8 Must-Have Assistive Devices for the Elderly
We All Need a Little Help Sometimes
If you’re concerned about your senior loved one’s independence in daily activities and routines, assistive devices may help. As seniors age, personal care tasks such as getting out of bed and getting dressed can become more difficult. Your loved one may also be at a higher risk for falls and injuries. Assistive devices include both simple and high-tech tools — rehab poles, wearable alert devices, wireless headphones, and more — for seniors who need a bit of extra support. These products not only can help your loved one safely accomplish tasks on their own, but they can also bring you some extra peace of mind.
Key Takeaways
Assistive devices provide extra support for seniors. They make daily tasks easier and give caregivers peace of mind.
There are many benefits to assistive devices. These include added safety and allowing the senior to regain some of their independence.
Devices range from mobility supports to high-tech tools. Whether your loved one has trouble getting out of bed or remembering to attend appointments, the user-friendly tools in our list can help.
Look for products that provide seniors with comfort and confidence. Consider your loved one’s current abilities, and make sure the device will last into the future.
1. Rehabilitation poles
The ACTIVATOR 2 Rehab Poles increase balance and mobility and are a terrific alternative to canes and walkers. The dual poles offer lateral stability and are designed for individuals living with conditions such as chronic pain, multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s disease, and stroke.
These rehabilitation poles are also a great option for people who are recovering from hip or knee surgery. Each pole has the capacity to bear up to 225 pounds of weight and features a bell-shaped tip for stability, as well as an ergonomically correct handle for core strengthening.
The poles are adjustable to accommodate most body shapes and sizes, and they can be used both indoors and outdoors. Plus, they’re collapsible, so the user can easily travel with them.
Price: $149.99 (price may fluctuate)
2. Button hook
This type of assistive device is great for seniors with arthritis, fine motor impairment, or reduced dexterity.
The simple tool features a hook and wire design and an ergonomic, nonslip handle. It enables the user to button blouses, jackets, and pants easily by minimizing stress on the user’s fingers and hands.
There’s even a hook on one end of the tool to help with zippers. The button hook is 7.5 inches long, so it’s portable enough to take on the go.
Price: $9.99 (price may fluctuate)
3. Bed handle
This specialized bed handle from KingPavonini makes getting out of bed safe. It’s is easy to install between a mattress and box spring of any size, and it features adjustable legs that extend to the ground for added support.
The handle itself is only about 6 pounds but is designed to support up to 300 pounds. Its safety strap and nonslip handle allow for a firm, stable grip.
This is a must-have item for individuals with arthritis, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, or vertigo.
Price: $44.79 (price may fluctuate)
4. Toilet aid
The Juvo Toilet Aid tool is ergonomically designed for people with limited dexterity who have difficulty reaching when they wipe. This assistive device is 18 inches long and is equipped with a tissue holder that securely grips moistened wipes and toilet paper.[04]
The handle has a trigger for locking wipes in place and one for releasing that makes for easy disposal of wipes after use. This is a great device for someone who needs assistance but still wishes to use the toilet independently.
Price: $24.99 (price may fluctuate)
5. Wearable alert device
The Lively Mobile2 is a wearable medical alert device with an urgent-response button that can call for help whenever it’s pushed. Its fashion-forward design allows it to be clipped to clothing or worn around the neck, although using the lanyard is required for the fall detection technology to work.[05]
This device can also be worn in the shower, where a significant number of falls occur. A Certified Urgent Response Agent will be notified if a fall is detected. Family members can also be registered for notification if the button is pressed.[05]
A smartphone with the Lively app is required. The app is easy to set up and lets seniors track their daily steps, connect with other Lively users, and contact the customer service team.
A monthly service fee is necessary after purchase of the device, but discounts for AARP members are available.
Price: $79.99 plus monthly fees that range from $9.99 to $34.99, depending on the services you want
6. Reminder alarm clock
The Rosie 2, a unique voice-controlled alarm clock, is a great device for seniors struggling with memory loss. It’s incredibly user-friendly: no fussy buttons, no frustrations associated with Wi-Fi, and no difficult programming features.[06]
The device can also be personalized with the voice of the user or their loved ones. Record up to 25 personalized reminders and messages, and set daily time-specific reminders for appointments or everyday tasks.
Rosie’s large display and battery backup make this a practical device to help seniors maintain independence and ease caregiver stress.
Price: $199.99 (price may fluctuate)
7. Wireless TV headphones
The AudioRange ITE-1000 can be connected to a television and worn like a headset to hear dialogue clearly.
Using only the headset, seniors can mute the TV and still listen to the audio. The headset also includes a microphone button to pick up surrounding voices, so the user can turn it into a hearing aid.
This product’s design features ear buds, which go inside your ears, but AudioRange also offers the OTE-1000 with a more traditional, over-the-ear design.
Price: $129.99
8. Chair lift
The Able Life stand-assist device can be used with a recliner, love seat, or sofa to manually lift the user into a standing position. This wonderfully adaptive tool for the elderly can help those with coccyx pain or other joint ailments.
The frame can accommodate a couch or seat up to 26 inches wide and up to 27 inches deep. Its handles are adjustable between 7 and 10 inches, and they’re also padded for comfort.
Price: $88.07 (price may fluctuate)
Benefits of assistive devices for seniors
Assistive devices for seniors are adaptive tools designed to help bridge gaps in an older adult’s mobility and ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs), such as dressing and personal hygiene tasks. These devices can restore confidence and increase freedom. For example, seniors can use adaptive tools to get out of bed, remind them of appointments, or button up a shirt.
Assistive devices can also provide peace of mind to family members. By helping seniors access tools such as medical alert technology and stand-assist devices, you can feel more confident about their safety and mobility when you’re not with them.
Seniors may benefit from assistive devices if they relate to any of the following experiences:
They need help with mobility and balance, either in everyday life or after a surgery.
They struggle with clothes fasteners, like zippers and buttons.
They have trouble getting in and out of their bed, couch, or chair.
They need extra support with toileting.
They are prone to falls or need a quick way to get help in an emergency.
They experience memory loss.
They have trouble hearing.
What to look for when choosing an assistive device
It’s important to set your senior family member up with tools that are truly helpful and won’t become a source of frustration.
As you shop for assistive devices, ask yourself the following questions:
Will the device help my senior loved one regain some independence?
Can my loved one use the device safely and confidently on their own?
Will the device provide help for months or years to come, or does it only provide a quick fix?
Is the device made to last throughout many uses?
Does the device have positive customer reviews?
Invest in future comfort
Investing in devices like the products described above means investing in continued independence, comfort, and safety for your loved one in the years to come.
Assistive technology can greatly improve a senior’s lifestyle by making daily tasks easier. But when your loved one’s care needs increase, you may need to start thinking about assisted living or in-home care.
If you think your loved one needs more care or assistance than you can provide, consider reaching out to a Senior Living Advisor with A Place for Mom to learn more about future options and how to prepare for any changes — all at no cost to your family.
This article originally appeared on aPlaceforMom and was syndicated by MediaFeed.org.
