Will I have to pay for equipment to help me in my home?

Making your home safe and comfortable is essential when living with dementia. You might be wondering if you’ll have to pay for equipment to assist you. Let’s explore this topic and see what support is available.

Equipment and adaptations

There’s a range of equipment and adaptations that can make daily life easier and safer:

• Grab rails: to help with balance and support when moving around the home.

• Bed rails: to prevent falls and provide assistance when getting in and out of bed.

• Chair and bed alarms: to alert carers if you try to get up unassisted.

• Memory aids: such as reminder clocks, calendars, and pill dispensers to help with daily routines.

• Simple gadgets: like easy-to-use phones or remote controls.

NHS and social services support

In many cases, you won’t have to pay for equipment yourself. Here’s why:

• NHS Equipment Loan Services: the NHS provides equipment like wheelchairs, walking frames, and commodes free of charge through its Equipment Loan Services.

• Social services assessment: if you need more extensive adaptations or equipment, social services can conduct an assessment to determine your needs. They may provide equipment or make adaptations to your home at no cost to you.

Disability benefits

You might also be eligible for disability benefits to help cover costs:

• Attendance Allowance: a benefit for people over State Pension age who need help with personal care due to illness or disability. Find out more: https://www.gov.uk/attendance-allowance

• Personal Independence Payment: a benefit for people under State Pension age who need help with daily living or mobility due to a long-term health condition or disability. Find out more: https://www.gov.uk/pip

Charitable assistance

Charities like Alzheimer’s Society, Age UK, and Dementia UK also offer support:

• Grants and financial assistance: these charities may provide grants to help cover the costs of equipment or adaptations.

• Information and guidance: they can offer advice on what equipment you might need and how to access it.

While living with dementia comes with its challenges, there are many resources available to help you stay safe and comfortable in your home. Don’t hesitate to reach out for support—you deserve to feel secure in your own home.

Sources: NHS, GOV.UK