Last year we visited adaptive tools for the kitchen. After a year, I haven’t yet purchased a set of ‘Forghetti’ pasta forks (it’s still on my list). Like many of us, need is generally what motivates me; I continue to manage my pasta with my simple utensils, so hence no Forghetti (yet). Both my husband and I tend to be kitchen ‘gear-heads’ so I imagine it’s coming someday soon.

As I mentioned in Universal Design in Kitchen Utensils, “adaptive tools” (as the name implies) help us adapt to our special needs. Last year’s blog concentrated on the kitchen, a place where these tools can help us avoid pain, be time saving and safer. They let us skate through life with a little more ease.

Yet, the kitchen isn’t the only place to consider universal design. When we plan to “Age in Place” for as long as possible, or lead independence lives in any situation, the bath is another area of concern. Compared to the kitchen, one benefit of baths is that not too many people join us there (despite what television shows portray); maybe even more so as we age.

Goals of Universal Design

Universal Design concepts have been around for a while now. Doubtless, we have all read articles, or advertisements for expensive home remodels, that entice us with the idea of creating an easier lie (oops, I meant life).

Universal design has several principles. Even small tools or gadgets can be designed with these elements in mind to assist injured, ill, aged, or wily, cunning people gain an advantage. The principles include:

• Equitable use (good for those with diverse abilities)
• Flexibility in use (wide range of preferences and abilities)
• Simple and intuitive (easy to understand)
• Perceptible information (different modes of our senses are used)
• Tolerance for error (avoiding adverse consequences from unintentional use)
• Low physical effort (used comfortably with minimal fatigue)
• Size and space for approach and use (account not only for physical space, but body posture and mobility – reaching, manipulating, etc.)

Self-Conscious of Adaptive Tools ?

In addition to the goals of universal design covered above, I will add that items which have a pleasing design to everyone are more likely to catch our attention and inspire our use. Even décor need not suffer from universal design if we put special shopping and planning skills into it.

Still, if you have second thoughts about using any adaptive tool, you aren’t alone. But the same is true, that you aren’t alone, if you need a bit of assistance. Research expects that by 2040 (as Baby Boomers age) those with some form of arthritis that interferes with the kitchen, dressing or any other number of activities will rise to 50% from its current 25% of American adults (according to the Arthritis Foundation). And that’s just one condition.

The rise in average life expectancy will make R & D of new adaptive design more common and necessary. Although it may be less noticeable, even now we accept ergonomic design at our computer stations or even our dining room chairs. There’s no reason not to take advantage of opportunities to avoid obstacles, take steps to ease life and keep us rolling along. If the products work, that alone makes them a priceless investment.

Note: Let me assure you that items mentioned here, or in the kitchen post, are just examples. I receive no kickback for their promotion. I don’t necessarily condemn that approach, as those who explain, describe and show products on YouTube or other social media in hope of receiving a small percentage of their sale are also doing a good service.

Universal Design in the Bath

There are numerous items for the bath that accommodate seniors in daily tasks and reduce injury, falls, or other embarrassing mishaps. Here I’ve included numerous ones that caught my attention. As usual, they are not necessarily senior-only merchandise.

Hand Holding Helpers

While often used with children before their dexterity is developed, several different types of adaptors for bathroom (or other room utensils) can aid those with Parkinson’s, neuropathy, poor grip strength or arthritis.

The left one is often referred to as a universal cuff, the right is tubing, such as Vive Foam Tubing (that you can cut to any length). Most of these are versatile enough to fit over typical (not all) handheld items in the bath (or kitchen). Look for products that are dishwasher safe.

Give yourself more than one attempt to get use to the large feel, which can be awkward at first. They should be very inexpensive and easily available.

Beyond the Grab Bar

I’m of the opinion that none of us, of any age, should be without a grab bar in the shower or bath. If by any chance you are still considering this helper, see one example here, although the styles are numerous enough to fit any bathroom décor. However, we can go a step further and make certain that the bar (even when wet) is not slippery. Consider waterproof, grip tape that can easily be applied on the bar and vastly increase its safety factor. There are several brands, like 3M and Yorwe. Major bang for your buck as a way to avoid any bangs to your knees or head (without resorting to helmet and rollerblading guards in the bathtub).

Faucet Extender

A simple faucet extender, such as the Aqueduck (that comes in a couple colors) makes washing hands a breeze without bending or reaching forward. Perhaps a bit nicer looking type (only an opinion) is the Frizzlife swivel faucet (or one like it). If it fits your sink’s current faucet it can be very useful to clean your sink as well. Several have more than one mode of spray power.

Senior Men Get Help Hitting the Target

It’s not always just older men, but wives and women often complain that men overshoot (or undershoot) their targets at the toilet. For those with low vision, or other age-related issues, missing the bowl can be annoying for those who do the clean-up (be it the men or someone else). These decals help keep the ‘target’ visible for the correct aim. A mom has invented a more fun cartoon type for the younger boys. But the older boys can use the Berryzilla Hit the Spot Decal or the Toilet Sniper Targets. We are talking under $10.

Incontinence Mat

Not to be left out, some women also have toilet bowl issues. Both women and men can suffer frequent or occasional incontinence, the results which can show up around the toilet bowl. We’ve all seen the senior ‘diaper’ commercials and know discretion is key, but so is clean up. Whether it’s urination issues, dementia, Parkinson’s or incontinence, slips can be messy. These disposable mats make cleaning up accidents less troublesome. The ToidyMat is one such product. They aren’t exactly cheap (more than $1 apiece), but I assume this may not be a nightly occurrence.

