10 types of equipment to make home life easier
We all want to stay in our homes for as long as we can, so it’s important to look at things you can do and equipment to install to help you keep independent for as long as possible. Here are some great ideas from Age UK:
In the bathroom
1. Removable bath boards
Removable bath boards provide a seated platform area over the bath, you sit on the board and turn to sit over the bath. If you experience difficulty stepping in/out of the bath it may be safer to transfer by using the board than by trying to step over the rim. However, you still need to raise your legs over the bath rim, or have assistance to do this from a carer.
In the kitchen
2. Food preparation boards
The design of these boards varies, they may have a clamp system to either stabilise food when you’re cutting it or to secure bottles and tins when you’re opening them. They may also have spikes to secure fruit or vegetables when you’re cutting or peeling them, most have a non-slip base.
Around the home
3. Newel rails
You may already have a banister rail, and even a matching wall mounted rail on the other side of your stairs but is there anything to hold onto at the turn in the stairs? Newel rails are designed to be installed on the newel post and turn through 90 degrees around the post giving you a continuous hand rail as your turn the corner.
4. Commode
If you are struggling to get to the toilet in another part of your home you could consider a commode. There are a wide range of commodes available including metal framed, plastic frame, wooden frame, cane commodes and armchair style commodes so you should find one to suit your home.
Folding commodes are also available that can be stored away when not in use.
5. Remote control plugs and lighting
Plug sockets are often mounted low on the wall near the floor. If you are regularly turning a low socket on/off then you may find it easier, and safer to add a remote control socket that you can turn on/off from your armchair. Remote control adaptors are also available for light sockets, with the receiver installed between the bulb and the fitting.
To find out what the other five are, visit the Age UK website