By 2034, the number of adults over age 65 is expected to be larger than the number of children in the United States for the first time in history. Having so many older adults means that the need for caregivers will continue to increase.
As a caregiver, you may have to assist with ADLs (activities of daily living). Depending on the needs of your loved one, you may be responsible for feeding them, bathing them, dressing them, grooming or even transferring from bed to wheelchair.
Caregiving tasks can cause caregivers to feel physically and emotionally exhausted. Thankfully, products exist that can ease the burden of caregiving while keeping your loved one safe.
This article discusses different products that can make caring for older adults easier.
Personal Alert System
A caregiver can be notified of any changes in an older adult’s health status by using a variety of personal alert systems. Personal alert systems can monitor for abnormal heart rhythms or rates, identify and report falls and provide medication reminders.
Shower Transfer Bench
A shower transfer bench extends beyond the tub, allowing the user to sit down and slide the other way in order to sit over the tub. This eliminates having to step over the raised edge to enter the shower stall. Tub transfer benches are especially useful for people who have mobility issues, balance problems, or flexibility issues.
According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the most common caregiver injuries are back, neck, and shoulders.
Bidet Toilet Attachment
Some caregivers find that a bidet attachment is helpful in cleaning people after they use the toilet. A study found that bidet toilets reduce the physical strain on caregivers. The bidet is a nozzle with a water spray that gently washes your bottom. Bidet fixtures can also be attached to conventional toilets.
Positioning Transfer Sheet
A positioning sheet or patient transfer sheet is a bedsheet that is made from specialized fabrics, such as nylon, to make it easier for a person to be repositioned in bed. Many transfer sheets have handles and are water-resistant and waterproof. They can be used to lift, turn, scoot and reposition someone in bed.
One study showed that caregivers need to use less force to move a patient when using a friction-reducing sheet.
Anti-Fatigue Floor Mat
Anti-fatigue mats are designed for people who stand on hard surfaces (like concrete or tile floors) and experience pain, fatigue and pressure. A floor mat that reduces fatigue can help the caregiver to be less physically stressed.
Products for Older Adults
Many products can help older people to be more independent and safe at home.
Bath Brush
As we age, our hip and shoulder flexibility decreases. This makes it more difficult to reach and clean certain body parts. A long-handled bath brush can help a person reach further without straining.
Shower Chair
Shower chairs allow a person to bathe while sitting in the shower. They are made of plastic, have four non-slip feet and fit into the shower or tub. They are available with and without a back, and are great for those who have difficulty balancing on slippery surfaces.
Bathroom falls are the most common cause of hospitalization in older adults.
Adjustable Bed Rail
Many standard household beds can be fitted with adjustable or static bed rails. You can choose from a bed rail that swivels or turns, one that extends and grows longer as the senior gets into bed, or one that flips. Bed rails can help prevent a senior from falling out of bed. They also provide additional support. Make sure the rail you select has a quick release in case of an emergency.
Overbed Table
Overbed tables are similar to those in hospital rooms. These tables are usually on wheels and can be raised or lowered. Tray tables provide a surface for eating, writing, reading, or working while in bed. Tables can be used to sit at the edge or in a chair or as a surface in the bedroom.
Overbed tables on wheels should not be used as a support for standing or walking.
Motion-Sensor Nightlights
Motion-sensor nightlights are not only a safety measure to prevent falls, but they also let caregivers know when their loved ones are awake. Place them near staircases, hallways, kitchens and bathrooms.
Pill Crusher
Pill crushers can be used to reduce tablets into powder. Powdered medications can be mixed with liquids or added to soft foods like applesauce and pudding. If the pills are too large or difficult to swallow, they can be crushed.
Not all medications are safe to crush. Ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for more information about the package if you plan to crush medications on behalf of yourself or someone else.
Disposable Underpads
Disposable underpads are made with an inner layer of cotton to absorb liquids, and an outer layer that is waterproof. These can be used as a bed liner to help manage incontinence, or to absorb body fluids such as vomit.
You can use them in wheelchairs, regular chairs, and with other furniture. In a study, disposable underpads were associated with fewer hospital acquired pressure injuries (pressure sores) than reusable ones.
Wheelchair
Wheelchairs can be a great mobility aid for people with limited mobility due to fatigue, weakness, breathing problems, poor balance or other health issues. Wheelchairs are available in many places, and some health insurance companies will cover their cost.
First Aid Kit
A home first-aid kit should contain basic supplies for minor injuries, cuts, and scrapes. To be able use the kit effectively in an accident, it is important to keep it well-stocked and easily accessible. You can purchase pre-made first aid kits at major retailers or create your own.
Set a reminder on your phone to remind you to check the expiration dates of first aid supplies and to replenish them.
Emergency Response System
A personal emergency response (PERS) or medical alert system is a small device which connects to a monitoring and is available as watches, necklaces and other wearable devices.
They can activate emergency response systems like ambulances with a single touch. Some systems are only useful in the home, while others can also be used in the community.
Phones with Vision-Hearing
Special phones can help with loss of hearing and vision. There are large-button phones, some with louder amplification and hearing aid models which can be connected to a cell. Some cell phone providers offer simplified phones that have larger icons, large dialing numbers, and fewer menus and apps to sort through.
Summary
There are many disability products available for older adults. These products can keep them safe, and their caregivers comfortable. When providing home care, personal hygiene products, bed assistive devices, mobility aids and other products may be useful. Try out different devices with your healthcare team to find one that works.
Original Blog: https://www.verywellhealth.com/products-for-seniors-5220011
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