feature: Adapting to stay
17 March 2008
Independence is something most of us take for granted - whether it's going to the shops, visiting friends and relatives, or simply getting around the house.
But for some elderly people as well as adults and children with a disability, illness or a sensory impairment, even these tasks can be difficult.
Haringey Council’s adaptations service is on hand to help. The service aims to enable people to remain as independent as possible in their own homes for longer.
The team includes occupational therapy staff and surveyors. They:
- discuss with clients, carers and family how a person’s disability impacts on how they carry out everyday tasks
- provide advice and information on different ways of doing tasks independently
- can advise on suitable equipment or adaptations for the home – like stair and hand rails
- may be able to supply some equipment on loan, for example, a raised toilet seat or bathing equipment, as well as some larger pieces of equipment; and
- can discuss how major adaptations, such as a stair lift or a ramp for wheelchair access, can be funded.
If it’s felt that someone would be better off moving to different accommodation, the team will discuss all the options.
No charge is made for equipment on loan, which they aim to deliver within seven working days. Some equipment, such as custom-made shower chairs or slings, will take longer as they have to be ordered direct from the suppliers.
Not everyone is eligible to receive a service, but the team will provide information about where people can purchase equipment. There is a variety of equipment available to help with everyday tasks. Whilst some items cost only a few pounds, others can be expensive. It’s important to find out what is available and, if at all possible, try out before buying. Professional advice from an occupational therapist can help you avoid costly mistakes to your pocket and your health.
The service now offers a ‘try before you buy’ facility for clients who are ineligible for services but who would like to ensure that equipment will meet their needs before they purchase.
Cabinet member for adult social care Cllr Bob Harris said:
“Sometimes even small pieces of equipment or a minor adaptation to someone’s home can make a real difference to the quality of their life.
“One of our key priorities is to help as many people as possible to stay in their own homes and providing equipment or making adaptations to the house can really help achieve that goal.”
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