Living in my own home
Will I be able to live in my own home?
Support is available to help blind and visually impaired people continue to live independently in their own home, this includes:
- Community care, provided by your local council's social services department. Care can be anything from help with shopping to adaptations to your home that make it more accessible. A needs assessment will be carried out with you in your home before any appropriate support is provided.
- Aids and equipment -the following types of equipment are all available to buy: talking microwaves, scales, jugs, liquid level indicators, iron guards, big button telephones, task lighting, bath water level alert, talking alarm clocks, bump ons and devices for labelling food and other items around the home.
Other concessions are available in the home if you are blind or visually impaired. British Telecom offer a wide range of services for visually impaired people, including free directory enquiries and big button telephones. If you are registered blind, you are also entitled to a 50% discount on the cost of your TV licence and if you are over the age of 75 licences are free of charge.
If you are unable to cook meals for yourself at home, you may be eligible for Meals on Wheels. For a small charge, Meals on Wheels will deliver hot or frozen meals direct to your home. Contact your local council for more information.