before I retired 20+ years ago we reused crutches and walking frames , being of sturdy build , if I could lean on them and feel no creaks or cracks I replaced the rubber feet and used them for the next patient . I couldn't believe my ears when told not to return crutches and two different Zimmer's after cracking my ankle a few years ago , I was given crutches after my hip op , tried to refuse them (knew I had some at home ) but wasn't allowed to go without . After OH died we managed to get them to take the Kurten chair , bed , wheelchair ,hoist and sneaked a few bits and pieces into the van . We were left with various commodes ,Zimmer's and other aids which we gave to a local care home . It was most distressing to open the garage and see things we had used with OH lying about and we were glad to see the back of them . Later we found a bag of footpieces and a charger for the hoist , but no one would collect them . ....... then there was the months supply of incontinence pads unopened ! but they had to be given under the counter to another care home in case they were found out !