Co-operative Xest Buying Guide for Mobility Aids and Daily Living Aids

F.  Help with using the telephone

        1.    Amplified Phones

2.    Phones with Big Buttons and Displays

3.    Phones with Improved Memory

A. Help with mobility 

Getting about under our own steam is something most of us take for granted. But if unaided walking is, or becomes a problem there are a number of solutions available. These range from a simple (but sturdy) walking stick to indoor walking frames and multi-purpose outdoor rollators that can incorporate shopping baskets and a seat.   

If you are considering buying a walking aid for the first time, we would always recommend that you should initially consult with your doctor as to why you are now less steady on your feet, as there may be treatment available and they will also be able to advise if and what type of aid may be suitable.   

If you are thinking about buying, keep in mind four important considerations:

·         do you seek greater stability and balance?

·         are you looking to improve your speed and evenness of stride?

·         is it simply that you want increased confidence and security?

·         or do you need to help take the strain off legs, ankles or feet by redistributing weight?

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Here's a summary of the options you have:

1.  Rollators Rollators (similar to a walking frame but with wheels and designed for outdoor use) offer reassuring support with increased mobility. Unlike walking frames, rollators provide a continuous (and therefore more natural) walking action as they don't need to be lifted clear of the ground. Rollators often include a number of additional features such as seat to allow you to rest whilst out and about, and shopping baskets or bags.  Rollators were traditionally made from either steel but the introduction of  lightweight aluminium has led to a new bred of lightweight, sleek, stylish and modern rollators. To better understand the features and benefits of different types of rollator, see our detailed buying guide to choosing a rollator. Alternatively, why not view our great selection of Rollators at co-operative xest by clicking this link

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2.  Walking sticks Walking sticks can help maintain a natural walking pattern and an upright posture when one leg is weaker or less mobile than the other. The correct way to use a walking stick is to hold the stick in the opposite hand to the affected leg, and move both the stick and the affected leg forwards together. Walking sticks come in many shapes, styles and materials.  Traditional wooden, aluminium or hi-tech carbon fibre; cut-to-length or adjustable; crook or ergonomic handle, there is certain to be a walking stick that is just perfect for you. For maximum support and control it's essential that you choose a walking stick that is the correct height for you, so to read our essential guide on measuring for a walking stick plus many other useful tips, see our detailed buying guide to choosing a walking stick. Alternatively, why not view our great selection of Walking Sticks at co-operative xest by clicking this link

 

3. Walking Frames Walking frames are an ideal choice if a high degree of stability and security are the key requirements.  This is because there are increased points of contact with the floor offered by a frame when compared with a stick, plus the frame itself provides a wider, more stable support.As more often the action of walking with a frame involves lifting the frame with each step, it is important that the frames are lightweight as well as strong.  Therefore, walking frames are most often made from ultra-light aluminium.  However, a heavier frame can provide even greater stability, in which case one made from steel may be more appropriate.To ensure that you can pick the correct walking frame for your needs and your height, see our detailed buying guide to choosing a walking frame. Alternatively, why not view our great selection of Walking Frames at co-operative xest by clicking this link

 

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4. Power Chairs Considerations to make when purchasing a Power Chair: ·        If you are in pain or discomfort when sitting, a power chair can provide you with the best chance of supportive seating. ·        If you cannot stand or walk consistently, even for a short distance, then a powered chair will potentially give you the chance of maximizing your mobility both indoors and out. ·        Think if you can access the home with your power chair as this will be really important if you need to use the chair both indoors and outdoors. ·        Also if you are going outdoors, think about where and how far you will go with your power chair and where it will be stored and charged. ·        How much room do you have indoors to turn around? ·        What items in your home would you like to access, maybe kitchen cupboards, table or a desk?  You may also want to be able to go out into the garden.             For a FREE home assessment call 0800 622 6003  Why not view our great selection of Power Chairs at co-operative xest by clicking this link

