The key is to acknowledge challenges and meet them with appropriate solutions, such as the following products that allow one to remain safe and self-sufficient and maintain an excellent quality of life.
Reach for the Stars
Reaching and bending might be more challenging than they once were. Items placed on a high shelf can be accessed with a step stool, but why not stand with both feet securely on the ground and use a grabber tool instead?Get one with a high rating, easy-pull trigger, and strong jaws. Adjustable-length, foldable, and magnetic tip options are available. All excel at retrieving dropped keys, pill bottles, and other small items; reaching ceiling-mounted fan pulls; and even holding a microfiber cloth to clean the top of windows. The whole family will use it.
Slip Prevention
Falls are always a concern, particularly in the tub or shower. Suction cup grab bars provide a secure handhold without requiring permanent installation. They work well on tiles, glass, fiberglass, acrylic, and other non-porous surfaces.For more secure footing, get a shower mat with plenty of grippy suction cups, a textured surface, and one that has many drain holes to help prevent mold and mildew growth. Another option is to use anti-slip adhesive shower stickers or strips.
Sitting Pretty
Shower chairs, which allow for a moment of rest or for bathing while seated, are becoming more popular. As a result, you can find them in multiple attractive colors and configurations, including models with backrests, armrests, and mobility features such as wheels or sliding seats. Combined shower and over-the-toilet commode models are available as well.Alternatively, a toilet seat riser will add three to 5 1/2 inches to the toilet height. Look for one that securely attaches to the toilet, is hinged for easy cleaning, and fits the particular bowl (round or elongated). With or without side handles is a personal preference.
Logical Living Rooms
Ranging in height from two to six inches, couch risers make the sofa easier to get out of without substantially changing the decor.Power-lift recliners use a motorized lifting mechanism to raise the user up and out. They typically offer more resting positions than a basic recliner.
Bed Time
Bed rails don’t just keep one safely in bed—they make getting in and out easier. Add some handy storage pockets to keep books, phones, tablets, remotes, and reading glasses readily at hand.A sit-up assist device, which attaches to the foot of the bed and features several ladder-like handholds, allows a mobility-impaired person to pull himself into a sitting position or to get out of bed on his own.
Hand-y Helpers
Do you love the doorknob look but find it difficult to grip? Cover it with a silicone grip-enhancing cover or adapter. It’s easily removed if no longer needed or when selling the home.Three-spoke, two-inch-diameter lamp switch enlargers are ideal for weak or arthritic hands, while appliance knob-turning aids make it easier to cook on the stove, run the dishwasher, and use the washer and dryer.
Brighter Is Better
Use automatic night-lights to illuminate halls and stairs and reduce trip hazards without disrupting night vision. No outlets? Rechargeable or battery-powered options are available.For full illumination, add motion-activated light switches to the hall, stairway, and other lighting.
