A FULL RANGE OF OPTIONS
A great deal of equipment exists to make movement and transfers easier at home. Here are a few examples.
- In the bathroom: support bar (fixed or removable), seat or transfer board for the bath, raised toilet seat (with or without armrest), bath lift
- In the bedroom: removable bedside rails
- Elsewhere in the house: lift chair, stair lift, access ramp
If driving long distances becomes more difficult, the use of a walker or transport chair may prove useful.
If your loved one spends most of the time in bed or has very limited mobility, it might be a good idea to use a hospital bed or geriatric chair. In addition, the use of cushions or therapeutic mattresses could hep prevent the development of pressure sores.
MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICE
With the multitude of products available, it may seem difficult to make the right choice. Each piece of equipment has features that may or may not be suitable for your loved one's condition. Don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. An occupational therapist, for example, will be able to help you by assessing your loved ones needs, their environment and the equipment suitable for the situation.
WHERE DO YOU GET THIS EQUIPMENT?
Your CLSC
Before buying or renting equipment, check with your CLSC first. They generally have equipment you can borrow. Of course, the availability and timelines can vary from one place to another.
General or specialized stores
Pharmacies and big box stores have some equipment in stock. Pharmacies also offer rental services for mobility aids (e.g., wheelchair, walker, transport chair).
If you can't find what you’re looking for, you may need to turn to specialized medical and orthopedic equipment stores.
Always take the time to compare prices and find out about trial and rental options and return and refund policies.
Residential Adaptation Assistance Program
If your loved one has a permanent physical disability that limits them in the performance of their daily activities, they may be eligible for the Residential Adaptation Assistance Program from the Société d’habitation du Québec. Under certain conditions, the financial assistance may be up to $16,000.
For information and support in these steps, don't hesitate to call Caregiver Support at 1-855-852-7784. Our counsellors will point you toward the right resources.