You can gradually become accustomed to finding daily tasks difficult, so sometimes just finding the right equipment can transform your quality of life. It's not just about stairlifts, scooters or adapted toilets. From picking things up from the floor to putting on socks, from cutlery to hearing aids, a range of ingenious gadgets can help restore a better quality of life.
Some suggestions
If you have weak or painful hands
- lightweight gadgets and appliances
- hands-free equipment such as a telephone that can be used without picking up the receiver
- large, easy-to-grip controls and handles.
if you find it difficult to bend
- equipment with long handles
- reachers or pick-up sticks
- a perching stool to provide a stable base from which to reach down.
if you have low vision or are blind
- items enlarged by magnification or large, bold print
- adjustable light in work areas
- appliances with an audible signal such as talking scales and a bleeping liquid level indicator.
if you are hard of hearing or deaf
- equipment to amplify sounds around you such as the television, door bell or telephone
- items that visually indicate the sounds around you such as a flashing door or telephone bell.
The Disability Living Foundation has some excellent advice about the different types of equipment available on their Living Made Easy website:
Choosing special equipment you can trust
Before buying any large or expensive items of equipment, it's a good idea to:
- check how comfortable it is and that it is easy for you to use. Where possible, try it out beforehand
- make sure it is in good condition (especially if you are buying a second-hand item) and suitable for the task you require it for
- check about the repair and maintenance, and whether you can easily buy spare parts
- check the company policy for returning equipment you don't need any more
- consider getting insurance to cover accidents and break-down.
Visit your local Disabled Living Centre , where you can get independent advice.
East Sussex County Council