There are many tools that can make it easier for people with ALS to move around their homes, communicate, and do daily tasks. Assistive devices can also help care partners experience less burden and fatigue. Some examples of assistive devices are listed below.

Click on the red information icon to learn more about each tool! 

Meal Preparation & Feeding

Dressing

Bathing

Communication

Ambulation & Mobility

Canes

A person with ALS might use a cane to help with balance, stability, and walking as their muscles get weaker. It can prevent falls, save energy, and make walking feel safer. Canes work best in the early stages of ALS, but later, a walker or wheelchair might be needed.

Walkers

Someone with ALS would typically use a walker that provides extra stability and support, depending on their specific needs and stage of the disease.The specific walker depends on the person’s strength, balance, and energy levels

Please consult with your care team to determine the best mobility devices for you. For all wheelchairs, positioning and seat modifications are essential to preventing secondary complications such as skin breakdown or pain as the disease progresses.

Assistive devices and technology like the items listed above can help people with ALS do everyday tasks more easily. They can improve mobility, communication, and daily activities as ALS makes muscles weaker. What will you try first?

Resources

These organizations in the Omaha, NE area can assist you in obtaining the necessary assistive devices to support your daily activities.

ALS Association Durable Medical Equipment Loan Closet

Services: Provides free equipment such as wheelchairs, lifts, and shower chairs to people with ALS and their care partners

Contact:(402)- 991-8788

Address: 4242 Farnam St. Suite 650 Omaha, NE 68198

Assistive Technology Partnership (ATP)

Services: Offers free and low-cost equipment to help individuals perform tasks safely and independently, such as communication boards, ramps, lifts, and bathroom modifications.

Contact: Phone: (402) 595-1923

Address: 1313 Farnam St., Suite 305, Omaha, NE 68102

University of Nebraska Omaha

ReUse Network

Services: Provides recycled, reused, or repaired durable medical equipment (DME), adapted devices, or assistive technology.

Contact: Phone: (402) 595-1923

Address: 1313 Farnam St., Suite 305, Omaha, NE 68102

Assistive Technology Partnership

Methodist Health System Equipment Loan Program

Services: Offers free home medical equipment through a recycle-and-reuse program.

Contact: Phone: (402) 354-4000

Nebraska Methodist Health System

Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (NCDHH) Assistive Devices Loan Program

Services: Provides loans of assistive devices such as amplified phones, personal listening devices, and teletypewriters (TTY) for a three-month period.

Contact: Phone: (402) 471-3593

Nebraska Deaf Commission

Omaha Public Library Assistive Services

Services: Offers assistive technology resources, including access to specialized equipment and services for individuals with disabilities.

Contact: Phone: (402) 444-4800

Archdiocese of Omaha

AT4All

Services: Allows you to find equipment available for free loan, demonstration, or for sale.

Contact:

Kearney, NE: 308-440-8000

Lincoln, NE: 531-207-2226

Omaha, NE 402-979-0142