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5. Mobility Scooters Considerations to make when purchasing a Mobility Scooter: ·        Do you have a pronounced weakness or loss of movement or sensation on one side? ·        Where and how often will you want to use a scooter? ·        How far are you likely to want to go on regular journeys with the scooter? ·        Will you have to cross kerbs and go up hills or steep gradients? ·        Will you need to use the scooter on the road at times, as you may travel long distances? ·        Do you need the scooter to be carried in a car? ·        Where will you store the scooter and recharge the batteries? ·        How important is the ability to adjust the seat and control height and position? ·        Do you need a ramp to get into the home?      For a FREE home assessment call 0800 622 6003  Why not view our great selection of Mobility Scooters at co-operative xest by clicking this link

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6. Stair Lifts Stairs are a potential hazard in most homes so basic safety measures are particularly important. Most are just a matter of common sense: securely fixed carpets or floor coverings and absence of clutter, for example. But there are a number of other things you can do to minimise risk and make going up and down stairs easier.  Here's a summary of your options: 1. Stair rails On the landing, at the foot of the stairs and on the flight itself, adequate hand-holds are a simple way to help you stay safe. For more information, see our guide to choosing a stair rail. 2. Stair lighting We all know that stairs should be adequately lit, but when the house is in darkness it's easy to become disorientated. A nightlight on the landing is a simple precaution and an invaluable safety aid. For greater illumination, see our guide to choosing stair lighting. 3. Stairlifts Being able to just pop upstairs is something we all take for granted. But if it has started to become just too much of an effort at times, then a stairlift can be a simple, practical and secure solution. For more information, see our guide to choosing a stairlift. Click here to view co-operative Xests great range of Stairlifts

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Choosing a Rollator

Rollators, like walking frames, offer reassuring support with basic mobility. The crucial difference is that rollators allow a more natural continuous walking action as they don't need to be lifted clear of the ground. If a rollator seems to match your requirements there are a few points to consider...

      ·        Wheels or castors?

Essentially this depends on whether the rollator will be used indoors or outside. Around the home, castors are preferable because the floors are smooth and walking pace will be slower.Larger wheeled versions are designed to cope with pavements, low kerbs and moderately uneven surfaces. In addition the greater diameter of the wheels makes them easier to push at a brisker walking speed.

·        How many wheels?

Deciding which really depends on your level of mobility and confidence. Two wheeled versions have the wheels at the front and walking frame-type legs at the rear. These offer a greater degree of stability in that they won't move unless you push them forward. However they aren't as easy to manoeuvre.

Rollators with three or four wheels are suitable if you are more mobile. They allow a natural, continuous walking pace and are more manoeuvrable. This is because the wheels are fixed to the frame for multi-directional turning, like those on a supermarket trolley. Four wheeled rollators have more stability than 3 wheels however they also tend to be larger.

·        Height adjustable handlebars

Easily extendable and generally with a quick turn of a knob, enables the handlebars to slide up and down to the most comfortable height.

·       Steel frames or aluminium frames?

Both versions are sturdy but the advantage of the aluminium frame is that it is much lighter and therefore easier to manoeuvre through tight spaces and to transport.

·         What accessories?

A variety of attachments are available to help you 'customise' a rollator to meet your needs.

o   Seats: are invaluable when you feel like taking a break. A considerable choice is available from simple platforms, to more sophisticated models with back and arm rests which also provide support when sitting or standing.

o   Trays: either permanently fixed, fold-down or removable. These are very handy for carrying items such as cups or plates from room to room.

o   Shopping bags: a wide choice is available depending on the make and model of rollator.

See our great selection of Rollators at co-operative xest by clicking this link

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·        Does length matter?

         Whichever type of stick you choose (and it's mainly down to personal preference) the vital thing to remember is length. In other words is the stick long enough to provide maximum support? The best way to establish this is to stand in ordinary shoes with your hands relaxed by your sides. Now ask a friend to measure the distance between your wrist bone and the ground.

·       Wooden sticks can also be measured by placing the handle on the floor and marking the correct height with a felt tip pen. Then it's just a matter of accurate sawing!

·       Metal, aluminium and carbon fibre sticks usually avoid any DIY involvement because they're telescopic, allowing fine adjustment and safe locking with spring-loaded catches. Aluminium is lighter than metal. Carbon fibre is the lightest and 6 times stronger than aluminium.

·        Folding Sticks: these can be fixed or adjustable and have the advantage of folding so easy to store and transport

·       Shock absorbing sticks: these are fitted with a special shock absorbing tip which flexes when placed on the ground absorbing most of the shock and giving a more comfortable support. 

Having got the right length, let's get to grips with your stick...

·        Contoured handles: anatomically-shaped to spread the pressure over a wider area of the palm for less strain and greater comfort.

·        Crook handles: although possibly less comfortable to hold has the advantage of being easily hooked over your arm, leaving both hands free.

·        Right angle handles: more comfortable and offering better support than a crook can be fitted with a wrist strap to prevent dropping and for hanging up when not in use.

·        Quadruped and tripod sticks: when extra stability is needed but not necessarily a walking frame, then a four leg or 3 leg stick is the answer. Typically made from lightweight aluminium with rubber feet.

See our great selection of Walking Sticks at co-operative xest by clicking this link

Offering a large area of support, walking or zimmer frames are intended for indoor use. Because the frame has to be lifted with each step it doesn't allow a continuous walking pattern, but does provide greater stability than a rollator. 

Made from aluminium or steel, walking frames have three or four legs tipped with rubber ferrules to prevent slipping. Most frames have moulded rubber or plastic hand-grips which are often contoured to spread the pressure evenly over your hands.

·         How big, how high?

Walking frames come in a variety of sizes. While 'the bigger the better' offers greatest support, the width of doorways and space in your home is likely to determine what size is suitable.

Some are fitted with front wheels and in addition, the height of some frames is fixed, while on others it is adjustable.

·         Folding frames

Worth considering if you don't intend to use the frame all the time. Folding frames are easily stored and transported in the boot of a car.

·        Four-legged folding frames have hinged front legs and a mechanism allowing them to fold backwards.  

·        Forearm walking frames

Designed to let you take the weight on your forearms rather than your hands, this type of frame features adjustable troughs or gutters together with hand-grips.

·        Accessorise your walking frame: net bags and caddy’s that fit to your walking frame. They can carry a variety of items that still give independence whilst allowing you to maintain balance and security.

See our great selection of Walking Frames at co-operative xest by clicking this link 

Choosing a stair rail

Many staircases have only one banister so fitting an additional rail on the other side is always a good idea. After all, two hands are better than one. It's also worth considering a grab bar or bars at the top and bottom of the stairs. Fixed to a wall on the landing, ground floor and to the newel post, these provide support beyond the end of the banister.

Choosing stair lighting

Adequate lighting is essential for stair safety. And even after everyone's retired to bed, a nightlight on the landing helps prevent someone taking a wrong and potentially dangerous turning in the dark. Easy to install, most nightlights plug directly into a convenient 13amp socket and some have rechargeable batteries enabling them to switch on automatically in the event of a power cut.

Safety should be the first consideration when choosing a stairlift so always use a reputable company. They will be able to assess your needs and recommend the right stairlift for you.

There are two main types of stairlift designed to fit different kinds of stairs; straight and curved. A straight stairlift only travels up straight stairs while a curved stairlift is able to go round bends in the stairs and along landings and half landings. Stairlifts incorporate safety features that will ensure that they will only work if there is sufficient power to take you up and back down the stairs. Stairlifts are also available in different colours and fabrics… even leather!

Click here to view co-operative Xests great range of Stairlifts

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B. Help with independent washing and bathing

 An invigorating shower in the morning, a relaxing soak at night - simple pleasures that aren't so simple if you're suffering from an injury, ill-health or just not as mobile as you used to be. Fortunately there are a host of helpful, thoughtfully-designed products that make your daily bathroom routine more comfortable, convenient and care-free. And remember, it is recommended that products that need to be fitted to the wall or floor permanently should be fitted by a qualified professional.
Here's a summary of the options you have (click to view more):

1. Bath Boards & Support Seats
2. Bath Lifts
3. Bath Support Rails & Grab Bars
4. Bath Steps
5. Shower Chairs & Stools
6. Help with Independent Washing & Bathing

Co-operative Xest have a great range of products to help with idependent washing and bathing, click here to view.

