Easier Living - a guide for older and disabled people living in London (view report contents)
Making your home safer
Lighting
As we get older we need more light to see clearly. Try to get the same level of light in each room as eyes take time to adjust. Pale walls help because they reflect light. Avoid gloss paint because shiny surfaces can dazzle.
Have lights at the top and bottom of stairs, which you can switch off at both ends.
Low energy light bulbs are cheaper to run and last longer so won’t need replacing as often. They are more expensive to buy, however.
If your sight is poor, contrasting colours on edges and steps help you avoid tripping and make door surrounds, switches and plugs easier to find.
General layout
Arrange furniture so you can move around easily. Be careful where you put low objects.
Keep your telephone in reach. A cordless phone makes this easier. Have a telephone extension by your bed.
The bathroom door should open outwards - if you fall inside you can be reached more easily. Replace awkward door knobs with easy to grip lever handles.
If you have steps to your door, consider a handrail. If the steps are steep, consider having half steps built.
Make sure any rails are fitted properly - some types of wall may need special fittings. Keep routes to the front door, fuse box and mains water clear so they are easy to get to.
Electrics
Don’t overload electric sockets - fit double points if you don’t have enough. Don’t have electric flexes trailing across the floor.
Smoke and gas detectors
Smoke alarms are a must - around £5. If you can’t hear you can get alarms which flash and vibrate under a pillow (from about £80). Carbon monoxide detectors alert you to a blocked flue or faulty gas appliance. From about £6 for a simple detector.
Calling for help
Emergency alarm systems use your telephone line to call for help in an emergency. All you do is press a button which you wear or carry. Local authorities often provide these at low cost - contact your social services or housing department. If you want to buy privately see Ricability’s guide Calling for help – a guide to community alarms.
Floors
Floors should be slip-resistant. If you can, get rid of loose rugs, worn carpet, slippery or uneven surfaces, specially in the bathroom. Avoid rugs on polished floors or fix them in place with carpet tape. Don’t have a loose rug at the top of the stairs.
Security
Secure door locks are a must. You may also need window locks or a burglar alarm system.
Crime Prevention Officers give advice on ways of making your home secure. Your local police station will arrange for a free visit. Some home improvement agencies may be able to help - also see Warm Front.
Help the Aged run HandyVans (itals) in four areas in London. Expert fitters will advise you and fit such things as door chains and viewers, locks, bolts and smoke detectors. You have to be of pensionable age. There may be a small charge. So far this service is available in Havering, Hackney, Hammersmith & Fulham and Redbridge.
Fridgesavers
If you have a fridge or fridge freezer which uses too much electricity you may be able to get a new one at very low cost from London Electricity. You need to be getting benefits and your fridge or fridge freezer must be in poor condition.
Call 0131 554 2532 for an application form.
Table of contents
About
this guide
Getting
around
Around
your home
In the kitchen
Bedrooms
Bathrooms
Hobbies
Making
your home safer
Getting
equipped
Adaptations
Help with
money
Helpful
organisations
Local contacts
(London only)
