The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in the home. It’s a cozy nook where people cook meals, dine, and entertain. As people age, using the kitchen to its fullest capacity can become a challenge. Here are low-tech tech gadgets that allow seniors to use the kitchen safely.
Simple activities, like opening a jar, become difficult for seniors with arthritis. Grabbing a drinking glass from the uppermost kitchen cabinets is likely to be unsafe for seniors due to the risk of falls. Using the oven can be a fire hazard if seniors forget to turn it off.
The abovementioned challenges can be an outcome of the aging process. Hearing loss, poor vision, mobility issues, and decreased muscle mass can make it difficult for older adults to maneuver in the kitchen, use cooking tools, and operate appliances in a safe manner.
However, recent advancements in technology give aging people living at home a way to continue using the kitchen independently. Innovations in adaptive and assistive equipment deliver conveniences to seniors who enjoy spending time in the kitchen cooking and to those who use it only occasionally.
Low-Tech Assistive Technology Ideas:
Electric Kettle
Seniors need their morning caffeine, and an electric kettle makes it possible for them to have a hot cup of coffee. An electric kettle is largely visible, which is ideal for seniors with low vision. Featuring a non-skid base, the kettle stays in place and prevents burns and scalding.
Older adults with arthritis, weakened fingers, or decreased arm strength will find this kettle especially convenient; the kettle’s tipper holds it in place, thereby eliminating the need to lift it. The kettle also has an automatic shutoff, which is a safety measure for seniors with memory impairment.
Safety Cutting Board
Eliminate accidental cuts while slicing bread or tomatoes by giving seniors a safety cutting board. The risk of injury is reduced since the board stays in place with rubber feet. Guides hold the knife in place, thereby keeping the slicing motion in a targeted position.
Jar Opener
Inexpensive and easily operated, a jar opener is an essential low-tech gadget for a senior’s kitchen. Some jar openers are designed especially for seniors with arthritic hands or weakness. Choose a jar opener with a non-slip lid and one that is flexible enough to open multi-sized lids.
Bottle Brush
Seniors with weakened hand strength or who have use of only one hand will find a bottle brush to be a convenient tool for washing dishes. The tool adheres to the sink via a suction and scrubs dishware. Simply slide the glasses along the bristles for an effective, easy clean.
Pot and Pan Holder
A pot and pan holder securely keeps pans or pots of all sizes in place on the stovetop, especially during stirring. Suctioned feet keep the holder in place, preventing the pots or pans from spinning. The holder is constructed with durable material, allowing for daily and repetitive usage.
Auto Shutoff Stove
Designed with a built-in shutoff mechanism, the auto shutoff stove is a boon for seniors who are vulnerable to forgetfulness. Cooking fires can be prevented with the aid of this handy mechanism. The feature works by automatically shutting off when no motion is detected for a certain period of time.
LED Faucet Lights
Another helpful tool for seniors who spend time in the kitchen is LED faucet lighting. Faucet lights, when installed, color the water in accordance to its temperature. When the water is hot, a red light colors the water red; and a blue light colors the water when it is cold.
Anti-Fatigue Mat
Cooking requires standing for long periods. Seniors with musculoskeletal problems, arthritis, or other chronic ailments can quickly become fatigued. The anti-fatigue mat is designed to evenly distribute the senior’s weight and relieve pressure in the lower body. As a result, the mat increases comfort.
Talking Microwave Oven
The latest in microwave technology are talking microwave ovens. Through speech, these appliances confirm the selected power, time, and settings. An elderly individual who uses this low-tech assistive gadget is less likely to burn meals or, on the other hand, not heat them through sufficiently.
Kitchen Timers
Turned on, kitchen timers remind seniors when the food is done cooking. It’s important to remember to turn on the timer before placing food in the oven or on the stovetop. The kitchen timer is also useful as a backup to seniors who use a crockpot timing mechanism.
Magnifying Glass
Letters on the back of a food package can be hard to read, especially for seniors with poor eyesight or vision impairments. However, a magnifying glass, one that is lighted and features an ergonomic handle, makes it easier for seniors to read food prep instructions and cookbook recipes.
Home Care and Personal Companion
Seniors stand to benefit when they adopt low-assistive technology in the kitchen. However, the elderly receive even more help when they opt for professional in-home care from Assisting Hands Home Care. We provide invaluable senior care services so that older adults can age in place safely.
Our companion care option is ideal for seniors, especially those who live alone. Companion caregivers from our home care agency provide the essential emotional support to prevent isolation. We have pleasant conversations with care recipients, take them on safe outings and join them in recreational activities.
Caregivers from Assisting Hands Home Care also provide dependable physical support. We shop for fresh groceries, prepare balanced meals, and discreetly assist seniors with personal hygiene tasks, like bathing, dressing, and toileting. Transportation to doctors’ offices, medication reminders, and light housekeeping are a part of our daily care routines.
Families with elderly loved ones living in Palos Heights, Illinois, are encouraged to consult Assisting Hands Home Care for our compassionate home care services. We are available for an in-home consultation to assess care needs and develop a custom care plan. Call us today for quality home care.