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1. Bath Boards & Support Seats When sitting down in the bath is a problem, there's a simple solution: sitting up on a bath board or support seat. There are a considerable number of different types and models available (more than you might expect) but before you decide it's a good idea to consider the following: ·        Type of bath Steel/enamel baths are fine for most types of board or seat. Plastic, polythene and poly/carbonate baths don't usually suit seats that are wedged into place as the sides of the tub won't provide sufficient rigidity and strength. In this case bath boards that sit across the bath are more suitable. ·        Size of bath Most boards and seats are adjustable or are available in different sizes so bath size isn't normally a problem. However unusually large, narrow or oval baths may limit your choice. Some boards and seats have a semi-circular cut-away at the front to make personal hygiene simpler. While additional features may include arm rests, integral handgrips and soap dishes. For a better understanding of the features and benefits of bath boards and support seats, see our detailed buying guide to choosing a bath board or seat. Alternatively, Click here to see a great range of Bath Boards and Support Seats at co-operative Xest.

2. Bath Lifts A long relaxing soak is a great way to unwind at the end the day. And if crouching down to sit in the bath is a problem then a bath lift could be the practical solution. If you're considering a powered lift, it's worth bearing in mind the following points: ·        Number of lifts per charge for battery-powered models. ·        Method of recharging batteries. ·        Type of hand controls - especially important if you have limited  strength in your hands. ·        Seat type - various models provide differing levels of comfort and  support. Which is best for you? Back rests - a moulded one-piece seat and back rest means you  have to sit in an upright position. A reclining back rest often  provides better support if your balance is impaired. ·        Capacity - obvious, of course but easily overlooked. Will the power of the lift be sufficient for your needs? For further information on what's available, see our buying guide to choosing a bath lift. Alternatively, Click here to see a great range of Bath Lifts at co-operative Xest

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3. Bath Support Rails and Grab Bars You've probably read that most accidents happen in the home. And without sounding over dramatic, one of the 'black spots' is the bathroom. Hard edges on wash basins and baths, plus wet, slippery surfaces can be an uncomfortable combination! One of the best and most reassuring safety precautions is the fitting of secure and supportive rails and bars. Why not take a look at what's available to make daily washing and bathing more relaxing and a lot less stressful? See our guide to choosing a support rail or grab bar. Alternatively, Click here to see a great range of Bath Support Rails and Grab Bars at co-operative Xest

4. Bath Steps For many people getting into the bath can be a bit of a hurdle so why not consider a bath step? Used in conjunction with bath grab bars they give added confidence and security. See our guide to choosing a bath step. Alternatively, Click here to see a great range of Bath Steps at co-operative Xest

5. Shower Chairs and Stools Enjoy the efficiency, convenience and economy of a shower while comfortably seated - that's what this section is all about. Ranging from basic platforms to contoured chairs, you'll find a wide variety of simple installations to build your confidence and make a daily shower safer and more secure. Before choosing a shower chair or stool consider what shower area you have; do you have a standard shower or a walk in wet room? You will need to measure the area carefully to ensure the seat will fit comfortably. Also you need to consider the tray or floor of your shower. This is because plastic trays may crack under-weight concentrated onto four legs - think of the damage stiletto heels can do to flooring and you'll appreciate the problem. However, to fully appreciate what's available, see our buying guide to choosing a shower chair or stool.Alternatively, Click here to see a great range of Shower Chairs and Stools at co-operative Xest

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6. Help with Independent Washing and Bathing Short-term injuries or incapacitating medical conditions - both can make something as simple as taking a bath or shower a problem. Fortunately there are a number of thoughtfully-designed products that hand you intelligent solutions. For way of making bathing easier, more comfortable and safer, see our guide to help with independent washing and bathing. Alternatively, Click here to see a great range of Bath and Shower Accessories at co-operative Xest

Before deciding on your selection it's important to consider what your board or seat is made from as this determines strength, comfort and ease of use.

• Moulded polymer
  Lightweight, easy to clean and resistant to damage.
• Wooden - polished, painted and plastic coated top
  Warmer to the touch and offering greater stability. However as the polish can wear away with frequent use, regular checking is advised.
• Wooden - cork top
  Comfortable and anti-slip, this can be both an advantage and disadvantage. Although a cork surface adds security, sliding on and off, when getting in and out of the bath is not so easy. 
• Coated metal top
  Stronger and therefore suitable for prolonged use, the smooth surface makes sliding across this type of board easy. On the down-side the weight of metal boards and seats means they are less easy to manoeuvre and place in position. 
• Padded tops
  Provides extra comfort especially if you are thin or in pain. 
• Slatted and perforated tops
  Allows the water to drain efficiently and are less slippery to sit on. However, this type may not be generally as comfortable as a solid-topped board or seat.

