Definitions

Aids and equipment are available to support a wide range of disabilities and health issues.  Examples of Aids and equipment include:  

• Induction loops  
• Portable hoists  
• Shower seats  
• Commode chairs  
• Tableware with supporting features  
• Specialist furniture  
• Transfer boards/mats  
• Specialist WC seats  

Aids and equipment are available through a range of sources, including purchasing from specialist suppliers and Integrated Community Equipment Service (ICES) managed by Health and Social Care, where equipment is usually loaned to a resident.  

Assistive technology refers to technology that allows an individual to maintain or improve their ability to perform tasks which are part of everyday life.  It can be used to assist a person with memory-related tasks, help with planning or organising tasks, assist with maintaining or improving speech or hearing.   

Examples of technology includes:  

Safety  

• Automatic lights  
• Automated shut off devices   
• Water isolation devises   
• Fall sensors   
• Alarms   
• Door sensors   
• Boundary alarm systems   
• Tracking devices or location monitoring services  

Health   

• Telehealth systems  
• Hearing and vision aids   
• Medication reminder systems   
• Blood or glucose monitoring systems   

Enhancing the quality of life  

• Video footage   
• Digital photo frames   
• Digital games, puzzles and apps  
• Home hubs, radios   
• Social media   

Housing 21 is a leader in providing digital connectivity for older people. By partnering with Appello a major programme is in place; to invest in digital call systems to replace analogue equipment, improve core functionality and digital access. Now and in to the future digital call systems will provide a suite of digital independent living solutions that integrate both safety and well-being technologies into residents’ homes. This will empower residents to lead independent, engaged lives for longer.    

See Appendix v - assistive technology solutions linked to Appello digital call systems.  

Housing 21 will not support the installation of additional call equipment from external sources that is not linked to the call equipment provided in individual apartments. Residents will be encouraged and supported to make best use of the alarm call system provided in their home.  

Home adaptations encompass both minor and major adaptations. Minor adaptations are the most common adaptations and cost under £1,000. They include: hand rails, grab rails, ramps, steps, lighting improvements, lever taps, heating controls, key safes and door/window/curtain opening/closing equipment, monitoring equipment for specific conditions, such as dementia, to enable someone to remain at home.    

Housing 21 will support and encourage the use of well-designed and aesthetically pleasing adaptations that look good and are contemporary in appearance.   

Major adaptations cost £1,000-£10,000, these include: bathroom adaptations, provision of level access showers and wet-rooms, toilet installation/replacement, door widening, alterations to room layouts, kitchen adaptations and stair-lifts.   

There are also more extensive adaptations that can cost more than £10,000, for example the provision of an extra bedroom or bathroom.