Lifestyle

You should ask to speak to an occupational therapist as they can advise you what help you need and write any necessary supporting letters. You should also contact your local social services department to find out what help or benefits you are entitled to. Our booklet Independent Living and Arthritis will give you some information about aids and modifications which could help you around the home.

You have the right to have your needs assessed by social services (social work department in Scotland, or your local health trust social work team in Northern Ireland). Usually this will involve a visit at home from an occupational therapist to assess your needs. 

They will recommend equipment and adaptations, such as handrails or adjusting the height of light sockets. The local authority (or local council in Northern Ireland) may help to provide any equipment or adaptations, or you may have to use your Direct Payments or pay for items yourself.

Direct Payments are local council payments to enable people to arrange and pay for their own care and support services, and/or equipment, instead of receiving them directly from the local authority (local council in Northern Ireland). 

If you need to get adaptations for your home, make sure you shop around for the best deal as equipment can be expensive. The Disabled Living Foundation has an up-to-date database on the suppliers of equipment that can help you retain your independence. You can contact the DLF on: 0845 130 9177 (weekdays, 10am-4pm) or email: info@dlf.org.uk

You can also contact your local social services department to see if they can provide any financial help with home adaptations.

If you need funds to buy specific equipment or adaptations to help you retain your independence, you should contact your local social services department as they can provide you with information about what you are entitled to.

The Disabled Living Foundation (DLF) has an up-to-date database of equipment for disabled people and people with arthritis, with details of suppliers and costs. You can contact the DLF on 0845 130 9177 (Mon-Fri, 10am – 4pm) or email: info@dlf.org.uk

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) will need to be informed of any health condition that will last for longer than three months. Once you inform them, it is unlikely that you will have to re-take your driving test. You can email the medical department of the DVLA at eftd@dvla.gsi.gov.uk or call on 0300 790 6806.