Easy Soap Dispenser – No Touch

Secura has a place in my heart as they make my very favorite water kettle (long lasting, safe and fast). But here they are offering their attractive Premium Touchless Automatic Soap Dispenser (which can be attached to the wall or free standing and comes in various metal looks). Like several other products on this list, it’s useful for those with limited mobility or strength, arthritis, Parkinson’s or dementia. They claim it dispenses just the right amount of soap, which can also be useful and a mess-saver when the grandkids are around.

Bathtub Safety Rail

My home has a bathtub in which, if someone wants to get in or out from it, much care is necessary. Normally I suggest a towel on the wide rim to sit on while my guests (or family) make the climb in either direction. But this special tub rail is a terrific idea for either the elderly, injured or those recovering from surgery or other muscular problems. Not to mention that it can reduce the falls that happen around the bathtub for everyone. This is particularly useful if there is no opportunity to install a wall-mounted Security bar in your bath. Models like this Vaunn are generally assembled without tools and can be used for left or right-handed folks.

There are other brands and variation of this product, but the adjustable height feature of the Vaunn is a real bargain.

Trusty Toilet Valet

OK, I suspect this isn’t going to be your favorite item unless you are clearly in need. Previously, I admitted that you wouldn’t be tempted by all this stuff unless the time was right.  I am guessing that scenario is very true of this particular product. On the other hand, if necessary, this could save some vanity and pride.

For anyone who has recovered from surgery, spinal conditions, muscle sprains/strains, or has simply lost some mobility, reaching behind you to ‘wipe’ after toilet business can be very painful or difficult. This little device makes the whole hygiene procedure easier. It can also be used with moist wipes as well as TP.  Pictured is Juvo Toilet Aid.  Find other brands and similar toilet tissue aids here.

An Add-on Bidet

After the last item, this might seem downright cultured. The bidet can be a helpful aid or just a luxury, especially if you have the heated kind. My friend ‘M’ got one as a gift and I was all too happy to try it out. Including it in this product list is to point out that it can help overcome the challenges for seniors, those with arthritis, or with an acute back spasm, to conduct the necessary cleaning activities. There are so many varieties I can’t pick out one to suggest. I’ll point out that they can be hot or cold water, require electricity or not, attach to a standard toilet or not, provide a heated seat or not. AND be costly or not. So, check before you buy. You might start with this buyer’s guide. Best Luxe Bidets

Non-skid Mat

In the kitchen blog I mentioned Fatigue Mats for the Kitchen Sink, something similar is a safety precaution in the bath. Typical bathmats can actually increase falls because they are likely to slide and take you down like a skater on ice. Plus, often they’re too bulky and can flip up or catch your toes. Non-skid mats with rubberized backing will stick to the floor more securely. Also, the thinner they are, the less likely edges will trip you up. Additionally, if you use a walker in the bathroom, you are more likely to be able to glide over the rug, again without trips or falls.

The choices are numerous. I liked this one shown as it touts a quick dry, and is reasonably priced as well.

Toothpaste Tube Squeezers

One last thought about products designed to help us in the bathroom. They don’t all work. For instance, there are several toothpaste tube squeezers that function with a key-like knob. That is not something we want to rely on as we grow older. The knobs can be difficult to turn even at a younger, stronger age. There are other ubiquitous items that go on the end of the tube, and you squeeze up as the tube empties. That too is difficult, especially for anyone with loss of finger/hand strength. There are a couple types that might help if you like the idea of getting every last bit of your toothpaste. A few squeezers are ‘automatic ‘- working either with batteries or by pushing. The latter is preferred. Especially so if it’s stand alone and you can use your full arm strength to lean on it, rather than wall mounted where you have a bit less strength. Plus, you don’t have to recharge your batteries. These may actually be worth the small price if you have room on your counter.

FINAL THOUGHT

If you don’t want to purchase things that appear to be for ‘older folks’ (ha), that’s ok. I’m just hoping to encourage us to skate through the little discomforts as much as we can. Keep rolling along (even if not on rollerblades). Ultimately, at least you know some of these adaptive tools are available if need ever overshadows resistance.

Finally, I didn’t list many prices anywhere. I warn you that they can change frequently AND drastically. Also check more than one supplier (and definitely more than just Amazon).

For most of us, no matter our current abilities or level of independence, the gadgets and gizmos we use at home can make life easier and Pizzazz more accessible.

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Title Image by Mircea Iancu from Pixabay

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Originally Published on https://www.agingwithpizzazz.com/

Barbara Klein Blogger

I hit the Second 50 mark a while back, but have my sights on a different goal –much longer, quality living.

While I may have a ‘dr’ in front of my name, the credentials for this blog are the same as yours – I am on a journey to Age with Pizzazz, whether that is body, mind, spirit or just fun and learning.  It is important to me to share related information with others as well.

I currently live in Southern Oregon with my husband, Michael.  I have had the good fortune (well, usually good fortune) to have called several states my home: Vermont, New York (family home with various locations along the way), Massachusetts (a short stint), Georgia, West Virginia, Connecticut, Arizona and most recently (2014) Oregon.

I grew up in upstate New York to a financially-modest family and did most of my schooling there.  My undergraduate work was in education (music and special education).  I did post graduate work in music therapy (and became an RMT – Registered Music Therapist).  My master’s degree from The New School in New York was in Hospital and Health Care Administration – and also convinced me that along with wonderful advancements, much is wrong with our traditional American medical and health care system (at least at that point).  There was a year more of pre-med courses in the southeast and then a doctorate degree in chiropractic (an industry that also has its many up and down sides).

I often joke that I have had as many professions or jobs as I do fingers.  To live up to that claim, I will name some: waitress, low-level banker, music and special Ed teacher, music therapist, mental health professional, gig performer, real estate agent (for which I had a shot at being the worst ever), probation officer, chiropractor, author and consultant.