Click here to see a great range of Bath Boards and Support Seats at co-operative Xest.

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So with all the types of bath lifts to choose from, which is the right one for you? It is recommended that when choosing a bath lift you compare the shape and dimensions of your bath with the specification of the bath lift you are considering. Does the bath lift recline? Is there enough space in your bath to facilitate this recline?

• Powered lifts
  There are two types of lift to choose from:
• Motor-driven
  Often powered by rechargeable batteries, this type of bath lift uses a compact electric motor to power the lifting mechanism.
• Compressed air power
  This type uses an electrically powered compressor to inflate a cushion lifting mechanism.

It is reassuring to note that modern bath lifts incorporate safety features that will only allow the bath lift to lower into the water if there is sufficient power to raise the bath lift back up again. 

Alternatively, Click here to see a great range of Bath Lifts at co-operative Xest 

Providing a helpful hand grip when and where you need it, support rails and bars come in a variety of shapes and sizes to suit the location in your home and your specific requirements.

• Bath grab bars - are most are permanently fixed to the wall, but there are some types that adhere with vacuum/suction pads. These have a quick-fix, quick-release function that's useful for temporary support when you're visiting friends or on holiday. Some even have indictors that show when the bar is securely fixed.
• Bath support rails - can easily be fixed to the edge of the bath by a vice life grip (and are therefore quick and easy to remove) or are secured permanently to the floor. 
• Horizontal rails - very useful when sitting down or standing up. Positioned at the correct height they allow you to push down for support which most people find easier than pulling up. 
• Inclined rails - with a rail positioned at a slight incline you can use your forearm for support. This spreads your body weight over a larger area - a good idea if your hands or wrists are weak or painful. 
• Vertical rails - because they provide a variety of hand positions, this type is especially helpful when standing up or sitting down. 
• Angled rails - excellent for providing steadying support, a rail fixed at 45° provides a variety of hand-holds while keeping your wrist in a natural comfortable position. 
• Bath side rails - this type clamps to the side of the bath with a hand grip projecting above the rim. Some styles also require that the rail is fixed to the floor, and are particularly suitable for most modern baths, which aren't designed to provide sufficient support. 
• Cross bath rails - fixed above the taps, this sort of rail provides reassuring stability while bathing but won't provide sufficient support for standing or sitting.

Click here to see a great range of Bath Support Rails and Grab Bars at co-operative Xest 

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Generally made from strong durable polymer, bath steps come in various sizes to suit your needs; some are even modular so that you can build up to the height you require. They will have an anti-slip surface and feet to provide extra grip.

Click here to see a great range of Bath Steps at co-operative Xest

The safer and more comfortable alternative to standing in the shower, purpose-made chairs and stools are very reassuring when balance, fatigue or slippery shower trays pose a problem.

• Shower stools
  Simple and straightforward and perfectly adequate when only moderate support is required. Although they don't tend to have back rests, many stools have hand grips or side handles often in the form of basic tubular arm rests. Many also feature height adjustable legs. If extra assistance is required then there are a variety of perching stools which feature slightly sloping seats that make it easier to manoeuvre on or off the stool; convenient if bending is a problem due to hip injuries.
• Shower chairs
  More comfortable and more supportive than stools, shower chairs feature higher backs and arm rests. Ergonomically contoured or fitted with padded upholstery (waterproof, of course) they often feature a cut-away section at the front to facilitate personal washing.
  Free standing or fixed folding?
  Whether you decide a seat or a stool is right for you, there's one more decision to make: free-standing or fixed folding.

§  Free standing seats and stools
These lift in an out of the shower as required and therefore may need the assistance of a helper. However they are easy to remove when not in use and are portable.

§  Fixed folding seats and stools
This type is usually fixed to a wall within the cubicle and has legs that fold down to rest on the floor. The folding facility saves space and means the shower is easy to use for other members of your family. 

