Assistive Devices

Assistive devices can be equipment that helps people get around - mobility aids - like wheelchairs, walkers, canes etc. or they can be positioning aids like proper cushions and supports for different problems such as scoliosis, stroke etc.  A resident might need to use an assistive device for a short period, for example, to recover from a surgery, or it might be a long term need, as in the case of someone with severe arthritis.
 

Short Term Needs

If the need is short term, St. Patrick's Home may be able to loan the device to the resident.  The Home keeps several wheelchairs, walkers, canes, etc. for such times but it is important to remember that they are not customized to the resident.  Improperly fitting wheelchairs can truly be very uncomfortable and can lead to problems in skin integrity, posture, breathing and eating.
 

Long Term Needs

For long-term use, the resident must have a custom-built wheelchair. 

To obtain a wheelchair, the resident must be assessed by an Occupational Therapist (OT). 

When it is determined that a resident will need a wheelchair in the long term, one of the Rehabilitation Service Workers at St. Patrick's Home will speak to the resident's Power of Attorney to obtain permission for a  wheelchair assessment with an Occupational Therapist (OT). The OT decides what the best-fitting chair is for the resident and the wheelchair will be built specifically for the resident's needs (custom-built).

Family members may speak directly to the rehabilitation service workers to arrange for an OT assessment.

There is often a cost for the wheelchair assessment but up to 75% of the cost of the wheelchair itself is covered by the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care program called Assistive Devices Program (ADP). As well, if the resident has his/her own insurance, the balance of the cost may be covered by that.

Walkers are not custom built but the OT must assess the resident to determine  which is the best one for the resident and orders it through the Home's vendor of choice.  This OT assessment is required to ensure to coverage by ADP.   Up to 75% of the cost of the walker would be covered through ADP.

If a cane is required rather than a walker, then the rehabilitation assistant can order the appropriate cane for the resident.  The cost of canes is not covered by ADP.

Cushions can be built for some people, and because there are many kinds of cushions, this requires the OT to assess.  There can be the "up to 75%" coverage by ADP here too.

A more complete list of ADP-covered articles (up to 75%)

• manual wheelchairs, power wheelchairs and electric scooters
• power add-on devices for manual wheelchairs
• positioning devices (cushions, back and head supports, etc.)
• dynamic positioning devices (power tilt and recline)
• forearm crutches
• wheeled walkers
• specialized pediatric walkers, strollers, standers (not a St. Pat's issue)
   

Cost - Summary

The Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care has a program called the Assistive Devices Program which can cover up to 75% of the cost of specified Assistive Devices, when an assessment has been done by an ADP-approved Occupational Therapist.  See the government web site for ADP for specific details.

As well, when the resident has their own insurance, the remaining cost may be covered by that insurance.
 

Where to Buy

St. Patrick's Home has a preferred vendor, Ontario Medical Supply (DRAFT). They will do minor repairs at no cost for St. Patrick's Home residents.  A list of suppliers is available at the bottom of this page.

 

LINK for more information:

Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care Assistive Devices Program

The site covers:

• Goal of ADP Program

• How much funding you can get

• What eligibility criteria must you meet to apply for ADP funding

• What is an ADP Authorizer

• What is a Vendor

• How do you apply for ADP funding

ADP VENDORS FOR W/C, POSITIONING & AMBULATION: