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Aids and equipment for independence and safety
Different kinds of aids or equipment can help you maintain your independence and safety. They can:
- assist your walking and moving about
- help with personal care, including showering and going to the toilet, and
- make it easier for you to be socially active.
Mobility aids
These aids include walking sticks or frames, wheely walkers, manual and motorised wheelchairs, scooters – even car accessories and modifications. Mobility aids can help prevent falls.Personal care
Shower stools or chairs, shower hoses, bath seats and boards, over-toilet frames, commodes, urinals, continence pads and supplies, aids to assist with dressing, and aids to manage medications.Personal safety
Personal alarm-call systems provide 24-hour monitoring. You can wear an alarm discreetly on a neck chain or like a watch. In an emergency, family or an ambulance can be notified immediately. Identification bracelets are also a good idea for people with dementia who may wander, who are at high risk of ill effects or medications or whose chronic diseases are difficult to manage. Contact your Independent Living Centre (more information) or community health centre for details.Home safety
This includes handrails, ramps, tap turners, non-slip mats, easy-grip utensils and easy-pour kettles – just about anything to do with day-to-day activities in and around the home. Contact your Independent Living Centre.Seating
This equipment includes pressure care cushions, height-adjustable chairs, recliners, tilt chairs, day beds. The right seating equipment will minimise pressure and protect your skin, while making it more comfortable for you and easier for you and your carers.More information can be found through an Independent Living Centre.
Independent Living Centres
Independent Living Centres (ILC) are information resource centres that are located in every state and in the ACT. Each centre displays a wide range of products and equipment to assist with daily living activities. Everybody is welcome to visit the ILC, including people with disabilities, older people, their carers, parents, advocates and other service providers, health professionals, architects, builders, suppliers, manufacturers and students. You can try out products and equipment and select those most suitable before you buy.Most of the services are free to the public. It is recommended you contact your local ILC before visiting, for their drop in times or to make an appointment.
Read More: About personal and medical alarms
Read More: About home design and modification
Read More: About how to stay secure in your own home
Common questions on this topic:
- Where can I get information about equipment to help Mum manage at home now she is getting frail?
- What is the meaning of a war widow or widower?
See all common questions