Click here to see a great range of Shower Chairs and Stools at co-operative Xest

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Confidence and self-reliance are states of mind - but they're easily influenced by physical well-being. If that's impaired even something as mundane as taking a bath can seem daunting. Here you'll find some brilliantly simple ideas for making your bathroom routine easier, more comfortable and safer.

1. Making bathing easier
   How do you soap between your toes without touching them? Or scrub your back if you have limited arm movement? Come to that, how can you scrub the soles of your feet while standing or sitting? The answer to all three questions is: with a special range of long handled sponges, pads and brushes. Lightweight, flexible and balanced for maximum control and convenience, they're the practical way to maintain your dignity and independence. 
2. Making bathing more comfortable
   From bath pillows for relaxing in the tub, there are lots of ideas to make bath time more relaxing and if even you are confined to bed there are inflatable wash basins to help facilitate hair-washing.  
3. Making bathing safer
   Wet slippery surfaces under foot are made a lot less hazardous with bath and shower mats. Then there are temperature indicators to check the water isn't too hot and modular bath steps to reduce the risks involved in getting in and out of the bath or shower.

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C. Help with using the toilet

1. Raised toilet seats Modern bathroom designers describe their units as being 'low-level' implying that this is desirable. Many people would disagree feeling that user-friendliness (particularly in the case of toilets) is more important than contemporary style! Never mind, the simple way to correct this problem is with a raised toilet seat. There are two way to achieve this: with a frame that fits round the toilet and supports a seat (these are often adjustable for height) or with a raised seat that clips onto the toilet bowl itself. To find out more, please see our buying guide to choosing a raised toilet seat. Choosing a raised toilet seat If maximum support and varied height adjustment are priorities, then a frame-mounted seat is probably the more suitable. However if space in the bathroom is confined (as it so often is) then a pan-mounted seat might be the practical option. Frame-mounted seats These attach to the surrounding toilet frame and can be adjusted to a comfortable sitting height.  This type is particularly helpful if you are tall or suffer from arthritis or stiffness in your joints making excessive bending a problem. Toilet pan-mounted seats As the name suggests, these fit securely onto the loo and come in a variety of thicknesses to match your height requirements. Designed to clip on and off easily, this type of raised seat means the toilet is easy to use for other family members. Padded toilet seats If extra comfort is required than padded toilet seats are the answer. Easy to fit they are generally made with a foam interior and an easy to wipe clean cover.

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2. Toilet frames and support rails When standing up or sitting down isn't easy, rails or grab bars are a good idea. Very reassuring when balance is a problem, they preserve your dignity and independence as well as providing a boost to your confidence and positive outlook. Whether you're thinking about installing a full frame around the loo or would just like the security of well-placed handholds, take a look at our buying guide to choosing a toilet frame and support rail.  Choosing a toilet frame and support rail Deciding which is best for you depends on the level of support you'd like and the space restrictions of your bathroom.  Toilet frames Designed to fit around the toilet bowl, these can be either free-standing or fixed to the wall behind the loo with support legs resting on the floor. The advantage of a frame is that it provides maximum support when standing and sitting down, with rails that can be gripped with both hands is necessary. Alternatively, the side rails can be inclined or contoured/padded to provide support for the lower arms if your wrists are painful or you're concerned about the strength of your grip. Support rails The layout of many modern bathrooms means that the loo is situated in a corner. This may mean there is insufficient space for a frame in which case a grab or support rail is your best option. Mounted on a wall beside or behind the toilet, they should be positioned to provide easy comfortable leverage for either pushing down or pulling up on.  See our great selection of Toilet Frames and Support Rails at co-operative xest by clicking this link

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3. Commodes If you are considering purchasing a commode then you may be concerned about how aesthetically pleasing, comfortable or hygienic it is to use. There are a range of commodes on the market available to suit everyones needs including economical commodes for those on a budget, fold away commodes for storing away and luxery self flushing porta pottis. Many are also very discreet and can even complement the decor of your home. To see this range of commodes including the benefits of owning each commode please click this link

D. Help with getting in and out of bed

As we spend between a third and a half of our lives in bed, comfort is a priority. And so too is the convenience and ease with which you can get in and get out.

