Adaptive equipment, which helps compensate for lost range of motion and functional disability caused by arthritis, can be extremely helpful. Some patients do not realize how much help is available by way of adaptive equipment. Other patients do not think adaptive equipment is affordable and assume such equipment carries a hefty price tag.

An occupational therapist can help determine your needs. Medicare and Medicaid will pay for the assessment through a certified home-health agency or the outpatient rehabilitation department of a hospital. Some equipment is covered by Medicare and Medicaid, but not all. You must pay for equipment not covered by insurance. Suppliers and providers of adaptive equipment usually know what is and what isn't covered by insurance.

Besides items like reachers, raised toilet seats, shower benches, and other equipment that is useful in the kitchen, bathroom, or bedroom, you may need to adapt your car or make your home more accessible to preserve your independence. If you are purchasing a new car, check with the manufacturer to see if there are programs offered to help pay for any adaptations you require. Similarly, if you are considering a remodel to make your home more accessible, check to see if you qualify for any loans or grants to help pay for the necessary work. The message here is check before you commit — there may be financial help available.

Your purchases, if not covered by insurance, may be counted as medical expenses on your federal income tax if your doctor prescribes the equipment for you. Consult with a tax preparer if you have questions.

If swimming is prescribed as treatment for your arthritis, the cost of constructing a home swimming pool may be partly deductible as a medical expense. It must be proven to the Internal Revenue Service that the pool is for therapeutic purposes and not recreational purposes if questioned. Similar rules would apply to hot tubs.