3 Types of Disability Aids for Elderly

As a person grows older, it can get challenging to move around or perform certain tasks with limited mobility. Disability aids are the devices carved out to aid the people facing challenges in doing typical activities. These devices offer myriad benefits to the users, together with reduced pain, increased confidence, and self-esteem.

A range of such devices is available to meet individual needs - from walkers and wheelchairs to canes and crutches. Let's have a look.

Types of Disability Aids

1. Walkers

Walkers come with a metal framework and four legs that offer stability and support to the user. Some walkers also have wheels on the base for easy movability, so they can just slide it rather than lifting it. This is very useful for someone who finds it challenging to move around for any reason, like an accident or age.

Common Walkers Include:

• Rollators

Rollators come with the four-wheeled frame, handlebars, and a seat to rest if needed. A rollator is an excellent choice if the user requires additional support or a place to sit while walking. Some rollators consist of brakes for safety.

• Knee Walkers

Such devices offer the user a padded seat to rest their knees while moving forward with their sturdy legs.

• Standard Walkers

Standard walkers, framed for those people (generally elder) who require additional support while walking.

2. Wheelchairs

Wheelchairs are mostly used by people who cannot walk or don't have to put their weight on limbs. Such aid is better than the walker when the person has a greater distance to travel.

Such chairs can be manually propelled or by someone else. On the other hand, electric wheelchairs are powered and driven by batteries, which are comparatively more expensive than normal ones.

There are around 1.2 million people using wheelchairs in the UK, and the number is still increasing. This indicates the wheelchair is offering them the optimum support which they require.

3. Safety Equipment

With the advancement of technology, modern equipment is making a comfortable environment for the elders in their houses than ever before. Let's have a look at some of the equipment to ensure the safety of seniors.

• Ramps

Ramps are designed for those people who use wheelchairs or some kind of walking aid. The ramp offers a stable and flat surface to walk through the stairs or access the home or building.

• Panic Alarm

The panic alarm system is the absolute solution for the elders to summon help in emergencies

Such alarms are easy to use, and let them get help with just the push of a button. There are multiple panic alarms known by different names like panic buttons, panic button alarms, but they all come with the same goal of alerting people and getting their attention.

• Handrails

Specially designed handrails that fit into any room or at the entrance to offer additional support. Other items like handrails involve bathroom handrails to prevent the slippery fall and grab bars.

4. Canes

Canes are assistive devices that offer stability and help in improving posture. It is generally prescribed for those who require minimal support. It is also known as a walking stick assembled from wood or lightweight aluminum. Some canes come up with the adjustable or foldable feature for convenience.

Canes are also light in weight compared to crutches, making it effortless to use them for the elders.

5. Crutches

Crutches are a kind of disability aid that offers increased base support to the individual. It shifts the weight from the legs to the upper body and is commonly used by people who can't use their legs.

Some Common Types of Crutches

• Axillary/Underarm crutches: Typically used by people suffering from short-term injuries are generally designed to place the crutches under the armpits against the ribcage.
  
  
• Forearm Crutches: Such crutches let people place their arm on the metal or plastic cuff and are commonly used by people with long term disabilities.

In Conclusion

Anyone who requires mobility aids can benefit from the disability aids device or equipment either for the short term or long term. The users report that such assistance helps them reduce pain and get greater engagement in daily activities.

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Choosing the Right Bathing Equipments

 We do not understand the meaning of the right bathroom equipment unless an unsuitable aid or expensive mistakes put us at some kind of risk. We usually think bathroom accessories such as bath boards, shower stools, or a simple soap dish do not need much of our time and attention. In that process, we sometimes forget some accessories elders may require.

The right equipment not only adds charm to the bathroom but also sees to all the needs. Choosing one is not an arduous task. With some skills, expertise, and inside tricks, you can choose a whole set of the right bathroom accessories.

Below we have mentioned a few tips for you to choose the right accessories.

1. Budget

It is an essential factor in determining bathroom accessories. If you are on a shoestring budget, you can go for low-cost accessories that would have one or two advantages. Alternatively, you can go for branded accessories that are sure to provide you with better durability, functionality, and quality. The type of accessories depends on the funds you keep aside for the bathroom. If you have a reasonable budget, you can go for quality or else choose a cost-effective option.

