8 Kitchen Aids for the Elderly to Stay Independent in the Kitchen

 Living independently in one’s own home to as late an age as possible is a goal for most people. While day-to-day life may produce certain challenges unfamiliar to younger people, it’s worth remembering that there is an increasingly large range of innovative assistive equipment now available.

There are various pieces of equipment which can help with daily tasks in the bathroom or bedroom, and we’ve looked at some of those in other blog posts. Here we’ll focus on kitchen aids and talk through some of the options to consider, depending on the specific issues someone may face.

Special tin and bottle openers

Arthritis and certain other conditions may make it difficult to grip and twist jars, tins and bottles in order to open them. Essential Aids’ ‘Openers’ category features a number of clever gadgets which help with this task while reducing stress on the hands, fingers and wrists.

When opening tins of food with a ‘can style’ ring-pull lid, the ‘Can Key’, does a great job of doing the hard work for you. It is essentially a large lever which hooks under the ring pull. Once hooked, it’s easy to use the curved shape of the Can Key to apply leverage and open the tin.

The ‘Can Pull’ and ‘Ring Pull Can Opener’ have different shapes, but work in a similar way for this type of tin can.

Traditional tin cans, with lids which require mechanical opening, can also be tricky if you have weakened grip in the hands. Standard tin openers frequently dig-in to the fingers so might not be suitable for many elderly people.

The ‘Good Grips Chunky Can Opener’ mitigates against this problem with the use of oversize, rounded components, designed to be easier on the hands. It is a great option for people with arthritis.

Also in this category, the electric ‘One Touch Can Opener’ requires no pressure at all to operate - opening tin cans at the touch of a button.

Opening jars, bottles and other sealed lids is another day-to-day task which can become difficult if you have reduced strength in the hands or wrists. Essential Aids supplies a number of kitchen aids to help the user grip lids tightly, reducing the chances of them slipping in the hands and helping with the twisting action.

Some of these aids, like the popular ‘Anti Slip Jar Opener’ work by dramatically increasing the amount of friction the user can apply, thereby providing an excellent grip on the lid. This particular device is effectively a large silicon rubber ‘cap’, which fits over the lid. The user then grips the cap and twists, hopefully dislodging the lid.

Other similar products include the ‘Conical Jar Opener’ and the ‘Hand Grip Jar and Bottle Opener’.

Increasing leverage and grip are two factors which other opening devices exploit. The ‘6-In-One Multi Opener’ for instance opens many types of seal with his various grips, clamps and cutting edges. This versatile gadget helps open hard-to-grip seals, open bottle tops, ring pulls and jars.

Essential Aids’ range features a number of items which grip lids tightly and use leverage to twist them off. These include the ‘Plastic Multi Opener’, the ‘Jar Opener Mighty Lever’, the ‘Multi Purpose Opener’ and the ‘Good Grips Jar Opener’.

Perching stools for the kitchen

Also useful in the bathroom and shower, perching stools are excellent for sit/standing at kitchen worktops. For people with reduced balance, standing up for any length of time to prepare food may be difficult.

Perching stools offer a high seating position and have a tilted seat. The idea is to ‘perch’ on the front edge, keeping your feet flat on the ground. The stool therefore provides support while leaving the hands free to prepare food.

This is preferable to a conventional bar-stool as these require climbing up to use for most people, unless they are very tall.

Perching stools, which are almost all height-adjustable, are also great for washing up at the sink.

Gripping food for chopping and slicing

Holding food in position to be chopped can be difficult if you have a hand tremor. In its ‘Food Preparation Aids’ section, Essential Aids features chopping boards which help with this task, by gripping items firmly in place so they can be chopped or sliced safely.

One such product, the ‘Food Workstation’ provides a multi-functional preparation board with various integral gadgets.

One important feature is the adjustable clamp which may be tightened to exert the necessary hold on items of food. It also has a small area of upturned stainless steel spikes, which again can be used to grip vegetables and other food items in place, allowing them to be chopped up without slipping off the board.

These two features are useful for people with hand tremors or those who have the use of just one hand.

The moulded high-sided corner guards are shaped so that slices of bread can be held in place, allowing them to be buttered easily. There are also a variety of attachments which enable easy cleaning and grating of food on the board.

Underneath, strong suction cups hold the entire board in place.

While the ‘Food Workstation’ has great versatility, other options in the Essential Aids range are more specific. There are a number of ‘corner boards’ whose sole job is keeping slices of bread in place for spreading, for example.

There’s also the popular ‘Chopping Board With Knife’ which is a standard food preparation board with the addition of a large knife, attached and hinged at the tip. This allows the cutting motion to be kept under control - useful if you have the use of only one hand. It’s also great if you’re having difficulty using standard knives safely.

Non-slip mats

Preventing items from sliding around on hard tables or worktops is a problem which can be solved with the use of special matting.

High-friction rubber or ‘Dycem’ mats are made for exactly this purpose: stopping hard bowls, boards and other items from slipping. They’re great for worktops under chopping boards but also at the dining table for plates and bowls.

Cutlery with chunky handles

Using standard narrow items of cutlery can cause discomfort for those with arthritis in the hands or fingers. Many people who experience hand tremors also find narrow knives and forks harder to direct than cutlery with larger, heavier handles.

To combat these issues, Essential Aids supplies a number of cutlery ranges featuring over-size, large handles. Some of these sets also have extra weight, again assisting control.

One of the most popular options are the ‘Good Grips Weighted Utensils’. These have the oversized grips, are heavier than standard handles and have a ribbed section, making gripping.

The ‘neck’ of the cutlery can be bent into place, meaning the angle of the heads of the forks and spoons can be set to suit the user.