Depending on your personal needs: height, support and assistance with moving about in bed, sitting up and lying down, there are a number of options available:

1. Bed grab bars Provide a secure and reliable support to hold on to when you're sitting up and getting out of bed and when you're climbing back in. To discover more, see our buying guide to choosing a bed grab bar.

2. Bed raisers Basically these are extensions to the bed legs that enable you to choose the height that's most comfortable and convenient. For more information, see our buying guide to choosing a bed raiser.

3. Bed blocks With raised handles and wide, load-bearing bases, these make moving from a sitting position to standing beside the bed easier. Find out more by seeing our buying guide below to choosing bed blocks

4. Bed Poles By providing a dependable support over the bed, these assist you in sitting up in bed as well as changing your position and getting up. For additional information, see our buying guide to choosing a bed pole.

5. Bed Ladder Hoists Back problems, sports injuries, painful stomach muscles - there are lots of reasons why sitting upright in bed can be difficult. The answer: ‘ladder hoists', the simple way to give yourself a helping hand. Find out more by seeing our buying guide to choosing bed ladder hoists.

Choosing a bed grab bar

Providing support and leverage, grab bars and handles are very useful for helping you retain your independence. Securely fitted, they can help you get into or out of bed under your own steam, or with minimal assistance.

Here are a few points worth considering if you're thinking about buying a grab bar:

·        Some are fixed while others lock into a choice of different positions. Exact location of a fixed bar is important to make sure that it doesn't cause an obstruction in getting in and out of bed.

·        Bed-attached rails must be securely fixed. Some, such as the sort tucked under the mattress, rely solely on your weight to keep them in position

Choosing a bed raiser

If the bed's height (or rather the lack of it) makes getting in and out a problem, there's a very simple solution. Bed raisers - placed under the legs - increase the height for easier standing and reduce the amount you have to bend when sitting.

When fitting raisers it's important to ensure that the legs are raised equally. Increasing the height of just one set of legs is inadvisable as it puts a strain on the bed's frame and could cause it to collapse. Remember too that double beds may have four, six or eight legs - all of which need raisers.

In addition, always make sure that the type of raiser is suitable for the bed legs, e.g. castor, square or round section.

Here are some of the types that are available:

·        Cylindrical plastic sleeves: the bed legs stand inside the sleeves and inserts of varying depths are used to alter the height of the bed. 

·        Screw-in raisers: these are designed to screw in between the frame of the bed and the leg or castor.

·        Replacement raisers: are substituted for the original bed legs or castors. They are usually attached by screw or bayonet fittings. 

·        Block raisers: cube shaped, these have different sized recesses on each of their sides in order to accommodate varying leg shapes and diameters.

·        Wheeled raisers: are fitted with castors to allow the bed to be moved easily.

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Choosing a hand block

Simple to use and inexpensive, hand blocks are designed to help you change your position in bed when sitting, as well as assisting you in getting up. Comprising a broad flat base supporting a raised moulded handle, each block is placed on either side of your body enabling you to push down and raise yourself up with less effort. 

Choosing a bed lifting pole

Sometimes called pull-handles, these are designed to make moving around in bed - as well as getting in and out - easier. Most consist of a floor-standing cantilevered gantry supporting an adjustable handgrip suspended over the bed. Pulling on this allows you to shift position more easily in bed as well as swinging your legs over the side in order to get up.  

Obviously it's important that the lifting pole is correctly positioned and secured. Also bear in mind that you'll need sufficient strength in your arms and upper body to use this type of support successfully. 

Before choosing a lifting pole, you should consider the following:

·         A moulded handgrip is more comfortable to hold and a strap that allows length adjustment provides greater convenience.

·         If used with a divan bed, ensure that there is sufficient space to slide the base underneath and if possible, attach it to the headboard for extra support.

·        Some models dismantle for transporting. This type is particularly useful if you're staying with friends or going on holiday. 

Choosing a bed ladder hoist

A bed ladder hoist is a simple but effective way of helping you sit upright in bed. The bottom ends of the cords tie around the bed legs, and the polymer ladder rungs can be gripped to pull yourself up in bed, using a hand over hand movement. 

