Arthritis Support with free home adaptations are available to many people. These adaptations can make the home environment safer and improve independence.
Arthritis Support – Free home adaptations
Around 17 million people in the UK are living with arthritis and related conditions. However, Versus Arthritis says that 80% of people with arthritis, who are eligible for support, are missing out on arthritis support and free home adaptations. They have launched a campaign to build awareness about the arthritis support that is available for free. Such aids and adaptations can have a life-changing effect. The aim is to build awareness so that more people can be assessed and provided with the equipment they need.
Installing the correct equipment and free adaptations can lead to avoiding falls and therefore injuries and hospital admissions. In addition, other arthritis support equipment for dressing or cooking can help people stay independent. These free home adaptations improve people’s lives but also reduce the pressure on and save money for both the NHS and the social care system.
Arthritis Research UK Helpline
The Arthritis Research UK operates a helpline 08005200520 – call for free information, help and advice.
Versus Arthritis also has a wealth of information available. There is advice on dealing with pain and information about sleep. Further information on comfort in the home as well as the financial support for home adaptations mentioned above. Exercise and diet advice for those with arthritis is also provided as well as guidance for those providing care to someone with arthritis. There is an email newsletter that you can subscribe to. You can also subscribe to the magazine and there are hints and tips from other people living with arthritis.
Perhaps Gardiner’s could help you to live independently at home?
The symptoms of osteoarthritis are joint pain and stiffness, and problems moving the joint. Some people have swelling, tenderness, or grating when moving. Severity can vary greatly from person to person, and between different affected joints. For some people, symptoms can be mild and may come and go. Others experience continuous and severe problems which make it difficult to carry out everyday activities. Any joint can be affected by osteoarthritis, most often however it is the knees, hips and small joints of the hands. See your GP if you have persistent symptoms so they can confirm the diagnosis and prescribe any necessary treatment.
