General
There are numerous outlets with a huge range of equipment available to help you around the house. The choice and variety can be confusing but here are a few points to bear in mind:
- Equipment such as grab rails etc can be purchased through DIY stores.
- Equipment to help you with daily living can be purchased through major chemists or specialist companies.
- For larger items of equipment or adaptations, get at least two quotes.
- Where appropriate check warranties, servicing and maintenance and other general after sales back up.
- Try out equipment wherever possible.
You may be able to obtain some equipment through an occupational therapist.
For equipment to help with sensory impairment, see our sections on Sight loss and Hearing loss.
See our information about Safety in your home for advice about fire safety and smoke alarms.
The Disabled Living Foundation (DLF) offers independent, professional advice and information to help you find out what is available for private purchase. They have a Helpline on 0300 999 0004 where you can discuss areas of daily living you find difficult with an experienced advisor.
Click on our Equipment House below to find advice and suggestions on the right equipment to help you.
Telecare
What is telecare?
Telecare is a monitoring and alert system that can help support people to live independently in their own homes by providing users, their carers, family and friends reassurances that help is available in an emergency 24 hours a day.
How does telecare work?
Telecare equipment works through your telephone system, linking alarms, sensors and equipment in your home to an adviser in a monitoring centre. Probably the best known telecare equipment is the pendant alarm. There is a unit placed in your house with a built-in loud speaker and a microphone to allow hands free conversation. This unit works even when there is no electricity e.g. power cut or accidentally unplugged (up to 40 hours).
When activated, your equipment will connect you to the Telecare monitoring centre, where fully trained operators will speak to you through your unit. They will find out what kind of help you need and take appropriate action, such as contacting a family member or friend, carer, neighbour or the emergency services if needed. Where possible, the operators will stay on the line until help arrives.
Click on our Telecare House below to find out more about some of the equipment which is available*
(*Descriptions are for equipment provided by Hampshire County Council’s partner, Argenti. Other suppliers will provide similar but not always identical products.)
Further information
The Disabled Living Foundation has more detailed information and advice about Personal alarm systems and telecare.
Providers of telecare
Hampshire County Council may fund the provision of telecare equipment following an assessment which shows that you have an eligible need and you meet the criteria for funded telecare. The equipment will be supplied by its preferred telecare provider, Argenti.
If you are purchasing privately and want quick access to care technology please go the Argenti website or:
- email enquiries@argenti.co.uk
- phone 0345 265 8003.
Other providers of telecare are available with different options available in different parts of the county. You can search online for providers or equipment or you can contact:
- your housing association or your district or borough council (usually the housing department)
- charities such as Age UK
- the Telecare Services Association which has an online search for local providers