2. Size and Shape

The layout of your bathroom determines its spaciousness. There might be equipment like shower stools or walk-in tubs that can take up a lot of space. So make sure to measure your bathroom footage for better installation.

Also, check that you do not equip your bathroom with unnecessary equipment. It may fill up the space causing you problems.

Cool Tip: Cabinets and Drawers can help you save a substantial amount of space.

3. Quality

Choosing quality products would be best, especially if it is for the elderly. They usually need durable accessories. If you install the fixtures or accessories of low quality, you may have to replace them often. Like a plastic bath board with a handle, the right quality accessories ensure that you do not feel sorry later.

While choosing the quality equipment, make sure to read about different brands, their reviews, functional specifications, etc.

4. Functionality

Take into consideration the preference of the user. If the bathroom is for the elderly, you may have to determine which features are essential. A simple bath board or one with a handle, grab rails, shower stools, or chairs, whether the equipment needs to be foldable or not. Along with it, you need to consider the age bracket. For example, a kid would need easy-to-use accessories, whereas adults are more likely to prefer sophisticated equipment.

While planning to equip the bathroom with equipment like bath boards and shower stools, consult a doctor or an occupational therapist. They would help you determine what features are best for your elderly family member.

5. Installation Requirements

Some fixtures require little to no installation procedure. Other equipment might require the help of a professional or an experienced technician. Some equipment companies provide installation as a free service, while others may ask you to arrange it yourself or charge an installation fee. Learn about the installation and maintenance procedures before taking a final step.

All these are the general tips to choose the right equipment for your bathroom. They may vary from person to person. For instance, if the tips are to look for bathroom equipment, it may include a suggestion for types of bath fixtures. If it were for a younger family, the bathroom suggestion would be to look at the floor, theme, etc.

The Bottom Line

If you choose the right equipment, you are set and shall be free. If you do not, you may end up replacing them sooner than later. So, before you make a decision, weigh the facts. Check the product, installation requirements, warranties, and other simulations. Do not forget to check the customer reviews while purchasing bathroom aids.

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How to Choose The Right Wheelchair Ramp

 For wheelchair users, the primary need is to be as independent as possible. Wheelchairs and rollators also allow them to do so while undertaking regular activity without any support.

The only trouble-causing things are steps, curbs, stairs, and uneven surfaces which can hamper movement and impact safety.

A wheelchair ramp (inclined plane/Slope) is a great solution to overcome such issues.

But there is a wide range of inclined planes available to satisfy the needs of various users. If you are struggling to find the right one, then you are in the right place. Below we are going to take you through the ramps based on the particular needs and types.

Where do you need to use the ramp?

Most of the inclined planes are capable of providing support indoors and outdoors, so the location is more about the environment and surfaces.

Threshold: If you want the ramp at a doorway or a bit raised then the threshold ramp must be the right choice for you.

Vehicle: If you need easy transportation from the wheelchair, you can use the inclined plane that folds half or quarterly. As such equipment tends to fit in most vehicles.

For raised landing: For a raised landing the finest solution must be a 36-inch wide ramp for comfortable entry and exit of your home.

For a few steps: If you require the inclined plane for a few steps leading into your home or in your house, the single-fold ramp that you can carry like a suitcase also known as suitcase ramps are suitable.

Types of Wheelchair ramps

Inclined plane for Wheelchair comes in different styles to support the multiple needs and types of environments. Below are some of the common.

Threshold Ramps

This aid let the wheelchair user to safely go through the low rises door frames or other types of small thresholds that are usually faced in the house.

They generally come up in the height range from ½ inch up to 6 inches to meet the multiple types of thresholds and have a weight capacity of 600 lbs.

Suitcase Ramps

Suitcase ramps on the other hand, are more suitable for passage over larger thresholds like a set of stairs or to get in or out of vehicles such as an SUV.

They are foldable and lightweight, which makes them more convenient to use, carry, and store. These incline planes come up with a higher weight capacity of up to 800 lbs and the length can vary from 2 feet up to 12 feet.

Track Ramps

This aid comes in the length up to 12 feet and most of them can carry up to 600 lbs maximum. The design of the aid is such that one can access the curbs, and steps easily.

