Equipment and funding: a practical checklist

Start with the person, not the product. An assessment can help your family avoid buying equipment that is unsuitable or unsafe.

Republic of Ireland only · Last reviewed: 18 July 2026

Download PDF Back to printable resources

Checklist

Before buying anything

Write down the daily task that is difficult: getting upstairs, showering, standing, dressing, eating, hearing or moving around.
Ask the person what would make that task easier.
Ask the GP, public health nurse or local primary care team whether an occupational therapy, physiotherapy, audiology or other assessment is appropriate.
Ask whether equipment should be trialled before a decision is made.
Check who will fit it, show everyone how to use it and arrange repairs.
For mobility, lifting or bathroom equipment, get professional advice before buying.

HSE community-funded aids and appliances

Ask the relevant healthcare professional whether the item is on the HSE national community-funded list.
Check who is authorised to assess and prescribe that item.
Ask whether supply, fitting, training, servicing and replacement are included.
Do not assume every listed item is funded for every person. HSE prescribing criteria apply.

Housing grants to check

Housing Adaptation Grant for Disabled People: larger changes such as ramps, accessible bathrooms, lifts, fixed-track hoists or wheelchair space. Current maximum: up to EUR 40,000, subject to approved costs and household income.
Mobility Aids Grant: smaller mobility works such as grab rails, ramps, stairlifts, level-access showers or fixed-track hoists. Current maximum: up to EUR 8,000, subject to scheme rules and a means test.
Housing Aid for Older People Grant: essential repairs such as structural work, rewiring, heating, water, sanitary facilities, windows or doors. Current maximum: up to EUR 10,700, subject to approved costs and household income.
Apply through the local authority. Ask whether an occupational therapist report is required and wait for written approval before starting work unless the council says otherwise.

Medical Card and other routes

If healthcare costs are causing hardship, include receipts and evidence of buying or renting healthcare appliances in a discretionary Medical Card application.
If the person has a specified long-term condition, check whether necessary medicines or appliances are covered by the Long-Term Illness Scheme.
For hearing aids, ask the GP about HSE audiology. Adults with a Medical Card may receive HSE hearing aids; other adults may qualify through the Treatment Benefit Scheme.

Keep one shared record

Assessment or referral date and professional contact details
Equipment requested and funding route
Application reference and decision date
Supplier, warranty and repair contact
Training provided and review date

Your next step

One clear assessment can save the family time, money and uncertainty. Begin with the local primary care team or HSE Live on 1800 700 700.

Sources

Checked 18 July 2026. Links may change.

Republic of Ireland guidance only. This is general information, not medical, legal or financial advice. Schemes, rates and eligibility rules can change. Check the linked official source before applying or changing an existing arrangement.