Also part of the Good Grips range is a ‘Rocker Knife’. This has a blade with an exaggerated curve to its cutting edge, which is intended to be rocked back and forth across food, rather than the usual sawing motion. This action tends to be easier for people with limited strength in their hands.

L-shaped handles and other items

Bread knives and larger utensils are available at Essential Aids with ‘L-shaped handles’. This design keeps the user’s wrist in a more neutral position than when using conventional straight knives. This principle is also used in certain garden tools for people with reduced strength in the wrists, forearms or hands.

Kettle tippers

In Essential Aids’ ‘Kettle Tippers and Teapots’ category there are a number of devices to make using these particular items safe, even for those with reduced strength or balance. With drinking tea a daily activity for people across the UK, young or old, these kitchen aids offer practical benefits.

The ‘Wire Frame Kettle Tipper’ is a popular item in this section. The kettle is mounted within the frame and a hinged bracket enables it to tip forward and pour out its contents as required.

The other models work in a similar way: some use a wire frame, while others are made from moulded plastic. What they all have in common is reducing the strain on the user as they tip the kettle to pour.

Another increasingly popular item is the ‘Uccello Kettle’ which has a design which makes it effortless handling boiling water.

The Uccello has a unique circular shape and a rotating cradle which allows the user to pour from it without having to lift any significant weight.

When filling this kettle, there is no awkward lid or spout to deal with. Instead, the hinged lid requires just a light touch to open.

Bibs and other items

While not necessarily aids for independence, Essential Aids’ kitchen section also has a range of adult bibs. These are excellent for use either by the person eating and drinking or the longer disposable ones are often used by carers. Adult bibs are available in washable versions or as disposables.

Other kitchen aids which might be useful include trolleys which help transport plates, bowls and other items from room to room without fuss. These are available in a number of designs, with large lockable caster wheels and one or two shelves.

Source :  http://essentialadislimited.over-blog.com/2020/10/8-kitchen-aids-for-the-elderly-to-stay-independent-in-the-kitchen.html

Aids To Ensure Bathroom Safety You Must Know

With increasing cases of falls in bathrooms, bathroom safety is becoming a serious concern for those who have to care for the elderly and individuals with limited mobility. While for us bathing is a relaxing experience but for senior adults, it is difficult task. Most falls that occur in the bathroom are a result of a lack of balance or slippery surfaces that cause tripping. Injuries that occur due to such falls range from mild injury to broken bones or serious injury.

You can avoid these types of accidents by implementing safety precautions and using bathroom aids like bath boards, bath steps, bath stools, bathroom grab rails, etc. In this way, you significantly can reduce the chances of injury. Secondly, security will ensure peace of mind. Realizing that the bath provides safety will increase the confidence of older adults or those with mobility issues. So, if you have an elderly person or someone with a chronic condition, investing in bathroom aids is a good decision.

Keep on reading to learn about two popular bathroom aids:

The Disabled Shower Seat

For most of us, showering is a normal activity that we carry out without any hindrance. But it is not so straightforward for people who are dealing with long-term physical impairment. In such cases, installing a shower seat provides a great deal of relief.

A shower seat is a well-known mobility aid to make the bathroom more accessible for people with limited mobility. It aids those who can not stand on their feet for a long time. This aid enhances safety by decreasing the chance of you falling in a slippery shower. It can be also helpful for those who are in a wheelchair. Lastly, it instils a sense of independence thus making lives normal.

To ensure safety, the following are some points you should consider before choosing a shower seat:

• Before buying ensure that the seat is robust in its construction and has a dependable weight capacity.
  
  
• Check if the seat you are purchasing consists of materials that are sturdy. For instance, plastic is lightweight but it lacks the required strength. While aluminium and steel are strong and corrosion-resistant.
  

Bath Seats for the Elderly

Sickness and ageing results in restrictions of bodily movements. Luckily, there are tools available that promote better living, independence, and safety.

A bath seat sits inside the bath and lets you to sit on a raised surface to bath without getting down to the very bottom of the tub. Reasons why elderly people need such bathroom aids are:

• Pain or weakness in your legs
• Back pain
• Balance problems or dizziness
• Pain or weakness in shoulders and upper body
• Recently had a hip or knee replacement

It is important to note that you do not use any other stool like a kitchen stool or a child's stool as a seat. These do not guarantee a non-slip foot and therefore are not safe. Consider these points before purchasing one:

• If you will be using it for a tub then remember that the width of the chair matters. It should be narrower than the tub.
  
  
• To be on a safe side, choose a chair that is strong enough to take the weight of the person.
  
  
• It has a seat swivel round which, when released, lets you lift your legs over the side of the bath. This reduces the risk of losing balance.
  
  
• It is easy to fit and has an adjustable width.

Final Remarks

For those individuals who cannot safely bathe themselves, because of lack of strength or limited mobility, equipment like shower chairs and bath seats can make life better. However, before choosing a bathroom aid, consult a medical practitioner. He will offer the best solution based on your ailment and also recommend some exercises to reduce pain.

Source : https://essentialaids.tumblr.com/post/633120286628364288/aids-to-ensure-bathroom-safety-you-must-know

Answers to Common FAQs on Wheelchair Ramp

Elder people and those with disability issues can use disability equipment for mobility. These equipment promote independence, safety, social inclusion, and a better quality of life.

Just like other disability aids, wheelchair ramp enables physically disabled people to move around safely, and enjoy their freedom. This equipment is an inclined plane installed in addition to or instead of stairs. Ramps allow wheelchair users to access a building more easily. A ramp can be permanent, semi-permanent or portable.