The biggest issue people find with this aid is the setup. They must be at the same distance as the width of the wheelchair parallelly.

Modular Ramps

This equipment is suitable for the higher thresholds for e.g., where there are a lot of stairs. The only drawback of them is they are not portable like other inclined planes and are heavy to move.

How much width do you require for the ramp?

The width of the wheelchair slope depends upon the size of the wheelchair and the additional room you need to travel on the slope.

Generally, the minimum width of 36 inches is enough, but one can go for more than that if it is comfortable for you.

What material is best for the ramp?

The inclined planes come in various styles as discussed above. Consider the below points to figure out the material for them:

Aluminum

Aluminum slopes are strong, durable, and lightweight. There are often aluminium ramps for sale due to its qualities and more demand.

They can withstand harsh winters and are perfect for temporary and permanent installations.

Rubber

The rubber ramps are perfect for navigating on uneven household surfaces like small steps and doorway thresholds. They are safe and offer a non-skid surface.

Wood

Such aid require maintenance and you must prevent it from warping. Though they are visually appealing but come with several drawbacks.

Weight capacity of the ramp

While choosing the right inclined plane, it is to find the one which is safe and supports the weight of the user. Most of the inclined planes have the capacity to accommodate 300 to 600 pounds and is a preferable capacity.

Conclusion

Choosing the wheelchair ramp is hardly a straightforward process. You have to combine the weight capacity, material type, width, and for what purpose you need it.

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Mobility Aids for EveryDay Life

Technology and gadgets have made life inclusive and interactive for wheelchair users. The modern tools and mobility aidslike crutches, over bed tables, and laws like ADA compliance ensure that everyone can have a more promising life.

However, the type of aids depends on the recovery model. You can choose a mobility aid for a short period of recovery or long-term recovery. For example, traditional aids like crutches, over bed tables, or walking sticks can provide short-term relief. A screen reader can provide long-term support. Let's dig in more.

Why should you choose mobility aids?

Mobility aids are a great fit to increase stability and balance. They help to even out walking patterns. Besides, it maintains walking posture, increases confidence, and reduces muscle tension by redistributing the weight. 

Types of Mobility Aids

1. Walking Sticks

Individuals with reduced balance prefer using walking sticks, support sticks, or canes. The sticks are available in different materials such as wood and metal. Some sticks can fold when not in use. A few walking sticks can even convert into a chair that provides a place to sit and rest. Mostly, old age people use this aid. 

2. Tetrapods and Tripods

These are quite similar to walking sticks, except they have three points at their base for better stability. The points ensure that they provide extra balance and more safety than walking sticks. Generally, you manufacture tripods from metals like aluminum or steel. 

3. Crutches

Crutches aid the user in walking while relieving the pressure on one foot or leg. They generally come up in pairs. Experts say that you should use crutches only when a doctor or other healthcare professional recommends them.

4. Walker and Walking Frames

People who have less strength in their limbs prefer walkers. They can be wheeled and non-wheeled. Nowadays, walkers even tend to have baskets, bags, or trays for convenience. Recovering patients in hospitals and nursing homes prefer non-wheeled walkers.

5. Bathroom Aids 

Bathroom equipment such as shower boards and bath boards give users the independence of accessing the bathroom to assist mobility aid. Options such as a grab rail, shower stool/chair make it easier to wash and clean. Try to include all the mobility aid in the bathroom as possible.

6. Bariatric Aids

These aids are for users with maximum weight. Heavy-duty rolling walker, permanent crutch kind of mobility aids can assist without worrying about health.

7. Sensory Aids

Users with hearing, speech, or communication problems can benefit from sensory aids. With assistive technology, users can interact with others more easily.

Sensory aids include communication aids and visual supports. 

• Communication Aids

These aids usually comprise a library of messages with letters, words, symbols, or photographs. It focuses on improvising the expressive language of the user.

• Visual Supports

A few people may have difficulty understanding and remembering the events and other types of information. Visual supports such as photographs, drawings, pictures, written records, or lists can help them understand and foster communication. It is useful for people with learning difficulties. 

8. Visual Aids

These aids allow visually impaired people to access computers and other digital devices. For example, screen readers. It allows users to access computers with voice. The system reads out every content on the screen. In fact, many visual aid devices have now come up in the market. For example, artificial wearing devices, smart canes, visual interpreters, and more. 

