Information and advice to help you remain independent

Living independently at home in Plymouth offers a sense of freedom and control over your daily routine. However, age or a disability can sometimes introduce challenges that make everyday tasks more difficult.

Within this section, you'll find information on a variety of solutions, equipment, and aids, all aimed at promoting a sense of dignity and allowing you to live life to the fullest.

• Bathroom and toilet: Discover tips for enhancing safety and independence in the bathroom, including grab bars, shower seats, and non-slip mats.
• Bedroom: Explore ideas for creating a safe and comfortable sleep environment, like assistive bed rails, bed risers, and nightlights.
• Clothing and getting dressed: Find solutions to simplify dressing tasks, such as reachers, dressing sticks, and easy-grip shoe horns.
• Food preparation: Learn how to make meal preparation easier and safer with recommendations for utensils, jar openers, and labelled cabinets.
• Eating and drinking: Explore options for non-spill cups, cutlery with built-up handles, and straws to make mealtimes more manageable.
• Seating: Discover the benefits of raised armchairs, lumbar support cushions, and swivel chairs for improved comfort and mobility.
• Personal and home security: Gain valuable tips on enhancing security with suggestions for door viewers, smoke detectors, and personal alarms.
• Mobility and transport: We explore options like walkers and wheelchairs to help you maintain your independence when moving around.

Beyond the the daily tasks

This section also extends beyond essential daily tasks and contains information about:

• Daily living aids: Explore tools and equipment to assist with everyday activities like picking up dropped items or reaching for objects on high shelves.
• Hearing aids: Learn about hearing aids and how they can improve your ability to communicate and connect with others.
• Vision: Discover solutions for those experiencing vision loss, including magnifiers and high-contrast lighting.
• Reminders and daily task management: Explore helpful strategies and tools to stay on top of daily tasks and routines.
• Managing your medicines: Gain valuable guidance on safe and effective medication management.
• Technology for household tasks: Learn how technological advancements can simplify household chores and enhance your independence.

Where to buy equipment to help keep your home safe

Plymouth City Council, NHS Devon, and Livewell Southwest have jointly commissioned NRS Healthcare to deliver the Safe+Well service, and they have over 2,500 daily living aids that you can purchase by mail order, telephone, or online.

View the Plymouth Safe+Well website

NRS has a dedicated phone line with a trained team of specialists who can answer any questions you might have. Just call 0345 6461860.

Other places to buy equipment from:

• Amazon - Mobility and Daily Living Aids
• Complete Care Shop
• Living Made Easy
• More Than Mobility

How to get adult social care support

Depending on your circumstances and how your needs are assessed, you might be eligible for support from the council. 

The easiest way to check what help you might be entitled to is to complete our online self-assessment. It only takes a few minutes, and at the end of the form, you have the option of making a referral and requesting a formal assessment.