Here are answers to a few commonly asked questions on a ramp.

Q. What types of ramps is the best?

A. Choosing the type of ramp entirely depends on your requirements. Some people prefer a wooden one while others go for an aluminum ramp. So, before purchasing keep your requirements clear and consider the structure and foundation of your house.

Q. How do I determine the size of a ramps?

A. The size of the ramp depends on the height of steps/building. However, residential ramp guidelines recommend a ramp rise to a ratio of 1:12. This means that for every inch of the rise of your ramp should extend 12 inches in length.

Q. Does the weight of the ramps matter?

Ramps have different weight limits, ranging from 300 pounds to 850 pounds. However, it is necessary to ensure that the weight of the ramp best suits your requirements.

Q. What is the perfect ramps width?

A. Ramps, just like other mobility devices come in different widths. Just like the type of ramp, the width also depends on your needs.

Q. Where can I use an aero light ramps?

A. Aero light ramps are in trend and they are of superior quality. You can use it for both domestic and commercial purposes.

Q. Does the weight capacity provided by the equipment matter?

A. Different styles of ramps have different weight limits. They generally range from 300 pounds to 850 pounds. We recommend ensuring that the ramp has an appropriate weight capacity as per your needs.

Q. What if I need to transport the ramp?

A. For people with on the go mobility needs, a portable / suitcase ramp can be a good choice. It can also be helpful for individuals who temporarily require a ramp or wish to store it away when not in use. You get such a ramp in a variety of lengths ranging from two to twelve feet.

Q. How to maintain a ramp?

A. The maintenance of concrete and aluminum ramps is easy. Steel will rust and therefore it requires occasional maintenance. If you buy a wooden ramp, you will have to regularly maintain it using a wood sealer.

Q. How much is the cost?

A. A wooden ramp is the cheapest option if you use your material. But it can be expensive if a contractor makes it. The cost of steel and aluminum ramps is usually affordable.

Q. Is it secure?

A. Wood, aluminium, and concrete ramps have solid surfaces. This allows moisture to accumulate and freeze which could create a danger of ice film. A good option is a steel ramp. It has a gripping texture that prevents skidding. Its open-pattern ramp surface allows moisture to pass through. Moreover, steel and concrete are fireproof while aluminium and wood cannot withstand the heat of a fire.

Q. Can I recycle my ramp?

A. As steel ramps are made recycled steel, they are 100% recyclable. However, you will not be able to reuse wooden ramps because they consist of pressure-treated wood which contains dangerous chemicals.

Q. Can I re-sell the ramp?

A. When you no longer need a ramp, you can resell it. Steel and aluminium wheelchair ramps have a growing market. Consider re-selling it there.

Conclusion

If you have a loved one who uses a wheelchair then purchasing a wheelchair ramp is a smart choice. These answers to commonly asked questions might help you choose the best one.

Source : https://essentialaids.tumblr.com/post/633031469098582016/answers-to-common-faqs-on-wheelchair-ramp

Pain or Numbness in the Fingers? Time to Buy a Wrist Brace

Sudden pain, tickling or numbness in fingers is a common condition that generally affects people in jobs like packaging or data entry. The repetitive movement of fingers can irritate nerves leading to pain, swelling, and loss of muscle strength. These symptoms indicate Repetitive Stress Injuries, and a common RSI is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

The median nerve that goes through your wrist passes through the carpal tunnel which is a narrow path that consists of bone and ligament. If there is swelling in your wrist, it squeezes the tunnel putting pressure on the median nerve and causing pain and numbness. If there is excessive pain you might need to consult a professional. However, aids can help reduce the pain and provide relief. An orthopaedic aid like a thumb support or a wrist support can be of great help based on the severity and extent of pain.

Other conditions where you can find a thumb support or wrist support useful are:

• Arthritis - Types of arthritis like rheumatoid arthritis which is a chronic inflammatory condition, and osteoarthritis which is a progressive degeneration of the cartilage that cushions joints.
  
  
• Injuries like Skier's Thumb or Gamekeeper's Thumb - These refer to the stretching or tearing of the ulnar collateral ligament in the thumb.
  

Thumb injuries like sprains, fractures, and dislocations often happen from the sudden impact of falling to the ground.

Common Signs of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

• Aching, painful feeling near your wrist
• Numbness in thumb and first three fingers
• Tingling pain or pins and needles in your fingers
• Weaker hand grip
• Frequent dropping of things

If you feel that your carpal tunnel syndrome pain has expanded to wrists from thumbs, a wrist brace can be a better option.

Below are its advantages:

Wrist Stabilisation

A wide range of braces is available to cure injuries and ailments. Most of the wrist aids available help stabilise the wrist joint. Wearing a brace ensures that there is no additional movement happening which could increase pain. This enables the user to carry out daily tasks without interfering with the healing process.

Reduction in Swelling

When you immobilise the wrist with a support, it restricts movements thereby reducing swelling, pain, and inflammation.

Improves Healing Post-surgery

Patients who have undergone wrist surgery may wear a wrist brace to protect the site of the surgery and facilitate faster healing.

No Major Restrictions on Daily Activities

A brace is one of the most flexible orthopedic braces available. A number of users believe that aids like thumb or wrist braces can hinder their daily activities. So, they avoid wearing them despite acute pain.Certain braces allow the user to move the finger and thumb joints, thus allowing the continuation of regular activities.

People can use these braces even during activities that involve excessive movement of wrist and hands. They can also wear these braces while sleeping. They can also improve sleep by both protecting the wrist and immobilising it.

