These products are designed to aid independence for those with limited dexterity, strength or sensory function. You should consult a Home Medical Equipment company for advice/product catalogs, but here is an idea of the types of equipment available that can allow your loved one to safely stay in their home and more comfortably perform activities of daily living. Many products can be rented as well as purchased.
It shouldn’t be ignored that these products can also provide a positive psychological effect. They empower an elderly person to manage their own lives and self-efficacy thus supporting their need for dignity, independence and personal-identity.
Mobility Aids
Walkers, rollators (walkers that incorporate a chair for resting en-route), wheelchairs and scooters. Walker caddies/trays (allows you to keep both hands on the walker while taking a plate to the table, for example.)
Bathroom Safety
Raised commode seats or toilet frames, grab bars, shower chairs, walk-in tubs, hand-held showers or bedside commodes.
Emergency Alert Systems
Buttons on wristbands or necklaces that enable you to call for help in an emergency such as a fall.
Sitting, Standing & Transfer Aids
Uplift chairs, grab poles, transfer boards, transfer and walking belts.
Activity Helpers
Reachers, doorknob grippers, light switch extenders (allow someone in a wheelchair to easily reach a light switch), sock/stocking aid, button aid, extra long shoehorn, spill-proof containers, easy-open devices and adaptive utensils, key-holding aid, talking watches/thermometers.
Medication Aids
Pill dispenser, pill pulverizers and programmable medication dispensers (some can provide reminders and control dosage).
Amplified Telephones
Have large numbers, extra-loud ring & flashing light.
Contrasting Color Schemes
The use of contrasting color to highlight changes in walking surfaces.
GPS Systems
May empower an elderly person who becomes disoriented while driving. (This is, of course, assuming the individual is able to drive safely.) GPS systems can also help locate a senior who has become lost.
Remote Monitoring
There is a wide variety of technology solutions on the market that facilitate remote monitoring: pressure mats, video systems, door/window contact sensors and motion detectors. Many have round-the-clock central monitoring. Portable devices are also available.