Author Archives: Brett F
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How to Use a Hoyer Lift for Beginners
For patients who lack mobility, a Hoyer lift is an excellent medical device. Learn how to use your Hoyer lift at home with our step-by-step guide.
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Does Medicare Cover Mobility Scooters? What You Need to Know
Unfortunately, we often lose mobility as we age. Since this is such a common issue, there are ample equipment options that have emerged to assist in mobility. One such product is a mobility scooter. These scooters help individuals dealing with decreased mobility gain their independence back. Though these mobility scooters can be extremely useful, they can also be a bit expensive. You may be wondering, “Will my health insurance help with this expensive? Does Medicare cover scooters?” These are completely valid questions, and we have the answers. Read on to learn more about Medicare-approved mobility scooters. Does Medicare Cover Mobility Scooters? The short answer: yes. Medicare Part B covers necessary medical supplies like mobility scooters, preventative care, or medical services, such as outpatient care. To qualify for Medicare Part B, you must be at least 65 years old and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident for a minimum of five consecutive years. It’s recommended that you enroll for Part B as soon as you are eligible to receive the standard premium cost and avoid late enrollment fees. Eligibility for Medicare-Approved Mobility Scooters Medicare Part B considers mobility scooters, walkers, and wheelchairs to be durable medical equipment (DME). In order for DME to be covered, individuals must meet the following criteria outlined in Medicare’s Wheelchair and Scooter Benefits guide: The doctor treating your condition submits a written order stating that you have a medical need for a wheelchair or scooter for use in your home.You have limited mobility and meet all of these conditions: You have a health condition that causes significant difficulty moving around in your home.You’re unable to do activities of daily living (like bathing, dressing, getting in or out of a bed or chair, or using the bathroom) even with the help of a cane, crutch, or walker.You’re able to safely operate and get on and off the wheelchair or scooter, or have someone with you who is always available to help you safely use the device.Your doctor who is treating you for the condition that requires a wheelchair or scooter and your supplier are both enrolled in Medicare. You can use the equipment within your home (for example, it’s not too big to fit through doorways in your home or blocked by floor surfaces or things in its path). The specific DME you are seeking may have set requirements from Medicare regarding how you acquire the equipment. Typically, long-term scooters are available for purchase while short-term scooters may be rented from your supplier. How to Get a Scooter from Medicare Some DME requires a “prior authorization” before it can be purchased. To access this prior authorization, your supplier will need to do two things: Review the list of Medicare-approved mobility scooters that require prior authorization and submit a request. Send the required documentation to Medicare for eligibility review and approval. Once you’ve received prior authorization, you can move forward with renting or purchasing your Medicare-approved mobility scooter. It’s important to note that Medicare Plan B has restrictions regarding covering DME. Part of the eligibility approval process focuses on your healthcare provider and supplier. Both of these institutes must be enrolled in Medicare to receive approval on claims. If they are not, Medicare won’t approve and pay for claims. Cost of Mobility Scooters The cost of a Medicare-approved mobility scooter will vary depending on your qualifications and supplier. If your DME supplier is enrolled with Medicare and is willing to accept assignment costs, Medicare will cover a large portion of your scooter. In addition to your Part B deductible, you’ll be responsible for paying 20% of the amount approved by Medicare. However, if your supplier does not accept costs or you are denied by Medicare, you’ll have to pay out of pocket for your mobility scooter. We’ll cover where to purchase mobility scooters in the next section. Where to Purchase Mobility Scooters Once your healthcare provider has prescribed a mobility scooter, it’s time to start shopping around. Your provider may have a list of recommended Medicare-approved suppliers, or you may have the option to shop around. If you’re searching on your own, look no further than Amica Medical Supply! We offer a selection of mobility scooters in both 3 and 4 wheel configurations. Our portable scooters are a lightweight option for those on-the-go individuals while our standard scooters make the perfect addition to everyday mobility. We also provide handy equipment, such as ramps, extra batteries, and mobility scooter accessories. Give us a call today at 1-888-939-0774 to learn more about how our mobility scooters work with Medicare
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Incontinence Care for the Elderly: Causes, Treatment, & Tips