Studies suggest that wearing braces can improve the symptoms within a few weeks. But it entirely depends on how intense the symptoms are. It can be helpful if the symptoms are moderate. However, it is advisable to consult a health care provider if the symptoms aggravate.

Things to Keep in Mind to Avoid Excessive Pressure On Wrists:

• Avoid bending your wrist all the way up or down. It would be ideal to keep it in a neutral position.
  
  
• Cold hands can make stiffness even worse. Try keeping your hands warm.
  
  
• Take breaks at regular interval while working

Final Remarks

Orthopaedic aids like a thumb support or a wrist brace provide short-term relief and enable you to effectively carry out your daily tasks. If the pain or numbness in your fingers is bothering you, using braces can be a smart choice.

Source : https://essentialaids.tumblr.com/post/632497340368977920/pain-or-numbness-in-the-fingers-time-to-buy-a

Challenges of Impaired Mobility in the Bathroom and Ways to Overcome Them

 The physical restrictions old age may throw at us can be daunting, but it’s important to realise that there is equipment available to help. Lots of age-related conditions lead to symptoms like reduced balance or strength in various parts of the body, making some everyday tasks more tricky.

In other blog posts we’ve mentioned how these problems may arise in the bedroom when getting dressed, but in the bathroom there are another set of practicalities to consider.

Reaching difficult parts of the body in the bath or shower

Stiffness or a loss of flexibility through the back, hips and waist is a common issue for many people. This can make it difficult to stretch down to one’s toes for example. This may in turn may create issues surrounding putting on socks and shoes, for instance, and it may also restrict your ability to reach the extremities of the body for washing.

Long handled scrubbers and sponges really come into their own if you’re in this situation. They help reach your feet, over your shoulders, the back of your head and almost any other part of the body you might have trouble reaching.

Essential Aids supplies a number of this type of grooming tool, some with special features. The ‘Easy Reach Lotion Applicator’ for example has an innovative design which allows you to ‘load’ liquid soap or lotion in the head.

As you press the sponge head to the skin, it releases the lotion, allowing effective washing without having to stretch too far with a bar of soap!

Another practical tool is the ‘Long Handle Toe Washer’. This has a 24 inch shaft, wide hand-grip and towelling component which enables you to clean between your toes without needing to bend down. The towelling part can be replaced if it gets worn.

Long handles scrubbers sometimes have flexible shafts which can be bent into the perfect shape for your needs. One example is the ‘Long Bendable Handled Sheepskin Pad’.

As the name suggests, it has a scrubber made from real sheepskin, along with a bendable shaft, 24 inches in length. Its oversized grip is designed to make it easier to control for those who have difficulty with narrow handles because of a tremor or arthritic pain in the hands.

Long handled combs and hair brushes are also popular choices in the Essential Aids range. They are great for people who have restricted mobility in the arms and shoulders and have difficulty reaching up to their hair.

Other bathroom tools

Other items from Essential Aids for those who struggle to reach their feet, are foot scrubbers which fix to the floor of the shower. Usually they have sucker cups on the underside and an upturned scrubbing brush for the soles of the feet.

Some versions, like the ‘Foot Cleaner With Pumice’, have an integral pumice stone alongside the brush bristles.

Long reach toenail clippers are another popular grooming aid for the elderly. As with other long handled tools, they reduce the need to stretch in order to reach the body’s extremities.

For people with arthritis in their hands and fingers, tasks which require pressure with the grip on narrow objects may be uncomfortable. Using a toothbrush is one such daily job which can be painful. Some may find it less so if the handle of the toothbrush can be ‘built up’ to make it larger.

This can be done via some special foam tubing available at Essential Aids, or by wrapping tape around the brush, increasing the girth of the handle. The resulting expanded diameter is usually less painful to hold and can be easier to control for those with a hand tremor.

Similar methods are used to improve the comfort and control of cutlery in the kitchen.

The ‘Tube Master’ is another simple but clever bathroom tool which allows the user to squeeze a toothpaste tube with minimal effort. Like building up handles of toothbrushes, it’s great for those with arthritis in the hands who might find it uncomfortable exerting pressure through the fingers.

Using the toilet

People who are unsteady on their feet may benefit from a support rail fitted next to the pedestal. A rail may also help if getting up and down from a sitting position is difficult. Bad backs and a host of other conditions can lead to this particular task becoming challenging.

While not necessarily exclusively a toilet aid for elderly people, a toilet frame is a well established piece of bathroom mobility equipment.

If you’re unfamiliar with these, they provide a ‘box-like’ support frame which sits around the toilet pedestal. Typically made of aluminium, they offer two near-horizontal support bars on each side which can be used to lower yourself onto the toilet seat and back up to a standing position afterwards.

Fixing a toilet frame to the floor may offer added stability, but most modern units are now freestanding. Some, like the ‘Foldeasy Toilet Frame’, have flip-down foot-plates on which you rest your feet as you sit down and stand up. This increases the stability of the toilet frame as you lean on its arms.

This particular model has the advantage of folding up neatly after use.

Sometimes referred to as toilet surrounds, most models are adjustable so they can be set at the most useful and supportive height. Some also adjust in width - useful for larger or even bariatric individuals.

Using a raised toilet seat is another option if you have difficulty lowering or raising yourself from the pedestal. The idea here is similar to booster cushions for armchairs - to increase the overall height of the toilet seat, reducing the user’s distance of movement from standing to sitting, and visa versa.

Different heights are available, as well as various clamping mechanisms, so you should be able to find one to suit your own toilet. Some models are open while others have an integral folding lid, similar to that of a standard toilet.

