Equipment and adaptations

Getting the right equipment to help you manage at home can make a huge difference.

Equipment for your home might include ways to raise a seat to make getting up easier, grab rails to help you get out of the bath, a wheelchair or a hospital-style bed.

How can an occupational therapist help?

An occupational therapist (OT) provides advice and equipment to help people do everyday tasks. This can help them to stay independent.

Your GP or medical team can refer you to an OT. They will do an assessment to see what equipment might help, and help you get it. This might include chair raisers to make getting up easier, or grab rails to get out of the bath.

Bear in mind that this can take time to organise. Ask about an OT referral as soon as you think it may be needed.

Some adaptations to your home may be funded by your council. This will depend on your local council. Your local hospice may also provide some equipment. If you only need equipment for a short time, the hospital or district nurse may supply this.

If you are thinking of buying any equipment yourself, the organisation Living Made Easy can provide information. You may be able to claim benefits or apply for a grant to help with the cost. You can also hire some equipment from charities such as the British Red Cross.

“Get equipment as soon as it is needed to make life more comfortable. Having the equipment at home definitely helped us.”

“Keep persisting until you receive all the advice, support and equipment you need. There’s no such thing as a silly question and sometimes if you don’t ask you don’t get.”

Support from care workers and social services

Read about financial help available

Get support from our specialist nurses

Find out about healthcare at home

Help with the cost of living

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May 2024

To be reviewed May 2027