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I have been my mother's caregiver for over fifteen years, and she is now on oxygen and can barely walk. She is ninety-two years old and I have a very difficult time getting her out of the house without a ramp.


My daughter helps some and when she is here, I go do our errands.
I know that Mom would like to get out sometimes though, to enjoy the sunshine and visit the senior center with me, etc.

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In my town, the Boy Scouts have built ramps for people.
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I would go directly to businesses and organizations and ask for help. See if you can get someone to give you a bid. Then, you will know how much $ you will need.
Do any of you belong to any clubs or churches, that you can approach?
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Thanks for the suggestions. I did contact the church that we went to for a while and the pastor is trying to help by asking around. I did not, however, know about the Boy Scouts, so thanks again!
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In Michigan we have the Community Action Agency with a department called Area on Aging. I know they help the elderly with ramps and other household needs. My husband is a builder and he would do work for that department once in a while. Check around and see if your community has a similar thing.
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Check with your local agency on aging, there are volunteer groups who do this. Good luck
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Habitat for Humanity might be able to assist.

The program we used to get a ramp built for my dad had a long waiting list - 2 years before they came back.

We were lucky and were able to get a temporary ramp built for just the cost of the plywood. Amazingly enough, it lasted just the 2 years!
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My mom is almost 105 and lives in her own home with 24/7. While her caregiver can get her down and back up the 4 steps to the house, it is scary to watch the process with her holding on to the railing for dear life! I started with her insurance provider and was told that Medicare pays for ramps and I just needed a letter from her Dr. The Dr., who has many elderly patients, said that he had never heard about a ramp being provided but that he would write the letter. The letter went to the medical group that provides mom's care and they turned us down saying that there was no evidence of it being medically necessary. I have appealed and that is where we are now.

So, if you have a medical plan that provides the Medicare services give them a call. Talk to the Dr.'s office staff. Look around in the neighborhood and when you see a house with a ramp go knock on the door. Be very polite and explain your circumstances. I bet they will be most helpful.
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There's a company that sells build-it-yourself kits for wheelchair ramps. The ramp is designed by an engineer, using materials you can get at a big box hardware store like Lowes or Home Depot. If you know someone who has basic building and carpentry skills, they can put it together. Check out their YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t_yB8KmloqU

P.S. I'm not affiliated with them at all. I learned of them not to long ago and just think it's a great idea and helpful for those on a budget.
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105 years old! Where does she go at age 105 ?? ... And Medicare pays for ramps? I never knew that. Maybe one has to be confined to a wheelchair in order for them to pay.... Well, bless your hearts, I hope they get on building that ramp pretty soon!
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Mom doesn't go very far but does need to go to Dr. appts., Hairdresser, and out for lunch so she sees something in addition to the walls of the house.  She is mentally alert, has friends over, and does very well for 105.  The caregiver cooks, cleans, helps her dress and bathe, and makes sure she takes her medication.
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