Part of Essential Aids range features toilet frames come with built-in raised toilet seats. These models are useful for those who don’t want to directly fix a raised seat to the existing toilet.

A useful toilet aid for elderly people who might have difficulty reaching the loo in the middle of the night is the portable urinal bottle. These come with secure caps and wide openings, designed for ease of use and to reduce spillages.

Using the bath

Using the bath itself can prove challenging in later life. Climbing over the bath side, sitting down on the bathtub’s floor and back again may be difficult. While substantial pieces of kit like bath-lifts might be worth considering, there are simpler aids which may also help.

Bath seats which sit inside the bathtub are one such option. Similarly to a raised toilet seat, these work by increasing the height of the sitting level, meaning less distance of travel for the user. Most models fix to the floor by means of strong suction cups.

Bathroom aids like this are particularly useful when used in combination with others. A bath seat for instance works well with accompanying fitted grab rails. Rails fitted to the wall may work well, as may upside-down ‘U-shaped’ bathrails. These usually fit to the bath-side and project upwards.

Bath steps which make it easier to climb into the bath are another type of aid to consider if you find it challenging getting in and out.

Using the shower

The shower cubicle has one big advantage over a bath in that there’s no barrier to climb over to use it. For this reason, many elderly people choose showering over bathing.

Still, some may find it difficult to stand up comfortably for the duration of a shower. While a grab rail fitted within the cubicle may help with one’s stability, it may help to consider seating options too.

Essential Aids supplies a range of shower stools and chairs designed specifically for use within the shower.

Depending on the size of the cubicle’s floor, there are several styles which may be suitable. If space is an issue, a three-legged stool might be the best option, while chairs with four legs offer the greatest stability.

Seats which fold up against the wall are popular too, as they clear the space for other users who may not require their use. Obviously it’s important that they are fitted by a qualified professional who understands the wall material and the correct fixings to use.

Some fold-down shower seats have legs which flip down, offering more support to the seat itself. These models tend to have much greater weight bearing qualities, so are ideal for heavier individuals.

Many elderly people are unsteady on their feet and shower trays may well be slippery. If this is the case, a rubber or plastic compound shower mat may be worth considering. They usually stick to the floor of the tray via suckers and have a high friction top surface which remains grippy even when wet.

The ideas mentioned here are some of the fundamental tools which can help people remain independent in their bathrooms even if they are dealing with health conditions which compromise their strength or balance.

Source : https://essentialaids.tumblr.com/post/632407752333049856/challenges-of-impaired-mobility-in-the-bathroom

Things You Should Know about Grab Bars and Handles

 There are now numerous styles of grab rail available for people who require support to maintain their balance around the home. Here we’ll run down some of the most popular of these key mobility aids and provide some ideas for the best positions to install them.

Even outside the house, strategically placed rails can assist with climbing steps to the front or back door, or even in sheds or garages.

Grab handles for the bathroom

The bathroom is traditionally one of the main rooms of the home in which to install rails. Because of the potentially slippery surfaces, plus the need to lower and raise the body, there are multiple reasons to fit them.

Next to the sink

Standing at the sink may become difficult if you’re living with certain physical conditions. Just a short rail can make a big difference, providing something to hold while brushing your teeth.

Sometimes a rail in combination with a perching stool works well. The two together provide excellent combined support.

Next to the toilet

If you have discomfort when either sitting down or standing up again when using the toilet, a rail fitted to the wall next to it may be of benefit. An ordinary straight rail may well be enough, but there are larger installations available if you need them.

One option is a U-shaped drop-down rail like the ‘Folding Support Arm’ in Essential Aids’ range. It folds down from the wall when in use, providing a double horizontal support bar. It creates a stable leaning point, perfect for supporting the user as they sit down and stand up again.

When not in use, the rail clicks firmly against the wall, putting it well out of the way when others use the toilet.

For the maximum stability, some U-shaped rails are available with an additional support leg. These models have an increased weight tolerance, so are ideal for bariatric individuals.

Toilet frames are another option to help with transferring from a standing position to sitting, and back into standing. These aids sit on the floor around the pedestal, providing a waist high support point. Usually they are freestanding, but in some cases can be fixed to the floor in order to increase stability.

Most of the free-standing models are height and width adjustable. Some are made of steel, but increasing alumunium is the choice material, mainly because of its light weight and resistance to the corrosion in bathrooms.

Many models have a built in raised toilet seat. This has the benefit of reducing the distance of travel between standing up and sitting down.

Bath rails

Getting in and out of the bath can be a precarious process if you have compromised balance, strength or coordination. With the surface of the bath wet, slipping is something we all want to avoid.

Some people choose to fix a grab rail to the wall next to the bath, just to provide a point to steady themselves.

If the bath is fitted against the wall, a wall rail may not be in an ideal position. Support on the ‘open’ side of the bath is potentially more beneficial.

A better option may be a bath rail fitted to the bath side itself which extend upwards, giving the user support in the immediate area that they need it, as they left their leg over the bath side.

As with wall-mounted rails, most bath rails feature curved, almost U-shaped tubing. This, in addition to the typically wide diameter, means they don’t have corners or sharp edges on which you might injure yourself, should there be a fall.

This type of rail clamps securely to the outside wall of the bath and in most cases will extend upwards to around 20 inches above the bath-side’s height. Because of their positioning away from the wall, bath rails may also offer support as you get dressed or undressed.

Essential Aids supplies a number of these rails, each with a slightly different specification or clamping mechanism. One of the most popular is the Deluxe Bathtub Grab Bar. It has the high, curved rail described above and features a secure clamping system which requires no tools to install.

