Explore how assistive devices can help seniors restore their confidence and independence
As we age, tasks and activities that we used to be able to complete independently with ease can become increasingly difficult. Luckily, there are assistive devices designed to help seniors and older adults easily complete these tasks to help restore confidence and independence.
Continue reading to learn more about the different assistive devices available and how to choose the right one.
What are assistive devices?
Assistive devices refer to a wide variety of tools or devices designed to help seniors complete everyday tasks, such as buttoning their shirt or getting up from a chair.
Many seniors feel ashamed or embarrassed when they begin to have difficulty completing daily living activities, and these devices can help restore confidence and improve their self-esteem.
Assistive devices can be very beneficial to seniors whether they are aging at home or an assisted living facility.
What are the most common assistive devices?
There are many different assistive devices that are available for seniors to choose from. Depending on your seniors’ needs, you may decide to use multiple assistive devices to help them as much as possible.
- Activator Poles. Activator poles help to increase balance and mobility and provide seniors an alternative to canes and walkers. The dual poles offer more stability and are designed for individuals living with chronic pain conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS) and Parkinson’s disease. They are also a great option for people who are recovering from hip or knee surgery.
- Chair lift. A chair lift can help seniors get up from chairs and sofas safely by manually lifting them up. This tool can help seniors with arthritis or other joint pain. Chair lifts feature comfortable memory foam cushions that are lightweight and portable.
- Button hook. 49.6% of adults over the age of 65 have been diagnosed with arthritis, which can make everyday activities, such as buttoning your shirt difficult. [1] Button hooks are an easy-to-use tool that can help seniors button their shirts on their own.
- Handrails. Handrails can make getting out of bed and the bathtub easier for seniors. Grab bars installed in the bathroom can help seniors enter and exit showers and tubs safely. You can also purchase handrails that go between the mattress and box spring to help your loved one easily get out of bed.
- Mobility aids. Many seniors may benefit from a mobility aid. There are a wide variety of mobility aids available to seniors and people with disabilities, depending on their mobility level. If your loved one has minor mobility issues on one side of their body, a cane may be the right choice, but if their mobility issues are more severe, they may find a power scooter or wheelchair most beneficial.
Learn more:
Our expert guide to assistive technology for seniors
How to choose the right assistive device
Choosing the right assistive devices can be complicated with so many on the market.
If you are helping your loved one pick out the right devices, it’s important they feel included in the process. It may also be a good idea to discuss assistive devices with their doctor and see if they have any recommendations.
Investing in assistive devices as soon as they’re needed, can greatly help with the continued independence, comfort, and safety of your loved one in the years to come. If your or your loved one waits until it is painful or impossible to complete these tasks, it may be more difficult to implement an assistive device into their routine.
Looking for a caregiver for you or a loved one?
At Flourish in Place, we provide home care options for all needs and budgets and specialize in helping families in Central Florida find the appropriate level of care for seniors and people with disabilities.
We offer a wide variety of specialized services including dementia care, cooking and serving nutritious meals, companionship and support, light housekeeping, and medication reminders.
To learn more, please request your Free Consultation today!
Source:
1: CDC | Arthritis Related Statistics
