Living safely at home
Making sure you live somewhere that works for your needs can help you stay safe and well at home for longer
Home care aids and equipment
01. Everyday tools
From help buttoning up clothes, to making it easier to prepare and eat meals, some gadgets are specially designed to make everyday life a little easier. They can help you to live safely and independently at home for as long as possible
02. Walking aids
If you’re feeling less steady on your feet around the house or out and about, a walking aid could help.
Wheelchairs or walking frames are often available on free long-term loan through your GP. If you need equipment that isn't available via your GP, you may need to pay for this yourself. To understand how you might cover these costs, use our Care Costs Calculator.
Talk to them for more information about support available through the NHS.
03. Bathroom equipment
Bathrooms can be one of the first areas of the home where we recognise the need for some adaptations or equipment. For example, many people with conditions that affect their mobility may find it difficult to get in and out of the bath.
Seats for the shower, grip mats for slippery surfaces or walk-in baths are all options to help keep your bathroom easy to use.
04. Telecare alarms and technology
Telecare or 'alarm' services usually involve wearing a pendant, making it easy for you to raise the alarm if you fall or feel unwell.
The latest ‘smart technology’ gives you more ways than ever to stay safe and connected to family and friends. There’s now smart lighting to automatically light a room as you walk in or pressure pads to raise the alarm if you fall. You can even set up advanced telecare services to speak to a trained nurse or carer for advice and reassurance when you need it.
05. Finding aids and equipment
DLF is a charity specialising in helping older and disabled people find the aids and equipment they need to live independently at home. Their Living Made Easy website is a free database of specialist equipment.
Some equipment and aids can be supplied for you by the NHS or your local authority. To understand what’s available, speak to your GP.
You should also check you’re claiming all the financial support you’re entitled to. Attendance Allowance is a non means-tested benefit, meaning it doesn’t matter how much you have in income or savings. Many older people who are beginning to struggle will be entitled to it.
Read more about means testing and benefits.
Making small adaptations to your home
Sometimes all that's needed is a small practical change. Installing a handrail in the bathroom or a ramp on the steps into your home could make all the difference. Adaptations might include:
- Handrails
- Ramps
- Key safes
- Security, such as outside lights
- Putting a second bannister on your stairs
Your local authority should supply and install any minor adaptations they’ve agreed you need up to the value of £1,000, free of charge. Contact the Adult Social Care team of your local authority to request an assessment from an Occupational Therapist.
If you live in Scotland or Wales, contact your local authority and in Northern Ireland, get in touch with your GP or local Health and Social Care Trust.
You can also reach out to your local not-for-profit Home Improvement Agency (HIA). HIAs support older homeowners and private renters with repairs and adaptations.
Local services
If you need a little extra help with practical things at home, there are services to support you.
Charities like the Royal Voluntary Service (RVS) offer local services, activities and meal delivery. Their ‘good neighbours’ scheme, which can help with odd jobs and offer companionship.
You can also visit the Care Choices website, to find other local support services in your area.
Help from the council
Your local authority can tell you about the services that they provide or commission, such as:
- ‘Meals on wheels’ for meal home delivery services
- Community transport services that can help you get out and about. These are often called ‘Dial-a-Ride’
- Home adaptation services that can help you to live safely and independently
They should also be able to direct you to local charities and volunteer-run services that are local to you.
Formal care
If you need help with personal care, you may want to hire a registered home care agency. Our Care Search helps match people looking for care with available, registered in-home care providers in their local area.
Personal care might include help with:
- Washing
- Dressing
- Preparing medication
- Getting out of bed
- Using the bathroom
Paying for support at home
If you’re worried about how you’ll pay for services such as home care, make sure you’re claiming all the financial support you’re entitled to.
Read more in our section on Means Testing and Benefits.
For help with personal care, it’s a good idea to start by asking for an assessment of your care needs and finances from your local authority. In England, if you have less than £23,250 in savings and need care, you may be entitled to some financial support.