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Caring for a Loved One at Home: A Practical Supplies Checklist for New Carers
Many people become carers overnight, after a hospital stay, a fall or a diagnosis. Alongside everything else, you suddenly need supplies you've never bought before. This checklist helps you get organised quickly.
Key takeaways
- Start with hygiene, continence, skin care and safety basics.
- Set up a small, organised supply station near where care happens.
- Contact Carer Gateway (1800 422 737) for free support and respite.
- My Aged Care (1800 200 422) is the entry point for aged care services.
Everyday care supplies checklist
Hygiene and infection control
- Disposable nitrile gloves
- Hand sanitiser and liquid soap
- Disposable wipes and no-rinse cleanser
- Paper towels
- Bin liners and a lidded bin
Continence and skin care
- Continence products in the right size and absorbency
- Disposable underpads for bed and chair
- Barrier cream and moisturiser
Safety and mobility
- Walking aid set to the correct height
- Toilet safety frame or raised seat
- Shower chair and non-slip mats
- Night lights
Health basics
- First aid kit with dressings and saline
- Thermometer
- Medication organiser and an up-to-date medication list
Set up a care station
Keep a tray or trolley with gloves, wipes, a fresh continence product, underpads and barrier cream near the bed or bathroom. It saves time, reduces mess and makes it easier for other family members or support workers to help.
Look after yourself too
Caring is demanding. Carer Gateway offers free counselling, coaching, peer support and respite to Australian carers. Planned breaks help you keep going for the long term.
Getting services and funding
- Older people: contact My Aged Care for an assessment for home support services.
- People with disability: the NDIS may fund supports and consumables.
- Continence products: the Continence Aids Payment Scheme may help eligible people with costs.
Everyday care supplies
Gloves, continence products, underpads, wipes and daily living aids delivered to your door.
Continence products →Disposable gloves →Mobility & daily living →Frequently asked questions
What supplies do I need to care for someone at home?
Most carers start with disposable gloves, hand sanitiser, wipes, continence products and underpads, barrier cream, a first aid kit and safety aids such as a toilet frame or shower chair.
Where can carers get support in Australia?
Carer Gateway (1800 422 737) offers free counselling, coaching, peer support and respite. My Aged Care (1800 200 422) is the starting point for aged care services.
Can I get help paying for care supplies?
Depending on eligibility, help may be available through the NDIS, aged care programs or the Continence Aids Payment Scheme.
How do I prevent pressure sores in someone who is bed-bound?
Reposition regularly, keep skin clean and dry, use pressure-relieving equipment as advised and check the skin daily. Ask a nurse for a pressure care plan.
Related guides
- Pads, Pull-Ups or All-in-Ones? Choosing the Right Continence Product
- Bathroom Safety for Ageing at Home: 10 Practical Changes
- Walking Sticks, Frames or Rollators? Choosing the Right Walking Aid
Sources and further reading
Last reviewed: October 2026 by the Innovation Project team.
This article is general information only and isn't a substitute for advice from a doctor, nurse or other health professional who knows your situation.