As we age, we often become more susceptible to varying health conditions, such as urinary incontinence. Urinary incontinence occurs when an individual releases urine on accident. There are a handful of causes for incontinence, many of which have treatments or controllable methods for managing this issue. It’s best to speak with your healthcare provider about the potential cause and treatment of incontinence. However, we’ve created a guide to this condition to help you navigate these bodily changes calmly. Keep reading to learn more about incontinence care for the elderly. Incontinence Causes There are a variety of reasons an individual may experience incontinence. In the short term, incontinence can be caused by issues such as a urinary tract infection or irritation. However, there may be a deeper health condition at hand causing long-term incontinence. These include but are not limited to: Prostatitis (an inflamed prostate gland) Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (an enlarged prostate)Damaged nerves from surgeryWeak or overactive bladder muscles Damaged nerves from diabetes or Parkinson’s diseasePelvic organ prolapse With such an extensive list of causes, it’s important to schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to determine your specific cause. Most incontinence causes can be determined by a simple urine or blood test. Incontinence Treatments When it comes to incontinence, there are a handful of urinary incontinence treatments for the elderly. If one doesn’t seem to be working, speak with your healthcare provider about switching to another treatment. Urinary Schedule One urinary incontinence treatment for the elderly is a urinary schedule. By creating set times that you use the bathroom, you can train your bladder to control the urge to urinate. As your bladder becomes more familiar with these set times, you can attempt to extend the time between trips to test your control and monitor improvements. Fluid Management Fluids such as caffeine and alcohol can increase your need to use the bathroom. By limiting or avoiding these types of beverages, you can try to gain some control over your bladder. Additionally, drinking late at night or consuming too much liquid will increase your incontinence accidents. Be mindful of when you are drinking throughout the day and monitor how much liquid your body is intaking. If you are unable to locate a bathroom quickly at a given location, you may want to consider limiting your fluid intake. Medications For individuals who don’t mind adding medication to their days, this may be the best urinary incontinence treatment plan. Medications such as anticholinergics or alpha-blockers may help limit this condition. Talk with your healthcare provider to determine if this is the right treatment route for you and what medication may work best. Medical Devices Catheters, urethral inserts, and pessary rings are all medical devices that can be used to slow or stop incontinence. Though some of these devices can be bought over the counter, it’s best to speak with your healthcare provider about this option to determine whether it is a worthwhile investment for your condition. Surgery In extreme cases, surgery may be a viable urinary incontinence treatment for the elderly. These may include prolapse surgery, sling procedures, or bladder neck suspensions. Surgeries are commonly reserved for individuals who are unable to slow or stop their incontinence with other treatment methods and should be discussed with a medical professional. Tips for Managing Incontinence If treatments aren’t an option at the moment, there are a few tips that can help you manage incontinence care for the elderly. Invest in Supplies Since this is such a common health condition, many supplies have been invented to improve incontinence care for the elderly. These include adult diapers and briefs, protective underwear, bladder control pads, underpads, skin care products, and more. These are an excellent choice for individuals who are unable to reach a bathroom in enough time or are in public locations where a bathroom is not a viable option. Try Pelvic Floor Exercises Pelvic floor exercises, or Kegel exercises, may seem uncomfortable at first, but they can do wonders in strengthening the weakened muscles that may be causing incontinence. Stronger muscles allow you to restrict your bladder and provide you more time to locate a bathroom. Track Your Schedule Incontinence care for the elderly may involve keeping a log of bathroom activity. Not only will this help caregivers become familiar with when the elderly may need to use the bathroom, but it can also assist the healthcare provider in understanding the extent of the issue. Keep a Clear Path For elderly individuals who may be experiencing medical conditions such as Alzheimer’s, it can be incredibly difficult to navigate their way to the bathroom. Make sure there is a clear path leading to the bathroom, void of any tripping hazards or other potential dangers. Stay Positive and Patient Incontinence is a common health condition, but it may cause feelings of embarrassment or shame for the individual living through it. As a caregiver, it’s important to remember that a positive and patient attitude can go a long way in making the elderly feel more comfortable with the situation. Have open communication and understand that accidents can happen. Prepare for Accidents With Amica When it comes to Incontinence care for the elderly, Amica is your one-stop-shop for all the supplies you’ll need. We’ve made it our mission to provide the highest quality incontinence products so you don’t have to worry about accidents. As the largest online distributor for top brands in the medical supply industry, we have everything you’ll need to make living with incontinence just a little easier. Give us a call today at 1-888-939-0774 to learn more about our incontinence products
