If you, or someone you know, struggles with everyday tasks, there might be gadgets or equipment to help make life easier.
Equipment that can help
Going to the toilet
- a chair with hidden toilet (commode) – if getting to the toilet is difficult
- push button to flush the toilet
- raised toilet seat
Using the bathroom
- non-slip mat for the bath or shower
- a rail to help you get out of the bath or shower
- easy to turn handles for taps
Cooking and eating
- a kettle with a holder to make it easy to pour
- knives and forks with special handles to make them easy to hold
- easy to grip jugs or graters
- cups with 2 handles
Getting out of bed or out of a chair
- a rail you attach to the bed (grab rail)
- straps to help you lift your leg (leg lifters)
- things to raise your bed
- reclining chairs
Getting dressed
- hooks to help pull zips, undo buttons and pull jackets on
- gadgets to help put socks, tights and pants on
Caring for children
- chairs to help support children in the bath
- seats to help children sit upright
Staying safe
Read about key safes, intercoms and sensors that alert carers if you fall in our guide to personal alarms, monitoring systems (telecare) and key safes.
How to get gadgets and equipment
Gadgets and equipment can be small or big, and costs vary.
The Living made easy website will give you an idea of the types of equipment available, what they cost and where to buy them.
How your council can help
Your local council offers a service that assesses your needs and recommends help including equipment. Having a needs assessment is free.
A needs assessment might also identify home adaptations that would make life easier for you.
Equipment and small adaptations to your home will be provided for free if you're assessed as needing them.
Ask social services at your local council about getting a needs assessment.
Find your local council and apply for equipment for your home if you're disabled, on GOV.UK.
Getting a grant
If you have an illness or disability and cannot get the help you need from your local council or the NHS, you might be able to get a grant to help with the costs.
Independence at Home has grants for disabled people and those with a long-term illness who need financial help.
Hiring or loaning equipment
You might want to hire equipment, for example to see if it's right for you before buying, if you only need it for a short while or you need it to take on holiday.
Try searching online for:
- specialist disability equipment hire
- local disability equipment suppliers