As we get older, our bodies go through changes. These changes can affect how we manage everyday activities. For many of us, staying independent at home and continuing to do the things we enjoy becomes increasingly important. Assistive equipment and aids can provide extra support, helping you do things more easily or complete activities you might otherwise be unable to do on your own.
Some people may hesitate to use assistive equipment because they worry about what others might think. It is important to remember that these devices are not a sign of losing independence. They are tools that help you continue doing the things you enjoy.
Think about glasses. Wearing glasses isn’t considered giving up independence. They simply make an everyday activity easier and safer. Assistive equipment can work in much the same way. An aid doesn’t have to represent something you’ve lost. It can be a tool that helps you keep doing what matters to you.
Types of assistive equipment and aids
Personal care: Shower chairs, long-handled reachers, dressing aids, button hooks, long-handled shoehorns, medicine dispensers.
Kitchen and eating: Jar openers, easy-grip utensils, tray trolleys, adapted kitchen equipment.
Mobility & access: Grab rails, walking sticks, walking frames, wheelchairs, mobility scooters, ramps, handrails, stair lifts.
Continence & toileting: Bathroom grab rails, raised toilet seats, bedside commodes, continence aids.
Technology use: Large-button or simplified phones, tablets and computers, magnifiers, voice controls and smart-home technology for controlling lights, doors, blinds or other appliances.
Safety: Personal alarms, emergency pendants, sensor night lights, non-slip mats, home modifications.
Assistive equipment doesn’t have to mean making major changes to your home. Some aids are small and inexpensive, while others provide more support. Indigo also operates NED, the National Equipment Database, where you can explore, find information on, and buy more than 25,000 assistive technology and equipment products.
How assistive aids can help prevent falls
Many assistive aids are designed to make everyday activities safer and can help prevent falls, including:
- improved balance and stability when walking
- easier, safer movement around the home
- reduced strain on joints and muscles during daily activities
- improved confidence to do daily activities.
Equipment needs to match your abilities, environment and individual needs. What works well for a friend or family member may not necessarily be the best option for you. Chat to your GP or Occupational Therapist about which assistive equipment is right for you.
Australia’s My Aged Care Services can help:
- identifying, sourcing and supplying equipment and products
- prescription of the items, if required
- clinical support to correctly use the equipment and products.
Learn more about making your home safer to prevent falls through simple home modifications.