When it comes to computer assisting aids, technology has widely advanced. Augmented systems, adapted keyboards with voice recognition and dictation have come up. They ensure that students participate fully in education.

The Future Insight

The traditional and technological advancements in disability aid help to overcome the daily life challenges. The elderly and disabled can now live a better life. However, with advancement further, you can be sure that life would be much simpler ahead.

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Waterproof Cast Cover - An Effective Way To Safeguard Your Cast

The cast is an important element in the recovery process of bone-related injuries. It keeps the broken bone in place, prevents muscle contraction, and immobilizes the joint area. It is a challenging task for people who have a fracture or wound to protect it from elements that can cause damage. There are some DIY methods like plastic bags and plastic wraps to safeguard your plaster. However, these options are the least effective. So, it is crucial to invest in something that provides an effective result. And nothing better than mobility aids like waterproof protectors. Continue reading this article to know how a waterproof cast cover can prevent damage and enhance the healing process.

Water- A Major Threat

There are two types of casts: Traditional ones made of plaster and second one is made from fiberglass. So, if you are using a traditional one, there are high chances of getting wet. Plaster quickly melts when it meets water, and this loosens it, which could cause further damage. On the other hand, fiberglass casts are water-resistant. But sometimes, the padding inside can soak up moisture, which could lead to mildew growth, resulting in infection. Therefore, it's good to avoid moisture and prevent any danger. In such a case, getting a waterproof protector for your splint is helpful. It will allow you to bathe, shower, and even swim without worrying.

Waterproof Cast Cover

Covers are important mobility aids that work as a shield to protect your cast. These covers completely cover the prop with a watertight seal. They seem like a long plastic sleeve that you can slide over an arm or leg. They help protect the wound or injury from water and avoid several health implications from skin irritation to a major infection. In most cases, patients use a cast cover for swimming or bathing. But you can even use it in other conditions like skin abrasions, poison ivy, burns, stitches, etc.

There are two types of waterproof protectors:

Waterproof Arm Cover: Arm cover, also known as arm sleeve, is an ideal tool for anyone who has a splint, bandage or other props on their hand, wrist, or elbow.

Waterproof Leg Cover: Leg cover is beneficial for people who have injuries related to the foot, ankle, or knees.

Benefits of Using Waterproof Cast Protectors

• Waterproof protectors come in sterile and sealed plastic bags. This prevents water from entering and keeps the dressing dry.
  
  
• For people who love swimming, it could be difficult to temporarily give up their hobbies because of a cast. With waterproof covers, they can actively swim, submerge, or paddle with the fear of damaging the prop.
  
  
• Waterproof covers protect it from any debris or dirt. Due to this, despite an injury, a person can continue with outdoor activities, work in rain or mud, or go to crowded events.
  
  
• These covers are extremely durable. So, the user can carry out any regular activity without causing any damage.
  
  
• As a waterproof protector enables quick-drying, micro-organisms do not gather near the cast, reducing the chances of stench.
  
  
• Sometimes, those who have a wound avoid taking a bath for a long time. An unclean body is home to several other infections and diseases. With a waterproof cover, the person can shower and bathe as many times as he wants.
  
  

Tips to Choose the Best Cover

• Check the size of the cover. It should protect most sized bandages and burns.
  
  
• Light-weight to provide stability during showering.
  
  
• Includes elastic rubber steel to prevent water from entering.
  
  
• Check if the protector is reusable, light-weight, and leakproof.
  
  

Final Note

Protecting your cast from water and other elements like dirt is necessary. A waterproof cast protector will prevent it from getting wet and reduce the chances of infections. All of this put together, these mobility aids will allow the patent to be comfortable and carry out normal activities without the fear of damaging it.

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Managing Incontinence for A Comfortable Living

Incontinence is an involuntary loss of urine or bowel motion. While some people think that incontinence is a sensitive issue; however, it is a widespread problem. It is necessary to control this condition because the severity can vary from a small leak to a complete loss of bladder control. If you suffer from poor bladder and bowel control symptoms, bed protectors are a practical way of protecting your mattresses, making your life simple, and increasing confidence. This article covers two essential products that will help manage your incontinence.

