National Assistive Technology Act Data System

VATS’ contracted adult durable medical equipment reuse provider, The Foundation for Rehabilitation Equipment and Endowment (F.R.E.E.), provided a 94-year old Veteran and his family valuable rehabilitation equipment, which allowed him to receive total care in his home. The son, the primary care giver, had to quit his job to become the full-time care for his dad last year, which makes making ends meet challenging. The son also reported that he himself only had one arm and as with many caregivers, he had repeatedly injured his back due to lack of appropriate in-home equipment. Now that his dad can no longer stand, providing the best care for him takes a special lift system called a sit-to-stand. These can range from $1,000- 3,000. This lift harnesses the person and allows them to come to a full standing position supported by the device. In their statewide inventory, F.R.E.E. found the appropriate sit-to-stand equipment and gifted this equipment to the family. The son can now safely help his dad into a chair, wheelchair, or bed. It also makes day-to-day bathing and changing his dad much easier. This family is an inspiration of selfless care and the triumph of keeping their family home together through the holidays!