You will find some general information on ways you may be able to keep as well and active as possible on the Living Safely and Independently at Home in Fife website. This also has links to Fife’s online self-assessment tool.
Equipment for daily living
You can arrange various types of equipment yourself, including daily living aids and mobility equipment.
Some equipment to help with daily living is only available through self-purchase. This includes:
- dressing equipment (such as shoehorns, sock or tights aids)
- small kitchen and cooking equipment (such as adapted cutlery, jar openers or tilting kettles)
- lever taps
- 3 wheeled walkers
- Equipment required to carry out leisure activities or hobbies
You may also want to consider self-purchase to have a wider choice of equipment or avoid waiting for an assessment.
Living made easy provides advice and information on a wide range of equipment, including for self care and hobbies. This includes links to buy online.
If you can travel, Independent Living Centres in Edinburgh and Dundee offer equipment viewing and purchase advice. Phone to make an appointment:
Wheelchairs and walking equipment
Your doctor may request an assessment from NHS Fife's Physiotherapy services if you are having difficulty walking. Physiotherapists may work with you to improve your walking. They can also help arrange mobility (walking) equipment, such as crutches, walking sticks, zimmer frames, or rollators, if needed.
Wheelchairs and wheelchair cushions for long term use are provided by the NHS Wheelchair and Seating Service (WSS). You'll need a referral from your GP practice. If you've already been referred, you can phone them directly on 0131 537 9177 (option 1) between 8:30am and 4pm, Monday to Friday.
You can request short term wheelchair loans for a maximum of 12 weeks if you're recovering from surgery or illness or nearing end of life. They are not for leisure, holiday, or respite use. You should contact the Social Work Contact Centre to request this.
Shop Mobility and British Red Cross offer a wheelchair hiring service.
Commode or incontinence products
Contact your GP Surgery District Nursing Service for advice on managing incontinence and equipment.
Further advice and support
Furniture Plus have stores open to the public for purchase of donated furniture.
British Heart Foundation and Red Cross have home furniture in their charity shops.
For more general advice and support, The Well may be useful.