Causes of Incontinence

While there are plenty of reasons for this condition but the leading causes are:

• Aging
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Parkinson's Disease
• Strokes
• Spinal Injuries
• Diabetes
• Arthritis
• Asthma

Bed Pads

Incontinence bed pads are absorbent pads that protect the mattress from involuntary bowel motion. You can place the pads below or above the liner as per your choice. They will absorb the liquid and protect your furniture and mattress from further damage. But most importantly, they provide comfort and a good night's sleep. They offer higher levels of absorbency and are hygienic as you can throw them away after one use. Following are some benefits of bed pads:

• They help protect the floor under the portable commode or bedside toilet.
• You can use these pads for a wheelchair, couch, chair, etc.
• A disposable underpad prevents the car seat from stains.

Three Types of Pads

Classic Pads: Classic Rectangular Pads come with pouch pants that have a waterproof backing. The stay-dry fabric between the pad and skin ensures that the urine goes into the pad and not elsewhere.

Insert Pads: They do not have a waterproof backing and, therefore, suitable for light to moderate urinary incontinence. You can use these pads with pull-up pants.

Shaped Pads: These pads fit the body, thus reducing the risk of any leakage. With a waterproof backing and dry stay layer, these pads fall into two categories: small and large.

Things to Look for in UnderPads

• Check if the pad doesn't move to ensure there is no urine leak.
  
  
• In most cases, you will use the pad throughout the night. Which means you need an underpad that provides high absorbency.
  
  
• Ensure that the underpad you are buying provides comfort and doesn't cause skin irritation.

Incontinence Pants for Men

These pants are suitable for those who are fully mobile and independent. Secondly, these pants are ideal for individuals with light or moderate incontinence. So, if you are somebody with stress incontinence, you would want to prefer buying these. They look and feel like any regular underwear, and therefore, they are easy to put on and remove. The types of incontinence pants for men are:

Y-Front: Traditional Y-front opening, which extends across the front for full coverage and security.

Boxer Style: They come in a masculine boxer style design with an elasticated waistband. They are comfortable and long-lasting.

Benefits of Incontinence Pants

• Gives a sense of flexibility and freedom
• Option for both washable and disposable pants
• A comfortable and elasticated waist
• Suitable for those with an active lifestyle
• Different sizes to choose from

Things to Look for in Incontinence Pants

The right pant depends on the severity of the condition, your preferences, and skin type. However, before purchasing a pant, consider the absorbency level and ensure that it fits you perfectly.

Conclusion

Unmanaged incontinence can lead to feelings of stress and embarrassment. Sometimes, older adults deny leaving the house because of the fear of an unwanted accident. This can affect their lifestyle and confidence. Managing incontinence by using products like disposable pads, incontinence pants for men, etc. will help overcome this challenge.

It is better to consult a doctor before choosing the right product. They will guide you to choose what suits best based on the severity of incontinence.

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Managing Mobility With Wheelchair Ramps

 Mobility limitation is a common functional incapacity faced by many people. For them, being able to enter or exit buildings or get in and out of vehicles is a matter of everyday efficiency and independence. That's why accessibility equipment companies design wheelchair ramps to ensure better access to buildings and transportation. They are available in aluminum, steel, wood, rubber, and more. Let's talk about two solutions - folding ramps and rubber threshold ramps to manage and improve mobility.

Advantages of Wheelchair Ramp

• Freedom of movement is the biggest problem that people with physical impairments face. The most significant advantage of using the aid is it promotes independent living.
• They are useful both at home and in public places. Elders and people with limited mobility, like others, can freely visit theatres, malls, offices, etc.
  
  
• A wheelchair user can access the bathroom easily. Thus, it promotes both bathroom safety and independence.
  
  
• You can use them for other tasks too. For example, transporting furniture, groceries, etc. into the house.
  
  
• It reduces the risk of injury while stepping out of the house when in a wheelchair.
  

Folding Ramp

These versatile ramps are widely popular everywhere to improve accessibility. They are easy to install, and you can use them dynamically to transport a wheelchair to home, office, mall, church, park, car, hotels, you name it all! These fold up just like a suitcase to provide easy storage and transport. They are suitable for heavier wheelchairs.

