What are Home adaptations?
Home adaptations are changes to your home that make it easier and safer for you to live independently and move around your home. Adaptations vary according to need. You may find that you need support going up the stairs, in which case, installing a stairlift or bannister may help. A walk-in shower, bath lift or rail in the bathroom may aid with personal care and lowering kitchen workshops can help when cooking.
Examples of home adaptations
- Installing a bath lift
- Adding grab rails to the bed or bath
- Installing a stair lift
- Fitting a bannister
- Adding a step rail or ramp
- Widening doorways
- Fitting a wetroom
Which home adaptations do I need?
You can request a free ‘care needs assessment’ with social services. To carry out the assessment, they will send an occupational therapist or social worker to assess your home and needs. The health professional will then recommend adaptations and equipment to help you.
Covering the cost.
You might be eligible for financial support from your council to make changes. Financial aid is means tested, and your local council should cover the costs of adaptations below £1,000. You can apply for a Disabled Facilities Grant if you need more extensive adaptations.