Adaptations to doorways in your house can allow you to use a wheelchair to get around. There are also hundreds of simple gadgets which can help you with daily tasks like cooking, washing, dressing, using the toilet and bathing.

Local authority and NHS equipment
Your local authority or the NHS may provide some equipment and adaptations. Your local authority can provide things like:

• grab rails
• stair lifts
• blocks to make chairs and beds higher
• raised toilet seats and bath seats

You will need to have an assessment of your needs (see the page on Getting a care assessment). An occupational therapist may visit you to give you expert advice on what equipment will suit your needs. However, your local authority will have set rules about who they will provide equipment to, often referred to as 'eligibility criteria'. If you are at risk if you do not have the equipment provided you will have a greater chance of qualifying for help.

Some equipment, such as continence equipment and commodes, can be provided through the NHS. You should contact your GP surgery to find out how you can get this help. If you have had an assessment from your local authority they should help you to get the health equipment that you need. See our free advice leaflet Bladder and Bowel Weakness (PDF) for advice on treating and managing incontinence.

Your local British Red Cross may loan out disability equipment such as wheelchairs and commodes. But you will probably find that they need you to be referred to them by a social worker or a health professional.

Buying equipment from private companies
If you are not eligible to get equipment from your local authority or the NHS, you might want to consider buying your own. There are lots of companies that sell disability aids. However, it's often a good idea to get some advice before you go ahead and buy something. Equipment can be expensive and it is important to get something suitable for your needs. A charity called the Disabled Living Foundation can give impartial advice and information on different aids and equipment. They can also give you lists of suppliers. Call their helpline on 0845 130 9177 (textphone: 020 7432 8009).

Some companies will sell disability equipment to you in your own home. This can be very convenient. However, there have been reports of people receiving an unsatisfactory service. Be aware that some companies sell very over-priced equipment to older people which they do not really need. Some doorstep sellers put people under a lot of pressure to buy their products without giving them a chance to try out the equipment. For example, people have been sold electric scooters that will not fit through their front door.

See our information sheet Equipment for Daily Living(PDF) which gives you helpful tips on what to think about when buying equipment.