Aids for Disabled People in Cardiff

There are a huge range of aids for disabled people in Cardiff, individuals with disabilities have access to a variety of aids designed to enhance mobility and daily living. Below is an overview of commonly used aids, including examples, approximate costs, and purchasing options.

1. Wheelchairs

Wheelchairs are essential for individuals with limited mobility, offering independence and ease of movement. They come in various types:

• Manual Wheelchairs: Propelled by the user or an attendant, these are lightweight and suitable for those with upper body strength. Prices range from £150 to £1,000.
• Electric Wheelchairs: Battery-powered and controlled via a joystick, ideal for users with limited upper body strength. Prices range from £1,000 to £5,000.

Example: The Drive DeVilbiss Lightweight Aluminium Wheelchair is a popular manual option, priced around £200.

2. Mobility Scooters

Mobility scooters assist individuals who can walk short distances but require support for longer travel. They vary in size and features:

• Portable Scooters: Lightweight and foldable, suitable for travel. Prices range from £600 to £1,500.
• Heavy-Duty Scooters: Designed for rough terrains with higher weight capacities. Prices range from £1,500 to £5,000.

Example: The Green Power JH500 Electric Mobility Scooter is a robust option, priced around £2,000.

3. Walking Aids

Walking aids provide stability and support for individuals with balance or minor mobility issues:

• Canes: Simple support for balance, priced between £10 and £50.
• Walkers/Rollators: Frames with wheels and seats for added support, priced between £50 and £300.

Example: The Drive DeVilbiss Nitro Rollator is a popular rollator, priced around £200.

4. Stairlifts

Stairlifts are motorized chairs installed on staircases, aiding individuals who struggle with stairs:

• Straight Stairlifts: For straight staircases, prices range from £2,000 to £3,000.
• Curved Stairlifts: Custom-built for curved stairs, prices range from £5,000 to £8,000.

Example: The Halton Slimline Straight 130 Stairlift is a reliable option for straight staircases.

5. Hearing Aids

Hearing aids amplify sound for individuals with hearing loss:

• Behind-the-Ear (BTE): Suitable for most types of hearing loss, prices range from £500 to £3,000.
• In-the-Ear (ITE): Custom-made to fit the ear, prices range from £1,000 to £3,500.

Example: Siemens Hearing Aids offer various models to suit different needs.

6. Visual Aids

Visual aids assist individuals with impaired vision:

• Magnifiers: Handheld or stand magnifiers, priced between £10 and £100.
• Screen Readers: Software that reads text aloud, prices vary widely.

Example: The Optelec Compact 6 HD Speech is a portable video magnifier with speech, priced around £1,000.

7. Communication Devices

These devices aid individuals with speech or communication difficulties:

• Speech Generating Devices: Electronic devices that produce speech, prices range from £500 to £5,000.
• Communication Boards: Low-tech boards with symbols or letters, priced between £20 and £100.

Example: The GoTalk 20+ Communication Device is a user-friendly option, priced around £150.

8. Adaptive Kitchen Utensils

Designed to assist individuals with limited hand mobility:

• Ergonomic Utensils: Easy-grip handles, priced between £10 and £30 per utensil.
• Rocking T-Knives: Allow cutting with minimal effort, priced around £20.

Example: BunMo Adaptive Utensils offer a range of options, with sets priced around £25.

9. Bathroom Safety Equipment

Enhances safety and independence in the bathroom:

• Grab Bars: Installed near toilets or in showers, priced between £20 and £50.
• Shower Chairs: Provide stability while showering, priced between £30 and £100.

Example: The Yescom Adjustable Toilet Safety Frame Rail is a sturdy option, priced around £40.

Purchasing Options in Cardiff

Local retailers offer a variety of these aids:

• Ableworld Mobility & Stairlifts: Offers a wide range of mobility aids and services. Visit their website
• CareCo Cardiff Showroom: Features an extensive selection of mobility products. Visit their website
• Ability Living & Mobility: Provides products to support active living. Visit their website

Financial Aids for Disabled people

Financial assistance is available to help cover the costs of these aids. The Disabled Facilities Grant, offered by Cardiff Council, assists with expenses related to adapting homes for adults or children with physical disabilities, promoting greater independence.

Additionally, organisations like the British Red Cross provide short-term loans of mobility equipment, including wheelchairs, which can be beneficial during recovery periods or while awaiting permanent solutions.

Regarding financial support, Disability Living Allowance (DLA) has been largely replaced by Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for individuals over 16 in England and Wales. PIP is designed to assist with extra costs associated with long-term health conditions or disabilities. To apply, contact the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to request a claim form. When completing the form, it’s crucial to provide detailed information about how your condition affects your daily life and mobility. Resources like Citizens Advice offer comprehensive guidance on filling out the form, including advice for each question and tick box.

Citizens Advice

Citizens Advice recommend being thorough and honest in your responses, providing specific examples of challenges faced, and considering keeping a detailed diary of your daily difficulties to support your application.

Beyond PIP, other benefits may be available depending on individual circumstances. Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) provides financial support to those unable to work due to illness or disability. To claim ESA, you’ll need a medical certificate from your GP and must complete a questionnaire detailing how your disability affects you. The assessment process evaluates your capability for work and determines eligibility.

Additionally, individuals receiving PIP may be entitled to other benefits such as Housing Benefit, Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income Support, Universal Credit, Working Tax Credit, and Pension Credit. Disability premiums, ranging from £20.85 to £163 weekly, may also be available depending on eligibility.

It’s advisable to consult with local disability support organisations or benefits advisors to explore all available options and ensure you receive the support you’re entitled to.