As part of our free Carer Training programme, we run an event once every 2 months at the SMART Home at Edinburgh Community Rehabilitation and Support Service. This is a chance to see how you or someone you care for could benefit from smart home technology that supports safe and independent living. For example, voice-assisted home controls, home security, and new digital devices.
To find out when the next session is, visit our Carer Training website.
These should enable you to live independently and look after your needs safely.
Equipment could help you with things like:
- Bathing or showering
- Dressing and undressing
- Going to the toilet
- Moving around your home
- Cooking and eating
And adaptations might include:
- Layout changes in your kitchen or bathroom
- Ramps inside or outside your property
- Rails and seats in the shower or bathroom
- Chairlift on your staircase
If you care for someone who is vulnerable in their own home, you can also set up a community alarm system for them. This is useful if their frailty, illness, or disability means they may not be able to phone for help in an emergency.
You can get alarms and monitors (known as Telecare) in the form of a necklace or bracelet, or motion sensors in your home. When the alarm goes off, the system will notify key contacts who can come to help.
Equipment, adaptations and alarm systems can all be set up through your local council.
Edinburgh contacts
- Information from Edinburgh Council about applying for adaptations
– This will involve an assessment of your home by an occupational therapist. - Social Care Direct
– 0131 200 2324 or - Disabled Living Centre at Astley Ainslie Hospital
– 0131 537 9177 (option 5) or - Community Equipment Service
– 0131 529 6300 or - Care and Repair
– Affordable DIY and repairs for older and disabled residents. 0131 337 1111 or
Midlothian contacts
- Information from Midlothian Council about applying for adaptations.
– This will involve an assessment of your home by an occupational therapist. - Adult Social Care
– 0131 271 3900 or - Midcare
– Telecare (alarms and monitors) service from Midlothian council.
Other contacts
- British Red Cross
– offers a wheelchair hire service and sell other mobility aids
– contact 0300 456 1914 or - Living Made Easy
– advice and information for older people, disabled people, and carers. You can get independent guidance on equipment and adaptations.
