Equipment, Adaptations and Improvements to the Home

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There are many different types of equipment that may enable people with dementia to remain independent for longer or make it easier for others to give support. Adaptations and improvements to the home may also help a person to stay at home for longer. Of course, each person is different. What may be useful for one person at a particular stage may not be appropriate for another. This factsheet looks at where you can go for advice and suggests some equipment and adaptations to consider. It explains how you can get equipment and the help that the NHS and social services can provide. It then gives details of financial help that may be available. People with dementia may find it harder to learn new skills or adjust to new ways of doing things due to gradual loss of memory or other abilities such as concentration. It can be helpful to introduce any equipment or make changes to the home in the earlier stage of the illness. Where to get advice If you are considering getting equipment for yourself, or someone you know, or are making adaptations to your home, seek advice from professionals as soon as possible. The following professionals should be able to help. An occupational therapist (OT) can advise on equipment and useful strategies to help someone with dementia with everyday activities, such as washing and dressing. As the dementia progresses, they can advise on appropriate ways to cope with the changes. OTs work in health and social services and in private and voluntary organisations. You can contact an occupational therapist through the GP or hospital consultant, through social services or, for independent OTs, contact the College of Occupational Therapists (see 'Useful organisations' at the end of this factsheet). A qualified physiotherapist (known as a 'chartered physiotherapist') can advise on mobility aids, such as walking frames and wheelchairs, and on safe

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