How to live independently with a disability

For some people, getting out of bed in the morning or dressing themselves is not something they have to think much about. For others, such as those who live with certain forms of disability, it can require more thought or planning and can’t be taken for granted.

Whether you were born with a disability or it’s something that’s developed as you’ve got older, such as a visual impairment or severe osteoporosis, you can still continue living your life as independently as possible.

How to live an independent life

Below we've outlined some steps you can take that could make living independently easier and more manageable for you.

Allow yourself to rely on people

Even if you are able to live independently for the most part, you might still need extra support from people, such as help with tasks or transport. Without the right support, living independently could become more difficult.

You may require a support system of people who are there when you need them and can help you with anything you find challenging. For example, you might have family members who come by to visit and help with shopping and cleaning, or a carer for more personal tasks like getting dressed. You’ll know the aspects of living alone you need help with and the tasks you’re willing and able to carry out yourself.

Obviously, it all depends on the kind of disability you have, but getting support from other people can allow you to keep enjoying an independent life. Your support system could include:

• Family and friends who provide informal help at home.
• A visiting carer or nurse.
• Local community or volunteer services.
• A Disabled Living Centre, where you can access tailored advice and equipment.

Seeking and accepting support from others when needed can help you maintain your independence for longer.

Wear a personal alarm

Accidents or sudden illnesses can happen at any time, to anyone, and this can be especially true if you live with a disability. For example, if you’re visually impaired or have limited mobility, you may trip over something or feel unwell and struggle to reach a phone. It’s important that you feel safe at home and confident that help is available when you need it.

A personal alarm could help you. If you take ill or fall while no one is around, you could easily call for help without needing to move or leave the house. The alarm can be worn around the wrist or neck in the form of a pendant. Should an incident occur, you can push the button to be connected to a 24-hour monitoring centre.

Age Co offers a range of personal alarms to suit your needs:

• In-Home Alarms – Ideal if you spend most of your time at home. They work throughout your home and garden (up to 300 metres from the base unit).
• Out-and-About GPS Personal Alarms - Designed for those who want extra reassurance when away from home. These GPS-enabled devices work anywhere in the UK.

Some in-home and out-and-about alarms include automatic fall detection so help can be called even if you can’t press the button. Once you’ve pressed the button, you’ll be able to speak to the Emergency Resolution team through the base unit or pendant (depending on your model). If they can’t reach you, they’ll contact your chosen keyholders or, if needed, the emergency services. Whatever the situation, you’ll be in safe hands with a personal alarm.

Organise your home for your needs

An important part of living with a disability is ensuring that your home is suitable for your needs. Doing this could make any tasks easier and more manageable for you.

Here are some ideas:

• Arrange furniture so that it’s in the best position to allow you to manoeuvre easily and safely.
• Eliminate clutter and items that could get in the way. For example, instead of having a coffee table in the middle of a room, it might be better to have a set of small tables that can be placed nearer the sofa at the edges of the room.
• Space out furniture if you use a wheelchair to make access easier, and consider widening doorways if needed.
• Altering the height of surfaces, such as kitchen counters and bathroom sinks, to make them easier to use.
• Look out for potential safety hazards, including trailing wires and wet floors, that could result in a fall.
• Add extra light switches, handrails, or ramps if required, to make moving around safer and more convenient.

Check what grants you qualify for

There is help available for people living with disability and long-term illness, including the Disability Living Allowance and Personal Independence Payments, as well as grants that can help you to alter your house for your needs.

To find out more about the financial support and grants you may be eligible for, visit the GOV.UK website or contact your local council’s adult social care team for advice. You can also get guidance from Age UK about benefits and home adaptation grants.

You can also claim back VAT on any items or equipment that are purchased for a disability, including adjustable beds, stairlifts, wheelchairs and medical appliances. To find out how to claim VAT relief, you can visit the HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) guidance page or speak to the supplier, as many will provide information and help you complete the claim.

Summary

Living independently with a disability is about having the right balance of support, safety, and confidence.

• Build a reliable support system that works for you.
• Make simple home adaptations for comfort and safety.
• Wear a personal alarm so you can call for help at any time.
• Explore financial assistance to make independence more affordable.

With the right tools and planning, you can continue to live independently safely and with peace of mind.