Examples of equipment to help you live at home independently

Here are some examples.

Bathing aids to help with getting in and out of the bath

Bath seat

Used with a bath board so you can get lower down in the bath. A bath seat isn’t appropriate if:

• you need to clean your lower body for medical reasons, because you won’t be fully in the bath

• you have a plastic bath.

Bath board

Can be used to help you get in and out of the bath. Can be used with a bath seat.

Shower board

Fits in the bath so you can use your over-bath shower. Can be used in combination with other equipment.

Shower seat

Useful if you find it difficult to stand safely while in the shower.

Bath step

A step to help you get in and out of the bath. Some steps can be adjusted to the height you need.

Equipment to help with using the toilet

Raised toilet seats

If you have restricted mobility you may not be able to get on and off your toilet safely because it is too low. Raised toilet seats help with this.

Toilet frames

These are useful if you need to use both arms to stand up from the toilet. The width of the frame needs to fit around the toilet and you need to be able to fit within it. Frames can be fixed to the floor for more stability.

Commodes

Useful if you find it difficult to reach the main toilet.

Grab rails and stair hand rails

These can be used around the house or outside to help with day-to-day tasks such as:

• getting into and out of the bath

• standing from the toilet

• moving safely around the house.

Walking aids

These offer support and stability when walking, both indoors and outdoors. They need to be measured up specifically for you to use. They can improve your speed and stride when walking. They can also help you stay upright and can increase your confidence when walking.

Walking frames

These support you when moving around at home.

Wheeled walkers

These are suitable for outdoor use and include:

• two-wheeled rollators with small wheels or castors on the front legs and ferrules at the back

• tri-wheeler frames with a single front swivel castor and two uni-directional rear wheels

• four-wheeled walker, which will help you walk more fluently.

Tripod/quadruple walking stocks

These are like walking sticks but more stable because their base has three or four points.

Equipment to help with personal care and preparing and serving food

Adjustable trolley

This helps you carry things from one room to another. You should not use it instead of a mobility aid.

Perching stool

An angled seat (with or without arms) which helps you in the bathroom or kitchen if you cannot stand for long periods of time.