What equipment or adaptations you can get
Care equipment, technology and adaptations to your home can help you and carers:
- understand and manage your condition
- have peace of mind
- lower the risk of unplanned hospital admissions, especially if you live in a rural area
- have more freedom and confidence to enjoy daily life
You can discuss what help you might need with your social worker at your care needs assessment.
Find out how to apply for a care needs assessment through your local council.
Equipment that can help
You can get equipment to help you live at home independently, for example:
- shower rails
- bath or shower seats
- a pressure relief mattress
- walking aids (for example, a walking frame)
If you no longer need your care equipment, contact the organisation that supplied it. They can arrange to collect and recycle it.
You can find more information about equipment and technology on Carers Scotland.
Home adaptations
Home adaptations are changes to your home. They make it safer and easier to live in if you’re older, disabled or have a long-term health condition. Examples of home adaptations include:
- constructing a ramp
- widening doors for wheelchair access
- replacing your shower with a level-access shower
Technology-enabled care
Technology-enabled care is technology and equipment to support you at home.
Care Information Scotland has more information on technology-enabled care.
Telehealth
Telehealth equipment helps you check long-term health conditions at home, for example:
- a blood pressure monitor
- a glucose meter if you’re diabetic
Telecare
Telecare is equipment to help support you at home, for example:
- a personal alarm (a pendant or bracelet that lets you call for help)
- a fall detector
- flood and smoke detectors
Help with everyday technology
Technology like computers, tablets or smartphones can help you with activities like:
- shopping online, to save time, avoid queuing or carrying heavy bags
- catching up with friends or family using video-calling services
- organising care with families through group messaging and shared calendars
- controlling lights and curtains in your home
- automatic reminders for medication
This could be technology that you already own, or that you buy yourself.
If you’re a carer, you can get online support through online groups and forums. This can help you stay connected and share experiences.