Who Uses DME?
Many people use durable medical equipment (DME). In fact, in a 2001 survey, over 15 million Americans with disabilities reported using DME (National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research, 2001). In a survey conducted by the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP, 2003), one-third of persons surveyed who were 50 years of age and older reported using some type of equipment or assistive technology. Almost one-quarter of persons 50 and older who are disabled but who do not use any specific equipment said that items such as a hearing aid, wheelchair, cane, or walker would improve their lives (AARP, 2003). The process of getting the right kind of DME to suit your needs can be confusing, frustrating and difficult. Not having the right DME can limit your ability to live and work independently and can lead to preventable conditions such as pressure sores, infections and falls. If you understand what is involved, the process of getting your gear will make more sense. What Is
