Paying for home adaptations and equipment

In the UK: start with your council

The NHS says your local council can assess your home and recommend changes, and that the home assessment is free. Small adaptations, such as grab rails, are often free.

• Ask your council for a home assessment (in England, through adult social services).
• For bigger changes, you could get a Disabled Facilities Grant from your council if you are disabled and need to change your home, for example because of age-related needs (GOV.UK).
• Equipment such as a raised toilet seat, and small adaptations, are provided free if a council needs assessment finds you need them (NHS).

In the US: Medicare and local help

Medicare Part B covers medically necessary durable medical equipment, such as walkers including rollators, if your provider prescribes it for use in your home. Medicare only pays if you get it from a supplier enrolled in Medicare.

For other help, the National Institute on Aging suggests your local Area Agency on Aging or social services, which know what support is available in your community.

Before you buy

• Get an assessment first, so you buy what you actually need.
• Ask an occupational therapist what will help most.
• Keep receipts and paperwork in case you apply for help later.