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6 Effective Compression Tights & Socks for Varicose Veins
With vascular issues on the rise in America, it’s no surprise that we’ve seen an increase in vein-related conditions across the country. Nearly 40% of the U.S. population may suffer from Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI), a vascular condition that can lead to varicose veins. Varicose veins refer to the condition in which your veins become enlarged. Some individuals may experience pain or discomfort from this condition, while others may not notice any symptoms aside from the appearance. When it comes to treating varicose veins, there are a few options, including exercises and compression socks. Compression socks are often a top choice for dealing with varicose veins. The pressure from these socks helps to compress the veins, allowing the valves to function properly. These socks can also provide additional protection from the sun and help with overall recovery in the instance of a leg injury. Keep in mind, however, that compression socks are not for everyone. They may be too tight or uncomfortable for individuals to wear. In this case, speak with a medical professional about the best course of action moving forward. If compression socks are the recommended treatment for your varicose veins, you’re in luck. We’ve compiled a list of the best compression tights and socks for varicose veins. Read on to find out which pair is right for you. Compression Tights & Socks for Varicose Veins There are plenty of options when it comes to compression socks for varicose veins. Choose from a variety of compression tights, thigh-high socks, and stockings for varicose veins. Compression Tights UltraSheer Compression Pantyhose The first compression tights for varicose veins on our list is the UltraSheer Compression Pantyhose. This pair of compression tights boasts a comfortable waistband, fashionable appearance, and durable toe and heel material. This style is a blend of nylon and spandex yarn with a silicone softener for the ultimate comfortable feel. This pair is best for minor leg and ankle swelling and is offered in sizes small to extra large. Enjoy these tights in 15-20 mmHg, 20-30 mmHg, and 30-40 mmHg options. Prices may vary depending on the level of mmHg. UltraSheer Compression Maternity Pantyhose It’s not uncommon for pregnant women to experience varicose veins. The UltraSheer Compression Maternity Pantyhose offer a soft, silky look with a comfortable waistband. Enjoy therapeutic relief for ankle and leg swelling with these durable pantyhose. These enjoyable compression tights for varicose legs are offered in 15-20 mmHg and 20-30 mmHg options. Prices may vary depending on the level of mmHg. Prices may vary depending on the level of mmHg. Compression Stockings UltraSheer Compression Stockings w/ Silcone Lace Band The Jobst UltraSheer Compression Stockings feature a fashionable yet comfortable silicone lace band. These stockings for varicose veins are ideal for optimizing leg health and keeping your legs cool and dry. Seamlessly knit for a soft and silky feel, these stockings are offered in 15-20 mmHg, 20-30 mmHg, and 30-40 mmHg options. Prices may vary depending on the level of mmHg. UltraSheer Graduated Compression Stockings Keep your legs cool and dry in the UltraSheer Graduated Compression Stockings. Offered in 15-20 mmHg, 20-30 mmHg, and 30-40 mmHg options, their durable toe and heel material will withstand the test of time. Enjoy comfort and fashion all in one with this easy-to-wear compression stocking choice. Prices may vary depending on the level of mmHg. Knee- or Thigh-High Compression Socks Men’s 20-30 mmHg Ribbed Style Thigh High When it comes to compression socks for varicose veins, these are a top choice. The Men’s 20-30 mmHg Ribbed Style Thigh High Compression Socks are built with reinforced heels for long-lasting wear and shoe abrasion resistence. Made with an anti-bacterial additive, these socks block odors and keep your legs dry and cool all day. The ribbed design combines a fashionable style with a gradient compression therapy. This $82 pair of socks comes in sizes small to extra large. Men’s 20-30 mmHg Knee High Ribbed Compression Socks The final type of compression socks for varicose veins on our list is the Men’s 20-30 mmHg Knee High Ribbed Compression Socks. The non-constricting comfort band and fashionable ribbed design combine style and efficacy all in one. Crafted with soft micro-fibers, nylon, and spandex, these socks for varicose veins keep your legs cool and dry all day long while preventing unpleasant odors. Minimize the risk of shoe abrasion with the reinforced heel of these $85 socks. Combine Comfort and Functionality with Amica When you’re ready to invest in a quality pair of compression tights or socks for varicose veins, consider one of Amica’s many comfortable options. At Amica Medical Supply, we place our customer’s satisfaction at the top of our priority list. That’s why we focus on finding the best quality clothing and medical supplies for all of our customers. We offer the largest selection of top brand products so you can find the right supplies for your needs. Give us a call today at 1-888-939-0774 to learn more about our compression clothing options and how we can help you find the perfect pair
