Elderly FIL and bathroom adaptation

[OnefinesunnydAy]

Hi all,

My father (in his 70s) would like to change his bathroom into a wetroom and install a 'fall alarm'. Is this something the council would help him with, cost-wise? I've had a look through the relevant webpages but it seems to be more aimed at disability rather than 'just' old age. I would probably just install and pay for them myself in his position, but he would rather not pay for them himself. Thank you.

Does he have an adult social worker you can speak to? If not, Age U.K. give very good advice.

He can apply for a home physio assessment and then an improvement grant.

Thank you so much!

Contact your local authority and ask for an occupational therapy assessment for a Disabled Facilities Grant.
If he is on a means tested benefit he will qualify . If not he will need a financial assessment . It is a mandatory grant about access to facilities and age and prognosis are not taken into account , just physical ability.
Let me know if you have any questions .

Yes, in a nut shell the council can fit these after they do an assessment - as said, contact adult social care. It is free, BUT he will only get what they fit, ie he cannot choose from lots of different styles / tiles etc. If he's nervous of falling he can get a personal alarm that he wears - they are waterproof - like Carelink. He could get this very quickly - whereas a walk in shower may take months. My DM has been waiting since March.

www.nhs.uk/conditions/social-care-and-support-guide/care-services-equipment-and-care-homes/home-adaptations/
www.citizensadvice.org.uk/housing/moving-and-improving-your-home/help-with-home-improvements/

Thank you so much.