If you are entering your golden years, choosing medical supplies is going to be crucial for a longer and happier life. Choosing the right medical supplies can be difficult, and it may not be something pleasant to do. To make things a little easier for you, we have compiled a comprehensive guide on choosing the right medical supplies for you.
The Basics You Will Need
Some medical supplies are good to have on hand as you age, regardless of your situation. Below is a quick list of the basic medical supplies you should have on hand as you get older.
- Everyday Bandages
- Rolls of Gauze
- Medical Tape
- Heating Pads
- A Blood Pressure Reader
Other Medical Supplies You Might Consider
First off, it is always a good idea to research your particular conditions and see what type of medical supplies are suggested to best suit your situation. You should always talk to your doctor as well. Have transparent discussions with your doctors and medical professionals about your conditions and what they recommend for medical supplies you should have in your home in regard to any medical concerns or conditions you may have.
When you are considering purchasing a piece of medical equipment, you will want to learn as much as you can about the products and medical supplies you are considering purchasing. You will want to know what the products are made out of and the quality of the materials. Some materials will do a better job than others, such as some materials are more absorbent, some are tougher and last longer and others bend or flex better. Also, if you have any allergies that affect your skin, such as being allergic to latex, it’s good to know what materials those products have in them, so you know which ones to avoid. If there is something you don’t understand about a piece of medical equipment or supplies, you can ask an associate at a reputable medical supply store. For example, if you are in the Pasadena, TX area, you can come in to Bayshore Medical Supply and ask questions, and we will do our very best to provide you with the expertise you’re looking for.
With that in mind, we listed some medical equipment that might fit your needs and how to choose the best one for you.
Compression Socks and Products
Compression products such as compression socks and hosiery are designed to reduce swelling and increase blood flow in areas such as legs and feet. If you have edema (fluid buildup) in your legs, varicose veins, stand or sit for long periods of time or just have pain in your legs and feet, compression socks might be a good consideration.
There are five levels of compression, 8-15 mmHg, 15-20 mmHg and 20-30 mmHg. 30-40 mmHg and 40-50 mmHg. You can find out more about each level in our Compression Socks and Stockings, the Ultimate Guide. Also, in that guide is just about everything you need to know on how to choose the right compression socks for you.
Finding the Right Lift Chair
One of your medical supply considerations might be a lift chair if you are having a problem standing up after sitting for a while. A lift chair is a chair that can lift you from a seated position to standing. Other reasons to consider a lift chair include reducing swelling and pain and to help with relaxation and sleep. The categories of lift chairs are broken up by how many positions they are capable of, two position chair, three position chair, and infinite position or also what is known as zero gravity chairs. For two position chairs, when the chair is reclining and the footrest is going up, the angle between the backrest and the seat does not change. For three position chairs, when the chair is reclining and the footrest is going up, the backrest reclines back farther, opening the angle between the backrest and the seat. This gives them more reclining ability than the two-position chair. With the infinite position chair, the back and footrest work independently of one another, allowing for more complete control over the position you want to be in.
Lift chairs can come in different fabrics, styles, and widths. Lift chairs also have several different extra features to choose from, depending on your needs. Some additional options on lift chairs come with therapeutic heat and massage. These will also be controlled by your remote to control adjustable settings like massage zone, massage time and adjustable heat. If you want to learn more about the different features of a lift chair, read Features of Lift Chairs -Improving Quality of Life.
How to Choose the Right Power Chair for You.
If you are finding it hard to walk around, you might consider choosing a power chair or mobility scooter. Power scooters are great for those who need more help getting around and going longer distances, giving you a more mobile life, and helping to retain a sense of independence. Mobility scooters are available in 3- and 4-wheel models. The power chairs and scooters sold at Bayshore Medical Supply come with a joystick on the armrest that can turn the chair in a complete circle. Choosing the right power chair comes down to your particular needs such as what you plan to use it for, how wide you need your chair, and what accessories you need on it. These accessories could include, storage, cup holders, baskets, and bells. Depending on how you plan to use your power chair you may need to choose between standard or all terrain tires. Because there are many different options to choose from, it may be best to talk with an associate at a medical supply store like ours in Pasadena, TX and tell them what your needs are. You will be matched up with the best solutions that fit your needs.
Other Medical Supply Considerations
How long will you need it?
Some medical supplies, like a blood pressure reader, are good to have around no matter what. Other medical supplies, such as knee scooters and knee walkers, may depend on the reason you’re getting the piece of equipment. If your condition is temporary, for example, recovery from surgery, you may not need it after. In these cases, you may consider renting your medical equipment rather than buying it. If you are thinking of renting instead of buying, you will want to consider the length of time you will need the equipment and compare the rental costs over that time versus the upfront costs for full purchase.
Other reasons to rent.
There are other reasons to consider renting. If you are considering a bigger purchase such as a lift chair or power chairs, but are not sure they are for you, you could consider renting one and trying it out before buying it. Also, if you are on a fixed income and just cannot afford an upfront lump sum, renting with smaller, monthly payments may be a better option for you.
Find reviews, ratings, and information.
Of course, whether you are buying or renting medical supplies of any kind, you should want to know how well it works. Look up the brands and the models to see if other people would recommend them. You can also visit any number of consumer websites and read about what others think of the brands and products you are thinking of purchasing. You can also talk to your doctor, and your medical supply specialist at a medical supply store such as us here at Bayshore Medical Supply.
A word of caution though. There is rarely a 5-star brand. In most cases, no brand can please everyone. You will more than likely find a few negative reviews on just about any brand. The best thing you can do is read them, and judge for yourself if their situation applies to you.
Our conclusion.
Some medical supplies, such as bandages, a blood pressure meter, and the like, are good to have on hand no matter what. Other medical supplies, such as lift chairs, knee walkers and wheelchairs, depend on your situation. Research and learn about what medical supplies fits your situations and conditions, what they are made out of, how recommended they are, and their purchasing options (renting or buying). With this knowledge you can make informed decisions about the medical supplies you need in order to extend your comfort and independence in your golden years.
Bayshore Medical Supply is located at 4205 Spencer Hwy, Pasadena, TX 77504. We’re open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9:00am to 5:30pm, Thursday 9:00am to 8:00pm, and Saturday from 10:00am to 2:00pm. For over 20 years we have been a leading supplier of medical supplies for Pasadena, TX and the whole Southeast Houston, TX area.
