Use Safety Aids

Safety aids can make your everyday life easier. It is important to use aids that meet your needs and fit you correctly. Your health care provider can help you choose the right equipment.

Canes and walkers

Canes and walkers 

  • Check the rubber tips and treads on your cane or walker wheels. 

  • In the winter, use an ice pick on your cane. Remember to flip it up when you go indoors. 

  • Get help paying for mobility aid if you qualify for the Assistive Devices Program. 

Bathroom aids 

  • Install well-anchored grab bars by your shower, tub and toilet for support. 

  • Have non-slip surface inside the tub and shower. 

  • A raised toilet seat or a bath seat are available if needed. 

  • A hand-held shower head makes showering easier. 

  • Walk-in tubs and bath lift are available if needed. 

  • Visit Ontario Renovates program to find out if you qualify for funding for repairs and/or home modifications. 

  • Accessible Housing by Design factsheet 

Personal Emergency Response Systems

  • Personal Emergency Alert systems can help you and your family feel more secure about living alone.   

  • Smartphone and Smart watch Apps can help you manage your medications, connect with friends and family, detect a fall, and offers tools like a flashlight and a magnifying glass. 

Other safety aids

  • Find out about other devices at local medical supplies stores or pharmacies: reachers or grabbers, night light, large-handle utensils, pot/bowl stabilizers, first aid kits, etc.

Who can help?
  • Talk to a health care professional, such as your doctor, pharmacist, nurse, physiotherapist or an occupational therapist to help you choose the equipment you need.  
  • If you are receiving home care services from Home and Community Care Support Services, they may be able to help.   
  • Visit www.healthcareathome.ca/contact or call 1-800-538-0520  
Where can I buy safety aids?
  • Many are available in pharmacies, hardware and department stores, and places that sell medical supplies.
  • Some things like bathroom grab bars should be installed by a qualified professional.    
How much do safety aids cost?
  • Costs can vary. Funding, grants, and tax credits might be available to buy more expensive equipment. An assessment is required.

Where can I get help with costs?

Assistive Devices Program (ADP)  

Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP)  

Ontario Renovates Program   

  • Provides limited financial assistance to low-income older adults and persons with disabilities for the required repairs and changes to the home to support independent living.   
  • Call 2-1-1 
  • Visit the Ontario Renovates Program website for more details.

March of Dimes Canada Assistive Devices Program

Home Accessibility Tax Credit (HATC)  

  • When completing your annual tax return, you may be able to claim this credit. It is a non-refundable tax credit for eligible home renovation or alteration.    
  • Visit Home Accessibility Tax Credit (HATC) website for more details.  

  *This list is not exhaustive and is current as of June 2023. 

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