Mobility and homecare

There are more than 16 million people over the age of 60 in France, with 2 million of them over 851. The notion of “ageing well” is becoming a priority and the age advancing should not be an obstacle to autonomy.

As the population ages, homecare is developing significantly. It corresponds to a genuine demand: 90% of French people would rather adapt their home than go into a specialised residential facility2. However, homecare must not be to the detriment of their health. In fact, around a third of people aged 65 or over and living at home fall each year and falls are the main cause of death from injury in this population.

It is important to provide a safe, functional environment in order to maintain people’s mobility and autonomy at home for as long as possible. A number of equipment solutions have been developed to:

  • effectively adapt interiors, whether in the living room (lift chairs), the bedroom (medical beds, bed tables, neck pillows) or in the bathroom and toilet (bath seats, grab bars, raised seats);
  • help people get about day-to-day (walking sticks, rollators, walkers, etc.).

Lots of these pieces of equipment and accessories are medical devices regulated by French and European standards and are accessible on-prescription, with their costs covered by national health insurance or pension schemes, etc.

The person’s family, as well as personal care assistants or home-helps can provide valuable aid and advice to combine homecare with optimal quality of life.

Documentary sources :
Inpes : Repères pour votre pratique : Prévention des chutes des personnes âgées à domicile,
1 INSEE, déc. 2015.
2 Enquête Opinionway, 2012
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The bedroom and its bed

Elderly, ill or disabled people spend a lot of time in their bedroom. The bed is a private space to rest, which must be welcoming, safe and comfortable. Where a prolonged period of bed-rest is envisaged, it is also a matter of health.
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The living room

A place to read, watch television, host friends or family…: the living room is a place to spend time and relax, which needs to offer comfort and mobility to all. Special chairs, such as lift chairs that help people get up and shell chairs to provide support when seated, can contribute to this. Some
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The bathroom and toilet

For people who have mobility problems, the bathroom is a hazardous place! Slips and falls are more common there and the fear of accidents limits enjoyment. There are a few easy safety adaptations you can make! The toilet should also be adapted for greater safety and comfort.
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