Read how customers and residents in Solihull have benefitted from Aids and Adaptations.
Major works – Wash and dry toilet
Mr C lives in a Solihull Community Housing (SCH) bungalow which has ramp access and a level access shower room.
Although Mr C has a progressive neurological condition and uses a wheelchair, he is very independent. He has no formal care as he has a very supportive family who assist him with daily tasks and cooking.
Mr C was concerned about managing toilet hygiene and did not ask or expect his family to help him.
Outcome
Following an Occupational Therapy Assessment, a wash and dry toilet was provided.
Mr C said it was truly life changing and allowed him to maintain his hygiene and dignity.
Major works – Ground floor shower and ceiling track hoist
Mrs K suffered a sudden medical incident that left her paralysed on her right side.
Following rehabilitation at hospital, she was discharged home with a profiling bed (an electrically powered, hospital-style bed with an adjustable mattress). This was set up on the ground floor with a mobile hoist and slings.
Mrs K also had a care package which included four calls per day.
Occupational therapy
After an Occupational Therapy Assessment, it was recommended that:
- the dining area to be used as a sleeping area
- a ground floor shower room extension to be fitted at the back of the property
- a ceiling track hoist to replace the mobile hoist in the bedroom
These adaptations were funded through a Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG).
Outcome
The adaptations made a positive difference to Mrs K’s life.
Her daughter was trained to use the ceiling track hoist, so the care package was reduced to twice a day which meant less disruption to the family.
Mrs K was also provided with a tilt in space shower chair to replace the assisted strip washes in bed. She said the best feeling in the world was to have a shower and her hair washed.
Major works – Through-floor lift and level access shower
Doris* is 82 and lives alone.
She suffered a serious fall which left her in hospital. After completing rehabilitation, she was discharged home with a care package for personal care, along with a bed and commode in the lounge.
Doris has age-related problems including osteoarthritis, cellulitis and incontinence. She walks with a Zimmer frame and has family support from her daughter who lives locally. Strip washing was not sufficient for Doris due to incontinence and risk of skin breakdown.
Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy carried out an assessment to identify suitable access to bathing and sleeping facilities.
Doris said she was very unhappy about sleeping on the ground floor and not being able to access her bedroom, bathroom and flushing toilet.
A stair lift was suggested but discounted because of the narrow layout of the stairs and the nature of Doris’ condition.
Through the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG), Doris had a through-floor lift installed which travelled from the lounge to the back bedroom. This allowed Doris to safely access first floor facilities and enabled possible wheelchair use in the future. The bath was also replaced by a level access shower.
Outcome
The new facilities have allowed Doris to move back up stairs to sleep and shower.
She is able to use the lift independently, which has improved her wellbeing and risk of further falls. The care package has also been reduced to a single night time call.
*Name has been changed.