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Carers'
Corner |
Assistive
Devices for Activities of Daily Living (I)
As
age increases, the physical capabilities as well as self-care abilities
gradually declines. Elderly people can use various types of assistive
devices to help with daily activities and to maintain functional independence
despite physical and cognitive decline. Caregivers can base on the needs
of the elderly, select the appropriate assistive devices, to enable the
elder to live safely, independently and happily, thus improving self-confidence,
self-image and self-care abilities.
What is an assistive device?
Assistive
device is a specially designed device to assist people who have difficulty
to perform activities of daily living. It can be applied in different
situations, including dressing, feeding, toileting, bathing, grooming,
household activities) and mobility (lifting and transfer). Commonly used
devices can be classified into the following categories:
Types
of assistive devices
Dressing
(Put
on/off clothing, socks and shoes)
- Suitable
for elderly with impaired limb function
stocking
aid
|
Long-handle
shoehorn |
button
hook |
Feeding
Feeding
- Suitable
for elders with impaired hand function and agility such as stroke and
osteoarthritis of hand
Mug
with two handles¡BUniversal cuff¡BDycem¡BScooper bowl
Nosey cutout cup¡BAdapted chopsticks |
Drug
management
- Suitable
for elders with impaired memory and hand functions
(Med-on-time¡BDrug organizer¡BPill splitter¡BPill crusher) |
Living
Personal Hygiene
- Suitable
for elders with impaired mobility, so as to avoid home accident
- Elderly
and caregiver can consider the following device to enhance safety. Consult
Occupational Therapist for assessment and training before making a decision
|
Toileting
and bathing |
|
Bath
board |
Shower
chair |
Bathroom
grabbar |
Grooming aids(Long handle comb¡BLong handle
brush¡BSuction brush¡BLooped towel¡B)
|
Living
- Suitable
for elders with impaired hand functions e.g. stroke, osteoarhtritis,
Parkinson¡¦s disease
Jar
opener |
Multi-purpose
opener |
Key
holder |
Home
safety
- To
reduce the risk of home accident
dge
protector |
night
light |
Mobility
Lifting
and transfer
- Elders and caregivers
can consider the following device to enhance safety. Consult Occupational
Therapist for assessment and training before making a decision
Wheelchair cushions |
Bed rails |
Rope ladder |
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High back chair |
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