Click here to see our great ideas to help with getting out of bed at co-operative Xest

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E. Help with maintaining comfort in bed

You've been told you have to stay in bed for a while. Okay...but you don't have to take it lying down! Sitting up at a comfortable angle can make you feel more independent while still following 'doctor's orders'. And if sitting up is followed by slipping down the bed, we've an answer to that problem too. Finally there's a range of products carefully designed to make meals in bed as well as reading, writing, knitting, sewing, jigsaws or just watching TV, simpler and more straightforward.  

Here's a summary of the options you have: 

1. Back rests If you have to stay in bed for a while, back rests are a very good idea. Offering comfortable support, they're a vast improvement on just propping your pillows against the headboard. To find out more on what's available, see our buying guide to choosing a back rest.

2. Leg rests Sitting up at an angle on smooth sheets often results in sliding down the bed. For two simple solutions, see our buying guide to choosing a leg rest.

3. Bed cradles Relieve the pressure of bed clothes on your legs and feet with a bed cradle which is a modern adjustable version of the tried and trusted hospital cradle frame. For more information, see our buying guide to choosing a bed cradle.

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Choosing a back rest

If you want to sit up in bed for several hours just propping your pillows against the headboard isn't very satisfactory. That's why there are a number of back rests available to make you more comfortable.

• V-shaped pillows Placed in an inverted position against the headboard, these can provide comfortable support for your shoulders, arms and neck.

• Free-standing back rests Designed with a wooden or metal frame for use under pillows. The angle of incline can be adjusted (rather like a deck chair) to provide the level of support you need.

• Armchair-shaped back supports Made from covered foam with a back and armrests, these are not adjustable but do provide additional lateral support. 

Choosing a leg support

Many people find that when their upper body is raised - while leaning against a back rest - they tend to slide down the bed. Two simple solutions are leg supports and footboards.

• Leg supports: are foam wedges or shaped pillows. Placed under your legs they provide a comfortable 'bolster' to prevent sliding.

• Footboards: attached to the end of the bed, a footboard provides a comfortable surface to push on with the soles of your feet in order to maintain your position. 

Choosing a bed cradle

A frame generally made from coated metal that fits between the mattress and the bed base, to allow the top of the frame to form a support cradle for the bedclothes. Adjustable versions are available and also ones that dismantle for easy storage or transport. 

Click here to view Back Rests, Leg Rests and Bed Cradles at co-operative Xest.

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F.  Help with using the telephone

Unfortunately with age, answering or using a telephone can start to become alot more difficult then it used to be. And In these times we live in there is a great emphasis on  creating the most technologically advanced and sophisticated devices, but all some of us really want to do is guarantee that we can pick up the phone, dial a number and speak to and hear someone clearly at the other end. This can be particularly important when we rely on telephones for an emergency and would like complete peace of mind that we can use it whenever we may need it. Fortunately there are a variety of great solutions that can guarantee this peace of mind, these are simple to use and can offer greater benefits than standard phones including improved hearing and vision features for the hard of hearing or seeing.

Corded vs cordless Phones

Choosing a corded or cordless phone both have their advantages so it is important to consider them carefully. For example, a cordless phone is convenient and will provide necessary reassurance that your telephone is always to hand. A corded phone, however, is less mobile but will carry on working during a power cut, providing a potentially vital link to the outside world.

1.    Amplified Phones  Amplified phones give the user the ability to increase volume output from a telephone. These features are often left out of standard phones or do not allow high enough volume levels for the hard of hearing. Amplified phones can give the user the ability to: •Adjust the volume of the voice of the caller. •Adjust the volume of the telephone ring tone •Provide compatibility with Hearing Aids •Offer various indicators of an incoming call such as a visual cue

2.    Phones with Big Buttons and Displays Many phones which have been designed with the elderly or disabled in mind can also offer other benefits too incuding improved vision and dexterity features. Such features may include: •Big button keypad to help make dialling a number a lot less fiddly •Vocalisation features which will vocally announce phone menu options, contact names, numbers and commands •Larger display screen to clearly display out-going and incoming calls

3.    Phones with Improved Memory Features If remembering who the people are in your phonebook is becoming more difficult then a photo ID memory phone may well be the solution. These phones allow you to place a picture of the contact over the buttons which give a quick and easy visual cue for dialling.

Click here to view a great range of telephones at co-operative Xest

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