Adapting a flat- does this service exist?

[SpraggleWaggle]

My mum now needs some adaptations to stay in her flat- a bar by the loo to help her stand up etc.

None of us really know whats available and what would help her. Is there a service that comes to your home and assesses where improvements could be made? DM is happy to pay both for the advice and the changes.

Gp should be able to send OT over for assessment, done via social services I think

Contact your councils social services team for a needs assessment

I think you get in touch with adult social services at your council and an assessment gets carried out. Then the work can be done by approved tradespeople- you may or may not have to pay depending on income/need etc

Yes, look up 'private occupational therapist' who can assess and provide via private service,

Many handymen arond that will fit rails etc, you buy them

Search for 'disabled adaptations' and it will help

Contact Age Concern - they will certainly be aware

Good luck

Hey OP,

You don't need a GP or SS to make a referral for an OT everywhere. Google your local authority OT and usually it's an email or webform that you complete.

There is a bit of a waiting list unfortunately, but things such as grab rails are easily sorted where there is a need.

My DMum had an OT round (arranged by the falls clinic) who both recommended some adaptations and arranged for them to be put in place (no charge, as DMum had reached her local authority's qualifying age for this to be a free service - I expect T&Cs for contributions will vary between areas)

Her GP surgery may well be able to signpost her local services

Agree with the others this is usually provided for free. A starting point would be the GP

Contact the local Adult Social Care team for your Mum. They can arrange for am OT assessment. In our LA the equipment is free, it's basically on loan for as long as needed. The Social care assessor can also support your mum to access other services like Technology Enabled Care.

Good luck

My mum had a visit from an Occupational Therapist (OT) who helped with several issues.

AgeUK is a good place to start. Give them a call.

Another vote for the local adult social care team. They also often provide, or at least offer discounts on, things like keysafes and falls alarms.

Word of caution

Just like NHS, local gov social services are bursting at the seams so there is criteria for a service and massive waiting lists. Dont take my word for it give them a call - well its like this in London at least

Someone mentioned the "Falls Team" - they are often affiliated to NHS but will see people that have had falls in the community or getting discharged from hosptial and are prone to falls risks.

At times as OP suggested, paying yourself gets the service in same or next day, just a rail there and one in another place along with a gadget or two can make all of the difference.

However, do give Soc services a call just in case your local does fast-track visits for the most vulnerable or have no waiting lists.

Good luck