Getting Practical Help

When caring for a person at home, equipment and other materials may be needed. This can help make the person who is ill feel more comfortable and help them to be cared for more safely and easily. It is important to keep talking with the health professionals, especially about what practical help is useful and available.

While services differ between states and territories and between regions, a wide variety of help is often available – from local councils, local hospitals, regional community and health centres, Cancer Councils and various local voluntary bodies. This help can include:

Loan of equipment and other practical items for use in the home and for helping with mobility outside the home
Home help or help with gardening
Help and advice on diet and food, meals on wheels
Nursing help with physical care.

Aids and equipment help people maintain their independence and safety. A range of equipment is available that can help at home and on outings. Physiotherapists and occupational therapists are the best health professionals to assist and advise. They may be able to arrange to have the equipment at little or no cost.

Resources

The Cancer Council of Australia has a website with information on cooking for someone with cancer.
Some of the following pages from the Canadian Virtual Hospice may be helpful. Contact a health professional before buying or renting any equipment or supplies as these may be obtained through the local health service.
The Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centres have a range of services to help people live more independently at home. They also have brochures in different languages.

This page was created on 26 May 2009 and is due for review in May 2011
Last updated 11 June 2009