TRANSPORT & MOBILITY
“For older people who want to stay independent in their own home,
there are a range of adaptations, gadgets and equipment available that can help.”
out of bed and there are also shut-off devices for taps and cookers that have been leſt on, as well as fire and smoke alarms that automatically call for help.
WHO PAYS? Very small aids - like a kettle tipper that allows hot water to
be poured safely or an easy-reacher which brings things into reach – may need to be bought and paid for privately. The Disabled Living Foundation has information and reviews of aids and equipment on its website
livingmadeeasy.org.uk.
All aids, and minor adaptations that cost up to £1,000, must be provided by the council for free if they’ve assessed someone as needing them. Financial help for larger adaptations may be means-tested. Depending on the older person’s income and savings, they may be eligible for a Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) of up to £30,000. The local council or a Housing Improvement Agency (
findmyhia.org.uk) can give advice on making an application. Rica (
rica.org.uk), which carries out consumer research for older and disabled people, has information about the likely costs of adaptations and equipment.
A local council also has the discretion to provide assistance for residents who need to adapt, repair or improve their home and they can choose to do this in a variety of ways, such as offering grants or loans.
The local council will offer some telecare services but options may be limited. Telecare can also be bought privately. There is usually a charge for setting up the telecare and a regular monitoring fee. The Telecare Services Association (
tsa-voice.org.uk) can provide contact details of local telecare companies.
www.independentage.org twitter.com/TomorrowsCare
HELPFUL HINTS If you are looking to help an elderly individual explore the
options for help at home, there are a few things you need to bear in mind:
• The first port of call should be a care needs assessment from the council. They will provide free advice on the best type of help for your client.
• Plan ahead and ask for help in good time. There could be a long wait for a care needs assessment unless the individual’s needs are urgent and it’s best not to wait until there is a crisis.
• Work should not be started whilst applying for a Disabled Facilities Grant. You usually won’t get anything if the work has already started.
• Some charities give grants for disability aids and equipment if the person is not eligible for help from the council.
• Try before you buy any equipment. Ask the local council about the nearest Disabled Living Centre or visit equipment demonstration centres. Contact details can be found on the Disabled Living Foundation website
livingmadeeasy.org.uk/contacts_edc.php.
Knowing what’s available and how to get it can make a big difference to an older person’s ability to stay mobile and independent at home. Independent Age, the older person’s charity, has produced a guide Getting help at home which is free to order and download from
independentage.org/getting-help-at-home or can be ordered by calling 0800 319 6789.
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