Fibreglass Folding Channel Wheelchair Ramps- Best suited for four-wheeled mobility scooters and wheelchairs. They fold in the middle, which makes them easy to store. As compared to metal, fiberglass ones are safe because of their smooth corners and edges.

Folding Channel Ramp- These are available in 7 feet height, are durable, lightweight, and easy to store. The low side walls make them compatible with most mobility devices.

Folding Suitcase Wheelchair Ramp- You can fold them in half just like a suitcase, and the handle makes carrying them simple. A raised edge prevents accidents. You can use them with mobility scooters, electric, and manual wheelchairs.

Folding ones are the best choice for frequent travelers as they are light and easy to transport. If you are considering buying a folding one, keep these things in mind: the size you require, how you will use it, and check the weight, durability, and safety features before buying.

Rubber Threshold Ramp

For those who use power chairs, these are a practical and affordable accessibility solution. Long-lasting, slip-resistant recycled rubber makes it safe to navigate uneven surfaces. You can easily cut the rubber to provide an exact fit for doorstops. The rubber construction makes it capable of supporting very large loads-1000kg (2204 lb. or 157 stone). The only disadvantage is that these are heavy. However, they have an infinite weight capacity and can stay in a place. Here are some benefits and features of rubber threshold ramps.

• Perfect for both outdoor and indoor use and residential or commercial purposes
• Available in different sizes and thickness
• An eco-friendly alternative to aluminum
• Slip-resistant, which ensures the safety
• You can have a custom fit
• Weatherproof and durable
• Easy to maintain

What to Keep in Mind Before You Buy a Ramp?

Ramps need to meet the guidelines set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). ADC recommends using them with the least possible slope. Ensure that what you are purchasing is compliant with the ADC regulations. Secondly, consider the size, style, ease, and use of transport before purchasing.

Final Thoughts

There are several benefits of installing a ramp both inside and outside the house. Moreover, they provide independence and improve the lifestyle of people with mobility restrictions. So, if you are thinking that your loved ones might need some assistance, investing in this aid is a great choice!

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Improving Kitchen Safety With Kettle Trippers

 Arthritis and other rheumatic conditions are one of the most common causes of physical impairment among elderly adults. Physical restrictions make daily activities like bathing, walking, working in the kitchen, etc. extremely inconvenient for elders. With disability aids, they can carry out these tasks without the risk of falling or causing more pain in joints or muscles.

There are aids like a wheelchair to assist people with limited mobility, there are tools available to help older adults make their time in the kitchen a little less difficult. One such disability aid commonly used in kitchens is a kettle tipper. Let's discuss more about kettles for disabled.

Importance of Kitchen Aids

For people with dexterity issues, carrying out kitchen tasks is difficult. For them, kitchen aids can be of great relief and make a major difference in improving kitchen work. There are two reasons why having kitchen aids are imperative: (a) they are important to maintain a safe environment while working with dangerous things like knives, and gas stove and (b) by providing assistance, they increase the feeling of self-sufficiency and independence among elders and people with limited mobility.

Kettles For Disabled

We use a teapot almost every day. But it is one of the heaviest appliances in the kitchen. Older adults can use it conveniently without causing much strain on palm, fingers, and joints. Such disability aids are highly beneficial for people with health conditions like fibromyalgia or arthritis.

The main aim of this aid is to enable any person who has a weak grip to use the teapot without lifting it. It even reduces the chances of burning oneself in the process of lifting.

Types of Kettle Tippers

Cordless Kettle Tipper- this comes with a metal base and a Velcro strap that enhances safety. The cut out at the front ensures a smooth pouring. You will also find an electric cordless teapot that has an automatic cut-out switch, is lightweight, and you can use it when traveling with an automatic cut-out switch. It is lightweight, so you can use it when traveling.

Wire Frame Tripper - a valuable aid with a loop strap and base clamps that hold the kettle. It has an integral hinge design, which makes the pouring process secure.

Jug Kettle Tipper - has a strong wireframe that allows you to place the kettle in a safe cradle. This tipper can fit most standards sized jug kettles and is very easy to use.

Universal Tipper - it is made of plastic that is heat resistant. The rubber base prevents sliding on the kitchen surface. The kettle comes with a lever that requires gentle pressure to guide it back to its place.

