Change is not always easy, but when mom or dad has the support of compassionate home health care services enriching their daily lives, positive outcomes are possible. Physical and emotional changes always come about with aging. What may have been easy for your parent months or even weeks ago may suddenly be more challenging. But caregivers and occupational therapists assist the senior population with assistive devices to maintain independent living.

Useful Assistive Devices for Seniors

One example of a gizmo that can help your parent is a grab and reach tool, also called a pick-up stick. This is often used for individuals to pick items up off the floor or to reach for objects overhead. It is in your parent’s best interest to have a caregiver or an occupational therapist instruct them on the best usage of this tool. Using proper body mechanics is crucial to avoiding any injury.

A high rise toilet allows your parent to better sit on and get off the commode without additional help. Typically these toilets are the height of a chair. Replacing a toilet may add some additional expense that you and your parent may not have planned into their budget, however, it is money well spent. There are also plastic high rise additions you can place on the toilet to raise its height. However, these are slightly less sturdy, so bear this in mind when considering your options.  When having the toilet installed add a safety grab bar along the wall beside the toilet to ensure that your mother or father will be secure when toileting without assistance.

Kitchen safety is another area where gadgets will keep your mother or father safe. Begin with removing any throw rugs that may cause your parent to slip or trip. Area rugs are the most common cause of injury in the home. If your parent is preparing food in the kitchen but has a tendency to forget to turn the stove off, discontinue use of the stove. It may be safer for your loved one to rely on the microwave, a coffeemaker, and a toaster that all have automatic shut-off options. These gizmos and gadgets will allow your parent to prepare food and stay safe.

Help from a Caregiver

Allow mom and dad’s caregiver to assess their needs and suggest other safety items as well. Our home health aides at Assisting Hands Home Care in Fort Myers, FL are trained to identify any potential falling or tripping hazards throughout the home. They can also help to guide your loved one if assistance is needed with walking.

Give us a call at (239) 337-4263 to learn more about how we can help your parent stay safe and happy at home with our home care services.