If you're having difficulty with everyday tasks such as washing, dressing, cooking or with moving round your home, specialist equipment could help you do these things safely and independently.
If you're the carer for someone with physical health problems, having the right equipment can help make your work easier and safer.
What sort of equipment is there?
There's a wide range - you may be surprised at what's available. This list doesn't cover everything but will give you some idea:
- Shower stools
- Bath lifts/shower boards
- Helping hands - gadget for picking things up from the floor
- Grab rails - for example, to help you get around in your home, or keep your balance in the bath
- Raised toilet seats/toilet frames
- Commodes - for example, to help people who can't get to the bathroom by themselves
Can I get equipment for free?
It depends on whether you're eligible for care and support from the council and also on the type of equipment.
After a spell in hospital, or after seeing your GP, district nurse or social worker you may be offered the chance to see a specially-trained professional such as an occupational therapist or a physiotherapist. Following an assessment you may be offered equipment for free to help you to do things more safely or independently in your home.
To work out how much help you need, use the link below to request a care and support assessment by Adult Care Services.
If it's identified that you need more significant equipment such as hoist or slings, an occupational therapist will discuss this with you and recommend the most appropriate equipment. You may need to have a financial assessment to see if you can pay towards the costs.
If you aren't eligible for support from Adult Care Services, we'll advise you on where to get it independently.
Request a care and support assessment on the Rochdale Borough Council website.
Equipment providers and advice - useful links
- Age UK suggests 10 types of equipment to make life easier at home.
For more information see Age UK on their website - Assistive Technology Dementia website – Information on assistive technology for people with dementia.
- Concept Care offer a range of simple disability aids to assist with tasks such as bathing, getting dressed or preparing meals - 01706 526777.
For more information see Concept Care on their website - Just Checking website - Just Checking is an easy-to-use online activity monitoring system that helps people who are becoming forgetful stay independent in their own home.
- Ross Care provide mobility products to make home life much easier.
For more information see Ross Care on their website - Nottingham Rehab offer a range of simple disability aids to assist with tasks such as bathing, getting dressed or preparing meals.
For more information see Nottingham Rehab on their website
More about getting care and support at home
- Care and Support to maintain independence at home.
- Assistive technology, including telecare.
- Careline - how to get our telecare service.
- Help with walking and mobility - advice, falls prevention, physiotherapy, walking aids and wheelchairs.
- Help with recovery from illness/after a stay in hospital.
For more infromation see Intermediate Care Teams on the Rochdale Borough Council website - Home care service providers - Contact details for approved providers.
Meal delivery services
Tracey’s kitchen
Tracey’s kitchen, cooks and delivers healthy nutritious meals, starting at £3.50. Based in the Rochdale borough, her meals are cooked with fresh ingredients and portion controlled.
Contact: 077063 35356 or Email: traceyszymanek09@gmail.com.
For more information see our Facebook page