Uccello Kettle - this circular shaped kettle comes with a rotating cradle. Because of the ergonomic design, the handle's weight gets distributed across the palm of the user. This reduces the strain and makes it easy to hold.

3 Major Reasons to Buy a Kettle Tripper

Safety: Tippers are lightweight. So, they make the pouring process easier and safer for people with limited mobility.

Independence: Elderly people can maintain their independence and continue making tea/coffee whenever they want without others' help.

Convenience: Some trippers require the help of just one hand. So, this is very simple for those who have strength issues.

Conclusion

Dexterity and strength restrictions can create a major obstruction in kitchen independence. Older adults or people with limited mobility constantly need support in basic activities like eating which can hamper their confidence. Kettles for disabled can prove highly effective in retaining independence by allowing users to carry out a basic job like pouring tea. If you have older adults or someone with physical impairment at home, purchasing a tripper is a smart and safe choice. It will serve as an invaluable kitched aid.

Source : https://essentialaids.tumblr.com/post/636821439918587904/improving-kitchen-safety-with-kettle-trippers 

Essential Kitchen Aids For an Independent Living

 Conditions like arthritis, dementia, low vision, lack of strength, etc. can make routine tasks difficult for elders and people with limited mobility. Especially cooking or eating-related functions as they require hand and finger dexterity. Several kitchen aids help people with physical impairment perform everyday tasks like eating.

Let's discuss two essential tools for the kitchen - Wooden kitchen trolleys and lap trays for eating.

Continue reading!

Wooden Kitchen Trolley

A kitchen trolley, also known as a home trolley, is a lightweight wheeled trolley that helps you transport food and drinks around the house. A kitchen trolley is a savior for someone who finds it difficult to carry food due to limited mobility or old age. It will help them remain independent by making it easier to carry food. It will also significantly reduce the number of kitchen runs a person makes to get something. This, in turn, will lessen falls and decrease fatigue.

Note that these trolleys do not have brakes, so it is advisable not to use them as a walking aid. The trolley can be suitable for the following conditions: (a) the thresholds between one room and the other are of the same level (b) the user is not using a walking frame or a rollator (c) the user is unable to carry heavy objects and move around.

Kitchen trays are available in various materials like plastic, stainless steel, iron, polypropylene, and wood. Among these, a wooden kitchen trolley is an addition to your house. The chair consists of smooth hard-wood, which is durable, easy to carry, and easy to clean. The four legs with rolling casters enable smooth maneuvering. The push bar set provides additional support and balance while moving.

Lap Trays for Eating

For people with a temporary shoulder or neck pain or limited mobility, lap trays are a comfortable way of eating. Just like a kitchen trolley, a lap tray helps in transporting food. There are different types of lap trays available. For instance,

Freehand Tray- It comes with a non-slip mat, which prevents the items from slipping. It has integral handles at each end that make it a general-purpose carrying tray.

One Hand Tray- It is handy for those who make use of one hand. The surface of the tray is non-slippery, and it consists of a foldable and durable handle.

Stay Tray- it's a comfortable solution for people using an armchair. It has a molded bag underside that provides a stable base. The curved edges simplify carrying and positioning.

Adjustable Tray- Great option for using to eat in bed. This tray is lightweight, easy to lift, and you can tilt the tabletop to a 45-degree angle and lock in place.

Here are some tips for choosing the right tray:

Compact and Portable: A functional tray is the one that is sturdy to hold several items, and you can easily carry it. A good tray offers you the convenience to fold it into its compact shape and slide it under any place when not in use. If you have limited space, a portable and compact tray will best suit your needs.

Durable: Before purchasing a tray, ensure that it provides durability. A durable tray will be strong enough to support the weight of any glass or plate so that you can enjoy it without the fear of the plate tipping over.

Adaptable: You surely want a tray that is adaptable to any room and any situation you need- whether you wish to have dinner in bed or use that tray to place a laptop.

Conclusion

Kitchen trolleys and lap trays for eating are must-have aids in your house if you find it difficult to transport food and drinks from the kitchen to the dining table. With the help of these products, seniors and people with physical restrictions can stay independent and safe.

Source : https://essentialaids.tumblr.com/post/636458323459309569/essential-kitchen-aids-for-an-independent-living