8 Assistive Devices to Help Seniors Thrive
- Lindsay Gentis
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
Today we are sharing 8 different assistive devices for the elderly! Assistive devices are any tool that helps a person do daily activities of living.
There are many benefits of assistive devices for the elderly. For one, assistive devices promote independence. The elderly will be able to do more on their own instead of solely relying on a caregiver. Assistive devices also help the elderly thrive at home for a longer period of time. Here at HCHC, we want the elderly and disabled to enjoy being in the comfort of their own home. We hope that these assistive devices will help make that happen!
So, let’s dive in to learn about 8 assistive devices that could benefit you or a loved one in living a more fulfilled life!
Grab bars are first on our list! Most likely you’ve seen grab bars in the handicap stalls at public restrooms or in some people’s houses. Typically installed by the toilet and in the shower, grab bars help a person steady oneself in the bathroom. Grab bars even prevent falls! According to the Medical Guardian, over 230,000 people are injured in the bathroom annually. You can prevent the risk of injury by installing grab bars in your bathroom and making sure that your bathroom is a safe place for you or someone you know!
Many of you have probably seen a grabber reacher. It is an assistive device that literally helps you grab or reach for objects! The grabber reacher can be of use for reaching that book that is too high on the bookshelf or reaching those shoes that are too far under the bed. A second pair of hands right at your fingertips! This tool might be a staple to have at home!
The long leg lifter is a simple strap with a loop on the end. You simply hook your foot into the loop and hold on to the other end of the strap with your hands. By using your arm strength, you can hoist your legs into bed one at a time. If you have recently had a hip or knee replacement, the long leg lifter might be especially beneficial.
Dressing is an activity of daily living that most want to do for themselves as long as they can. The dressing stick and shoe horn can make this possible! The dressing stick can assist you in putting a jacket or sweater on, or the shoe horn can assist you with sliding on your shoes and socks! When dressing isn’t as easy as it used to be, the dressing stick and shoe horn come in handy.
The Medical Alert System is a piece of technology that detects falls and has an SOS button for one to push for any emergencies they run into. It is typically worn around the neck, making it easy to carry around. If you live alone or are prone to falling, this device could be a lifesaver!
As people age, they usually find that they have less energy, and many find themselves sitting in a recliner or chair for most of their day. If this sounds like you, a memory foam seat cushion might be beneficial! This cushion could help prevent pressure sores and skin breakdown that can develop by frequent sitting. It is not worth the pain, but a cushion is probably worth it!
A transfer belt aids in assisting the elderly with transfers. It clips around the waist, providing a place for a caregiver to grab onto during transfers and walking. It is a very simple tool but could really do a lot in saving one from injury or falling.
An elderly person may love their recliner but can't get out of their recliner! If this is an issue, the Universal stand assist may be a good fit! The universal stand assist slides under seat cushions and provides handlebars that assist a person with standing up! It can even be adjusted to the appropriate height for various chairs. If you need a little extra support to get out of your chair, a universal stand assist is a very helpful tool.
There you have it! 8 assistive devices that are very practical and affordable for the elderly! Our hope is that these devices will promote independence and prolong the stay at home. We want to see the elderly live their best lives possible!
If you are in need of assistive devices or medical equipment, HomeCourt Home Care can provide additional resources for you! We are always happy to hear your situation to see how we can help! Call us today at 260-333-1114 to learn more!
Amazon Links to assistive devices below!
Handicap Rails Grab Bars - https://amzn.to/3FKqAuL
Grabber Reacher - Grabber Reacher Amazon
Long Leg Lifter - https://amzn.to/4ce319K
Dressing Stick & Shoe Horn - Dressing Stick & Shoe Horn Amazon
Medical Alert System - https://amzn.to/4jfboEo
Memory Foam Seat - https://amzn.to/43ur7e0
Gait Transfer Belt - https://amzn.to/4iPWdS0
Universal Stand Assist - https://amzn.to/4jxacwj