Suction grab rails

Rails which use suction to fix to tiled surfaces are an option if you don’t want to screw conventional rails to the wall.

Suction grab handles work well on strengthened glass or tiles which are completely flat and smooth, but are not suitable if there’s any kind of indentation pattern to the tile’s surface.

Modern units have very large, wide-diameter suction cups which use an internal valve and switching mechanism to ensure they fix firmly in place. A switch is used to release the suction when it’s time to remove the rail.

Grab rails for the shower

Rails fitted within the shower cubicle makes sense if you find yourself needing support in this potentially slippery area of the bathroom. Non-slip shower mats are also a good idea if the floor of the cubicle gets slippery.

The rails themselves are the same as those for around the bath. They are generally available in white or chrome finishes, some with a smooth grip and others with an indented or textured surface. The latter can be of great benefit in wet environments.

It’s a good idea to enter the shower and use tape to mark exactly where a rails might be of most benefit, without it impeding your entry and exit to the cubicle. If you’re also using a shower stool, think about how this might work in tandem with a rail.

While the rails themselves will likely be made of non-corrosive aluminium or plastic, it’s important that whoever fits them also uses non-corrosive screws as fixings. Vertical rust stains from inappropriate screws are a common sight when this last

point is overlooked, so it’s worth mentioning to the installer.

In terms of aesthetics, modern rails are inconspicuous in design and most blend in well, particularly in mostly white bathrooms.

Alternative bathroom grab rails

Fitting rails to the walls is easily the most common choice, but if you have adequate space, you might consider a floor to ceiling support pole. The ‘Security Pole and Curve Grab Bar’ at essentialaids.com is an innovative piece of equipment which is usually fitted quite near to the toilet.

As the name suggests, it extends the full height of the room. It has the additional feature of a curve horizontal rail which protrudes from the vertical pole, providing support more centrally in the room. The curvature of the rail provides a number of different hand holds.

While some similar rails require permanent fixing, this particular one does not. Instead it has a tension mounting within its tubing, meaning it can be securely wedged into position and the mechanism tightened to exert pressure on the floor and ceiling, holding the pole in place.

While it’s most often used in bathrooms, these particular mobility aids are also suitable for the bedroom. The versatility of their positioning is making them an increasingly popular choice.

Bed rails

Support rails which fit to the bed help with the process of getting in and out of it, while they can also assist with the getting dressed and undressed. They may also be a useful aid in moving from a lying down position to sitting up in bed.

Many bed rails act like cot sides, offering a point of leverage for the user. Some models fold down out of the way as required, allowing easy access to the bed.

Other smaller models act in a similar way to the upside down U-shape of rail sometimes found in bathrooms fixed to the bathtub. These tend to be smaller, leaving plenty of room either side to access the bed.

Handrails for the stairs

Stairs are an obvious area of potential danger if you are unsteady on your feet and many people decide to fit rails as mobility aids. If it’s an enclosed corridor staircase, it’s possible to fit either a rail on one side or even on both if you feel it’s necessary.

More open staircases will have the bannister on one side, but people may also fit a rail on the wall for the length of the stairs too.

Additionally special rails are available for the newel posts at the foot and top of the stairs. These wind around the post, providing support for the last one or two steps as you descend. They are available in either left or right handed versions, depending on the side of the staircase the newel post is on.

Outside grab rails

Many front and back doors have small flights of steps leading up to them and fitting a rail next to these may make sense for some people.

Out in the elements 24/7, it’s important to choose one which is robust and non-corrosive. Usually dark colours are the most logical choice for this task.

Essential Aids supply the ‘Outdoor Grab Rail’ for exactly this purpose. It features a non-slip, ribbed holding surface so it offers grip even in the rain.

Source : https://essentialaids.tumblr.com/post/632121507992289280/things-you-should-know-about-grab-bars-and-handles

Six Must-have Aids for the Elderly in 2020

 Innovation and new ideas drive the world of rehabilitation and daily living aids. As we get older, new challenges arise connected to the physical tasks of everyday life. Luckily there is an ever-growing supply of aids for the elderly which may make a big difference - here we’ll rundown six of the best.

1. Wheeled Walking Aids

In cases where someone’s mobility has significantly deteriorated, wheeled devices which support the body may help. While many people are initially resistant to this type of equipment, it is growing in popularity and may have a dramatic and positive impact on daily life.

With the goal of continued independence, most people are open to the opportunities mobility aids like this may facilitate. A rollator, for example, which is essentially a robust walking frame with wheels, may help get around the home or assist someone get to and from the shops or on visits to friends or family.

Rollators are available with integral seats, shopping bags, baskets, brakes and a whole host of other features. Combined, these make them excellent pieces of kit for someone who might otherwise be housebound or reliant on others to get around outside.

The popularity of rollators in the UK was enhanced when the then nearly 100-year-old Captain Tom Moore used one for his inspirational 2020 campaign to raise funds for NHS charities.

Using his Drive X-Fold rollator, Captain Moore walked sponsored laps of his garden. With an original target of one hundred 25-metre laps, he aimed to raise £1000, but soon the global publicity meant he was able to aim much higher.

Quickly passing new landmarks of £5,000 and £20,000, he soon swept past the huge figure of £500,000. With more appearances on national TV, radio and extensive newspaper coverage, he eventually raised an astonishing total of over £30million.

This meant that Captain Moore, using his walking frame with wheels, had earned a record donation for a single campaign on the JustGiving website, dwarfing the previous mark of £5.2million. More than 1.5 million people contributed, which was another record.

