Simple and inexpensive gadgets that can help someone to prepare food, get washed or dressed or feel safer around their home are examples of the kind of products being highlighted.

This months ‘elf antics’ are part of a wider county council campaign to help support people who want to live independently in their own homes for longer.

To help spread the message, the team have recruited help from the Staffordshire ‘Happy at Home Christmas Elf’.  As well as sharing ideas online and on social media, the Christmas Elf has been out and about in the community meeting residents to demonstrate some of the gadgets.

Julia Jessel, Cabinet Member for Health, Care and Wellbeing at Staffordshire County Council said: “One of our main priorities is to help people lead healthier and happier lives and to support them to be able to live well at home for longer.

“Technology is really transforming many aspects of everyday life.  These simple and low-cost devices can really make the difference to the lives of people with a daily living need and can help them to be safer and more independent at home.

“We hope this fun Christmas campaign will help to highlight the range of simple and affordable assistive technology equipment available.  And of course, at this time of year, they make the perfect and meaningful gift for a neighbour, friend or family member for Christmas and help to make their lives just that bit easier.”

As well as showcasing a selection of the gadgets as gift ideas, the Happy At Home Christmas Elf has also paid a timely visit to MediQuip, in Stafford – one of the county councils largest providers of assistive technology equipment where.

A library of video demonstrations of assistive technology products, and an opportunity to compare a wide choice of solutions using an interactive Happy at Home house has also been made available.

People can explore the Christmas gift Ideas and other resources at www.staffordshire.gov.uk/gifts