaid website
2. Look for info on DME coverage
3. If you can’t find what you need, give them a call

Veterans Affairs (VA)

If you’re a veteran, the VA might hook you up with a free shower chair. They’re pretty good about helping vets get the equipment they need. Reach out to your local VA office to learn more.

3. Reach Out to Non-Profit Organizations

There are tons of awesome non-profits out there that want to help people get the medical equipment they need. Some places to check out include:

• Free Wheelchair Mission: They sometimes offer other types of equipment besides wheelchairs.
• Ability Tools: They have a cool program where you can borrow medical equipment.
• Local churches and community centers: Many run programs to help people with disabilities.

Don’t be afraid to ask around in your community. You might be surprised at how many people and organizations are willing to help!

4. Hunt for Freebies Online

The internet can be a goldmine for finding free stuff, including shower chairs. Here are some places to look:

Freecycle

Freecycle is this cool website where people give away things they don’t need anymore. It’s all about keeping stuff out of landfills and helping others. Here’s how to use it:

1. Go to freecycle.org
2. Find your local group
3. Search for “shower chair” or “bath chair”
4. If you don’t see any, post a “wanted” ad

Craigslist

Good old Craigslist can be a great place to find free or super cheap shower chairs. Check out the “free” section or search for shower chairs in the for-sale area. Just be safe when meeting up with strangers!

Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace is another spot to look for free or low-cost shower chairs. You can also join local “Buy Nothing” groups on Facebook where people give away all sorts of stuff for free.

5. Ask Your Doctor or Nurse

Your healthcare team can be a huge help in getting a free shower chair. They might:

• Know about local programs that give out free medical equipment
• Have connections with medical supply companies
• Be able to write a strong letter to your insurance company

Don’t be shy about asking for help. That’s what they’re there for!

6. Check with Local Senior Centers

If you’re a senior or caring for one, local senior centers can be a fantastic resource. Many have programs to help seniors get the equipment they need to stay safe at home. They might:

• Have a lending program for shower chairs
• Know about local charities that provide free medical equipment
• Be able to connect you with volunteers who can help you find what you need

7. Look into Equipment Recycling Programs

Some areas have programs that collect used medical equipment, clean it up, and give it to people who need it. These programs are great because they help both the environment and people in need. To find one:

1. Search online for “medical equipment recycling” plus your city or state
2. Ask at your local hospital or medical supply store
3. Check with your state’s Department of health

8. Fundraising and Crowdfunding

If all else fails, you might consider starting a fundraiser to get your shower chair. While this isn’t exactly “free,” it can help you get the chair without paying for it yourself. Some ideas:

• Start a GoFundMe campaign
• Ask friends and family to chip in instead of giving gifts for your next birthday
• See if your place of worship would be willing to take up a collection

Tips for Success

No matter which method you choose, here are some tips to help you get that free shower chair:

• Be persistent: Don’t give up if the first place you try can’t help. Keep trying!
• Get everything in writing: If someone promises you a free chair, ask for it in writing.
• Be prepared to explain your need: Practice explaining why you need the chair and how it will help you.
• Say thank you: A little gratitude goes a long way and might even help others in the future.

Wrapping It Up

Getting a free shower chair might take some work, but it’s totally doable. Whether you go through your insurance, a government program, a charity, or find one online, there are lots of ways to get the help you need. Remember, there’s no shame in asking for help – we all need a hand sometimes!

If you’ve tried everything and still can’t find a free shower chair, don’t lose hope. Some medical supply stores offer payment plans or discounts for people who are having a tough time. And remember, your safety is worth the effort.

Have you had any luck getting a free shower chair? Or do you know of other resources we didn’t mention? Share your experiences in the comments – your knowledge could really help someone else out!

Helpful Resources

Organization	Contact Info	What They Offer
Medicare	1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227)	Possible coverage for shower chairs
Medicaid	Varies by state	Possible coverage for DME
Veterans Affairs	1-800-827-1000	Assistance for veterans
Free Wheelchair Mission	freewheelchairmission.org	Free mobility equipment
Ability Tools	abilitytools.org	Equipment loan program

Remember, your health and safety are super important. A shower chair can make a big difference in preventing falls and helping you feel more secure. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help – there are people and organizations out there who want to lend a hand. Stay safe and happy bathing!