Essential homecare supplies and where you can get them
Why is it important to have home care supplies?
If you are living with a complex condition or have difficulty with mobility, home care supplies are a significant way to help make your life a little easier.
As we age, we find it difficult to carry out everyday tasks, but with the help of home care supplies, you can maximise your independence and continue to do the things you enjoy. Even if you aren’t living with a physical condition, there are plenty of gadgets that can help enhance your quality of life.
Homecare supplies can include a first aid kit, wheelchairs, hospital beds, grab bars, clothing and reclining chairs.
More importantly, homecare supplies can increase your safety at home, leading to fewer trips to the hospital. Some equipment also allows you to monitor your condition and when you visit your doctor you can notify them of your symptoms and whether your condition has declined or improved.
The homecare supplies that you should have and where to get them
If you are living with a disability or need to adapt your home due to age, you can apply for homecare supplies from your local council. You can also purchase items from online retailers.
Mobility aids
If you are struggling to get around the house safely, there are plenty of mobility aids that can provide you with the stability you need. These include wheelchairs, scooters and foldable walkers; some even come with wheels. If you have difficulty getting up the stairs, you can purchase a stairlift to get up and down without worrying. You can purchase mobility aids via Living Made Easy, which gives you a list of online retailers that sell homecare supplies.
Medication
Medication tends to be prescribed by your GP, so having a separate compartment or box for your medication would be ideal. You can also have prescriptions delivered to your door, so you don’t have to worry about collecting them from the pharmacy. It’s also worth having over-the-counter medication at home to help with pain relief, such as paracetamol and ibuprofen.
Assistive devices
Assistive devices help support individuals with disabilities who have restricted mobility or other impairments.
They can range from bathroom equipment, such as shower chairs or bath mats, to kitchen utensils, including special water taps and kettle tippers. There are many gadgets out there today that are readily available to purchase online.
Medical records
Ensure all your medical records are kept up to date, even if it means keeping a folder and noting any changes in symptoms or medication. This will help prepare you for attending medical appointments. You can even write a list of questions you may want to ask your healthcare professional. Also, keep a note of all your medical appointments on a calendar so you don’t forget!
Communication devices
If you live alone or are unable to visit loved ones due to mobility, communication devices are a great way to keep in touch. From smartphones and tablets to computers and laptops, there are various ways to communicate with your friends and family, no matter how far they live. These devices are available from different retail stores and online. You may even bag yourself a bargain during the sales.
Safety equipment
Your safety is always important, which is why you should always be prepared in the event of an emergency.
You can purchase home safety equipment from Fire Protection Online. This includes a fire extinguisher, first aid kit, smoke detector and emergency lights. It is also important to have a home alarm fitted for your peace of mind. Personal alarms are also available too.
How our carers can assist you
We provide exceptional care so our customers can maintain their independence at home.
At Helping Hands, we deliver dedicated, person-centred support from as little as 30 minutes a week with visiting care. If you prefer around-the-clock support, we also offer live-in care. Our carers can help you fold the laundry, change the bedding, take the bins out, accompany you to community classes and much more.
We can also help you with essential home care supplies and see what equipment you may need to make your life easier. If you need any equipment, we can get in touch with an occupational therapist who can assess your needs.
For added reassurance, we are monitored by the Care Quality Commission and Care Inspectorate Wales. So, you can be confident knowing you’ll receive the highest quality of care you’d expect from the UK’s most widely trusted homecare provider.
Page reviewed by Carmen Dussoye, Regional Clinical Lead, on April 17, 2024.