Useful Gadgets for Seniors with Parkinson’s
Having Parkinson’s can make your life a little bit challenging. As the condition progresses, symptoms like tremor, rigid muscles, slow movements and problems with balance can affect your daily tasks such as cooking, eating, writing and more. Nowadays, technology brings us many assistive devices to help Parkinson’s patients have a normal life and make daily activities easier. Some of these devices also help to keep your loved one safe around the home, preventing falls and injuries.
Assistive devices for cooking and eating
Many companies have launched into the market different tools to help Parkinson’s patients prepare their own meals and eat them without the fear of having an accident in the kitchen. There are special utensils with larger, weighted handles, sensors, removable lids and other characteristics that make cooking and eating a better experience. Knives, with rounded blades used in a rocking motion, electric scissors, can openers and vegetable peelers also make this task easier and safer.
Assistive devices for walking
People with Parkinson’s usually have problems with balance and posture. Canes and walkers are useful to provide the stability someone needs while walking. It’s important to pick the right walking aid, keeping in mind the proper height and shape to support a proper posture. Straight canes work better than tripod or quad canes for seniors with PD. (Parkinson’s Disease). In the case of walkers, four-wheeled walkers are the best for more stability.
Assistive devices for getting dressed
Getting ready for everyday activities can be a challenge, especially getting dressed. Fastening buttons and zippers can be a difficult task for someone with PD.
Clothing fasteners, such as magnetic buttons and zipper pulls, can help you or your loved one dress in an easier way. Lightweight, supportive shoes with Velcro tabs or elastic shoelaces are safer and easier to put on. Socks with nonslip soles help prevent falls.
Assistive devices for the bathroom
Besides getting dressed, keeping personal hygiene and a good image can be another issue for seniors with Parkinson’s. Fortunately, there are many devices available that help make these activities easier and picture the bathroom, as a more friendly and safer space. You can add bars and handrails to the tub and shower in order to make it easier to get in and out of them. Non-skid mats are always a good idea to avoid an emergency during the shower. Tub chairs or benches and toilet seats are really helpful for stability, especially in those cases in which Parkinson’s is very advanced.
Tools for daily grooming such as electric toothbrushes and electric razors make it easier to keep your hygiene and good image.
Assistive devices for writing
The motor symptoms of PD can make holding and using a pencil or pen a challenging task, handwriting becomes small, cramped, and laborious. Keeping your hand relaxed while writing is almost impossible, but to make it manageable, there are many writing gadgets available that are easier to grip, and fit most round items like a pen, pencil, or a toothbrush.
Should you look for professional help?
Family members play an important role in the life of a PD patient. But sometimes it is a good idea to look for caregivers that are specialized and trained to assist seniors with these kinds of conditions. Here at Right at Home, we care about you and your loved one’s well-being, that’s why our compassionate and skilled home caregivers will help relieve the pain and stress of managing the unpredictable and common symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.