2. Aids For Putting on Socks

The challenges of becoming older are not always things to which people give much consideration when they are young, physically fit and flexible. Not being able to touch your toes when you’re younger is not necessarily a problem, but as your body’s tendons shorten with age and flexibility at the waist becomes more restricted, it may become more difficult.

A practical problem which may arise in these circumstances, is difficulty in putting on socks and underwear. While many people adopt new techniques with their underwear, like swinging the garments over the feet one by one, socks and shoes may be harder to deal with.

The simple issue for many people is being able to stretch far enough to hook the sock or stocking over their toes in order to then pull them up over their feet. Without the reach or flexibility to do this, putting on socks can be a real problem.

Essential Aids devotes a whole category to innovative devices specifically designed to solve this issue.

What most of these aids have in common is that they require the sock or stocking to be manually ‘loaded’ into a device which then sits on the floor. The foot is then placed inside the device and then pulled up the ankle.

This means the user is not required to reach as far as their own toes or even the foot itself, in order to get the sock on.

Some of these aids have a wire framed construction, like the popular ‘Dorking Stocking Donner’. Others feature a ‘gutter’ into which the foot is slipped, and cord handles which enable the ‘pulling up’ process. One example of this type is the ‘Etac Socky, Short Stocking Aid’.

It is important to note that most of this type of equipment may take time to get used to. There is a new technique involved, but most people are able to master it in a relatively short period.

3. Walking Sticks

The ubiquitous walking stick is possibly the original aid for the elderly. It offers easy support when moving around, is convenient to store and available in lots of styles and materials.

Essential Aids supplies a wide range of conventional sticks, made from wood or lightweight aluminium. If a standard stick does not deliver the required stability, it may be worth considering one which has more than one leg.

Tripod and tetrapod walking sticks offer great support and have the advantage of standing up alone without needing to be leant against something. This is a feature which appeals to many elderly people who might have difficulty reaching down to the floor to pick up a fallen walking stick.

While these devices do come with an increase in weight, many models are available made from aluminium and these are dramatically lighter than old fashioned steel versions.

Tripod sticks tend to be marginally more maneuverable than the four-legged tetrapods are the most stable, but may also be heavier. Walking speeds may be slow when using this type of equipment and they can be awkward when trying to lift on and off of buses, for example.

The handle is an important part of any walking stick. If you’re using one a lot, it is worth considering one which spreads weight evenly across the palm.

Narrow handles may prove painful after a while, so wider handles which are ergonomically designed to match the hand’s contours are a valuable design enhancement and may make a significant impact on comfort.

4. Reaching Aids and Grabbers

One common complaint when one enters old age is a reduction in general flexibility. As touched on above, this can impact our ability to put on clothing, but also for picking things up from the floor or retrieving items from high shelves.

Reaching aids are useful if you find yourself in this situation, with most of the commonly found devices sharing a basic design. They comprise an aluminium shaft of up to 90cm in length, with a trigger at one end which controls ‘jaws’ at the other.

These devices are versatile and have many applications around the home. They are particularly useful for people who struggle to bend at the waist and who regularly need to pick things up from the floor. They also work very well as litter-pickers and are a familiar sight being used for that purpose.

Essential Aids supplies a wide range of reachers, many which fold in the middle, making them easy to store in handbags.

Some models have suction tips on the jaws, giving them extra purchase on flat sided objects. Some also have magnetic tips - great for collecting small metal objects.

5. Perching Stools

The ability to stand unaided at a sink or kitchen worktop is something many people take for granted before they reach later life. Whether it’s preparing food or brushing your teeth, there are various day-to-day tasks which require one to stand up for fairly prolonged periods.

If this becomes difficult, a perching stool is something to consider. These are tall stools which have a slightly tilted sitting surface, rather than a flat one. The idea here is to keep one’s feet flat on the floor, while ‘perching’ on the leading edge of the stool’s seat.

This provides the user with adequate support to ‘semi-stand’ and keep both hands free to conduct the necessary task. This makes food preparation, washing up and a whole host of other jobs much easier to undertake.

Perching stools have an advantage over simple tall stools in that the user doesn’t have to climb up to sit one, or down again afterwards. For elderly people, this is a significant advantage.

Essential Aids’ extensive range of perching stools features units with backs and arms and all are easily height adjustable.

6. Kitchen Equipment

Many people suffer with arthritis later in life and often this particularly affects the hands and fingers. This in turn may make it uncomfortable or painful to use standard knives and forks, as well as items like tin openers.

Essential Aids’ kitchen range features hundreds of ingenious products which aim to reduce this type of discomfort.

Simply using knives and forks with larger than standard grips makes a big difference for some people. These come as either purposely design cutlery, or as oversize grips which fit around standard knives and forks.

Larger handles are usually less painful on fingers and are easier to control.

Automatic tin openers and bottle openers are other examples of kitchen tools which take the physical strain out of the tasks at hand. Essential Aids supplies a wide range of these too.

Another innovation is the use of L-shaped bread-knives and graters. Rather than the standard ‘straight’ blade style, these have a handle which is nearly at a right angle to the blade. This keeps the wrist in a neutral position, making it easier to control and requires less strain on the wrist and forearm.

A similar design is deployed in some garden tools for the elderly.

Source : https://essentialaids.tumblr.com/post/632114528201605120/six-must-have-aids-for-the-elderly-in-2020

Choosing Between Walking Sticks And Elbow Crutches

Mobility aids like a wheelchair, canes, crutches, grab rails, stairlifts, etc. help make the everyday life of people dealing with mobility impairment comfortable by improving their mobility. These aids also prove beneficial in case of an injured foot or leg.

While purchasing mobility aids, people usually face a dilemma to choose between two popular mobility aids - walking sticks and elbow crutches. This is because they are not sure which aid would fit their purpose better.

