Your loved one has made their wishes known—they want to age in place and remain in their home through their retirement years. They want to retain their independence as long as possible, despite the physical ailments that have decreased their ability to perform some of the daily activities of living. Technology to the rescue. There are devices available that can help them with several activities from putting on their socks to turning door knobs. The U.S. Department of Education’s National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research sponsors AbleData, a website that has information on more than 30,000 assistive devices.
AbleData
AbleData does not produce or sell the products on the website. They exist as a database in order to provide information on products and their manufacturers or distributors. A few of the categories you can find on their site include products that
- Aid with daily living
- Help with communication
- For the deaf and hard of hearing
- Environmental adaptations
- Housekeeping
- Safety and security
- Seating
- Walking and mobility
- Transportation
- Seating
- Therapeutic aids
Just a few of the products they list include the following:
- Lastic Laces: Coiled shoelaces that can convert any shoe to a slip on.
- Do It Yourself Entry: A rotating transfer device that allows you to use the toilet then swing away from the toilet on the same seat to use the shower hose.
- Pull on slacks with an elastic waistband.
- 12 Alarm Mini Pager Pill Timer—an audible and vibrating medication reminder.
- A Wearable Sensor designed for those with Alzheimer’s.
- Numo Toilet Arms for added stability on toilets.
- Button and Zipper aids to assist individuals when dressing.
- The Bed Rope Ladder designed to help people pull themselves out of bed.
- Metal Reachers that help users grasp items from hard-to-reach places.
- The Assistive Device Kit consists of a long-handled sponge, long-handled shoe horn and a reacher.
- Ableware Door Knob Gripper to help those with arthritis.
These are just a few of the many devices on this website designed to make life a little easier for the aging and disabled. Other useful items include talking kitchen appliances and magnifiers. Visit their website on www.abledata.com or call their information center at 800-227-0216.
Elder Care Provider
While technology offers assistance, there is nothing that compares with a person who is there to help your parent with the daily activities of living. An elder care provider can help with bathing, dressing and light housekeeping. They can run errands and attend to grocery shopping as well as preparing healthy meals and then taking the time to share them with your loved one. They can accompany them on their daily walks and provide transportation to appointments and social outings, ensuring your loved one remains engaged as they age.
Have questions about Elder Care in Kailua HI? Contact the caring staff at All Care Hawaii today. Call Oahu (808) 206-8409 or Maui (808) 664-3853. Call us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!
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