Useful tips to make life easier

There are many aspects to consider when adapting your home to accommodate a disability. Here are a few suggestions:

Access to your Home

Handrails Ramps Steplifts Hardstanding Dropped kerb Additional exterior lighting Locking intercom on main door Closed circuit TV

Getting around your Home

Adapting Doorways (especially useful for wheelchair use or any walking aids) Stairlift (for use if stairs cannot be used safely) * Ceiling track hoist (a safe way to assist movement around the home) Additional interior lighting (especially necessary for the severe visually impaired which affects ability to move safely around the home and carry out everyday tasks) Additional, raised or lowered electrical sockets/switches (can be used if sockets or switches cannot be reached due to a disability)

Bathroom Adaptions

Shower over the Bath (this is handy if the disabled person cannot get into a bath seat safely or perhaps it is too painful to do so. Also if the person suffers from epilepsy and cannot risk sitting in the bath) Bath Hoist (this may be used if a shower would be too difficult for the disabled person to use, or if there is limited room within the bathroom) Downstairs toilet (ideal if mobility is restricted) Closomat or similar (combined toilet and bidet)

Kitchen Adaptions

Lowered sink and kitchen units Repositioning switches and powerpoints Smoke alarms throughout the house

There are many ways to adapt your home and make life that little bit easier. For advice with these type of adaptions there are many agencies and charities within your local area who will be more than happy to help.