Resources

|

Fact Sheet

Assistive Products

Assistive products make a daily difference to enable better grip, turning, picking things up, pulling things on, reaching or maintaining balance.

At some point in our lives, we may require additional resources to carry out our daily tasks. Our hand function, mobility or sensory functions may change over time due to injury, impairment or ageing.  It's good to know there are options available to assist when or if our circumstances change.

Do I hire or buy?

You may be thinking of buying a piece of equipment or hiring.  Hiring gives you the option to try before you buy.  If you have a relative visiting who requires equipment for a short period of time, hiring the equipment you need is a good solution.  Consider hiring mobility equipment for your next family event or special occasion if standing or walking long distances is a challenge.

Viewing and Buying Equipment

There are a range of suppliers of assistive products to make daily living easier.  Some have online shops so you can see what is available, and the prices, before you go ahead with any purchase.  You can check the range of products online at Aspire Canterbury .Online sales will have freight charges added so it is good to check what local suppliers have to offer.  A list of West Coast suppliers can be found on the Firstport website

Am I Eligible for Government Funded Equipment?

If you have an impairment (for example, physical, intellectual, sensory (that is, vision or hearing) or that is age-related) which is likely to last longer than 6 months, and you find it difficult managing daily tasks, you may be eligible for Government-funded equipment, housing or vehicle modifications.  A Needs Assessment determines your eligibility to qualify for funded equipment.

Equipment that may be funded, may include shower chairs, wheelchairs, walking frames, walking sticks, communication devices and hearing aids. The equipment is on loan to the person for as long as it continues to meet their needs.

If you need funding assistance to purchase or adapt a vehicle, buy a scooter or any other outdoor equipment to enhance mobility, you can request a grant from Lotteries Community Matters