The condition and intensity of impairment differs in individuals. So, if you are unsure about the requirements, consulting a medical professional to get the best possible guidance on selection of aids and strength exercises is highly recommendable.

Read on to know a few general points to consider when choosing between these two aids.

Walking Stick

A simple idea that there is something that helps you walk without somebody's support helps boost your confidence and create a significant difference in your approach towards your impairment.

Walking sticks work well for unsteady yet independent walkers because they provide balance. A stick assists you while walking on uneven grounds or in a crowded place like a shopping mall.

To know whether to use a stick or not in your case, knowing where it is advisable to use it is improtant. Out of a number of uses of a stick, its primary use is to make you steady on your feet and ease pain by providing basic mobility and balance.

It is a good option for people who suffer from chronic conditions like arthritis as it relieves joint pressure and pain. This aid may also help you walk up and down the stairs. Thanks to its lightweight variants available that are so handy that you can keep them in your bag, there are no major storage or transportation issues faced.

However, in some situations, using a stick can prove to be risky. For instance, if you are suffering from an injury that requires you to avoid pressure or weight on the foot or leg, you should avoid using a stick.

It is necessary to use a cane in a correct way to get the best out of it and get good results. To use a stick effectively, you need to follow the procedure as below.

Hold your cane in the opposite hand from your injury in a way that the cane touches the ground when the injured side steps forward. For example, if you have an injury on your right leg, hold the stick in your left hand and bring it down when you place your injured right leg on the ground.

Elbow Crutches

As compared to a walking cane, an elbow crutch offers more support. It could, however, be taxing for your upper body as it receives the entire weight of your injured leg/foot.

It is beneficial as it:

• Prevents axillary nerve from damaging.
• Helps keep your posture correct.
• It provides you stability and comfort.
• Makes the ascending and descending of stairs easy
• Provides a neutral or natural position of the hand and wrist
• Helps improve your walking speed over time

If you need to keep the weight off an injured leg or foot, a crutch can be a better option. Make sure that you adjust crutches properly as improperly adjusted crutches can cause pain and damage the nerves further.

Final Takeaway

What to choose between a walking stick or an elbow crutches? The answer to this question depends on the requirements you want the mobility aid to fulfill. While a stick is to assist balance, crutches help keep the weight off your leg or foot. Choosing the right mobility aid can go a long way towards improving your mobility and quality of your life as well.

Source : 

https://essentialaids.tumblr.com/post/632007505580539904/choosing-between-walking-sticks-and-elbow-crutches

Leg Rest - How It Can Benefit Your Health

Mobility aids can be beneficial for people who are unable to walk and move all by themselves. Several mobility aids like a wheelchair, a walking stick, crutches, toilet aids, etc. don't only provide extra support and reduce pain but also help elders or people with mobility issues to retain their independence.

A versatile range of mobility and comfort devices is available in the market to meet people's expectations. A leg rest is a popular aid among them. By allowing the legs to stay elevated, it helps reduce discomfort typically for older adults or someone who has an illness or impairment. Physicians, for years, have been recommending leg elevation. It is a simple method that helps treat swelling and other health problems majorly in legs and veins.

Read on to know a few health benefits that you can enjoy by using this aid.

Enhanced Blood Circulation

Poor blood circulation can increase fatigue and health complications. By elevating your legs, the flow of blood becomes easier and this will help enhance your health. Secondly, in those who are suffering from mobility ailments, lack of proper physical activity as compared to others can cause blood clot or varicose veins to develop. Keeping feet elevated can help reduce the risk of developing these circulatory conditions.

Reduced Back Problems

Sitting on a wheelchair or a simple chair for extended periods puts a strain on your spine. This can lead to back problems - especially in your lower back. A possible solution to avoid this is a rest. It enables you to sit straight in a chair without slouching thus reducing the pressure on your spine and lower back. This will not just make you feel comfortable but also reduce the risk of a back strain or injury.

Improved Posture

Slouching has a direct impact on your posture. A bad posture not only causes back pain but also leads to decline in productivity. People with mobility issues already suffer from pain and injury. Improper posture can add to further complications in pre-existing back and leg problems.

Sitting with elevated legs can lead to a dramatic improvement. This, by supporting the calf, takes the pressure off the thigh and keeps legs straight to increase comfort for long periods of sitting.

Reduced Swelling and Inflammation

If your leg is swollen and you raise it higher than your heart, the fluid in your leg will move towards your heart due to the force of gravity. Therefore, elevation is a good practice to reduce swelling. This aid can help reduce inflammation that occurs due to swelling. The more the swelling, the longer you need to elevate your legs. Reduced swelling will, in turn, keep your veins healthy.

Apart from these primary health benefits, this equipment has several other advantages as follows:

• It is a good option for short-heighted people who might not keep their feet flat on the ground while sitting on a chair. The tool also takes care that the weight is properly distributed.
  
  
• As this aid is easily transportable between rooms, you can move your rest to wherever you are sitting. It also does not require a long process of installation.
  
  
• These rests are extremely comfortable if you have long hours to spend at the desk.
  
  
• You can also use this rest while working on an adjustable desk.

Final Words

A leg rest has emerged as a popular aid among a number of comfort and mobility aids over the last couple of years. It significantly reduces pain and provides comfort. However, getting your condition assessed thoroughly by a professional physiotherapist is highly recommendable before you buy this aid or feel changes like sudden pain in calf, knees, lower back, or any other like that.

Source : 

https://essentialaids.tumblr.com/post/631309718327083008/leg-rest-how-it-can-benefit-your-health