People often need to borrow medical equipment for a short term. A pair of crutches, a wheelchair, ... Several organizations provide these for free or for a small fee.
MA Rehabilitation Commission offers two medical device reuse programs:
REquipment is a wonderful organization that collects, refurbishes and delivers medical equipment, free - keeping it out of landfills and in the hands of people in MA who can use it. See what’s available at http://www.dmeREquipment.org/search.php . -- REquipment will also pick up donations of gently used wheelchairs and other medical equipment in Greater Boston at no fee.
In all of New England, Get AT Stuff is an online classified ad site where donors can post their no longer needed equipment for free or low cost.
Other
In Malden, MA, the Knights of Columbus will lend items such as canes, blanket supports, over-the-bed tables, walkers, forearm crutches, commodes, wheelchairs, hoyer lifts, hospital beds and whirlpools for foot or arm. They are only open on Saturdays 9AM-12PM.
In Newton, MA, the Senior Center's Durable Medical Equipment Program will lend medical equipment to Newton citizens. Contact Alice Bailey for details 617-796-1664 abailey@newtonma.gov
SMD-HELP is run by volunteers from 30 local Masonic lodges. They are at 500 West Cummings Park Suite 1150, Woburn and open Saturday morning from 9-12. If you want something a bit unusual call first at 781-322-1052. Material must be picked up.
The Senior Center in Arlington, MA will lend wheelchairs. Many other senior centers will lend equipment, too, so make sure to check with your town's.
The COA (Council on Aging) in Lincoln (Bemis Hall) has equipment they lend. Call them to see if they have what you need