Senior safety equipment options are plentiful.
Many seniors can benefit from equipment that improves their safety and independence. However, numerous clients I have worked with in the past have not been aware of all the many resources that are available to help improve their safety and health organization in their home or facility. The following is a list of common equipment that clients I have worked with have found extremely helpful. Most of these items are not covered by insurance, but may help someone retain their independence and improve their safety. I have reminded clients often the cost of one trip to the ER compared to a $50.00 purchase! If you cannot find a good deal on Prime Day, many of these items can be found in church and community donation closets. If you receive used equipment do be sure to check for safety and wear.
Safety equipment should be purchased with caution.
Don’t skimp time on making sure you order the correct piece of equipment for your needs!
-Read the details regarding height, weight, and size. A lot of equipment is adjustable, but within certain parameters.
-Consider where you would use the equipment, and the space available to contain it. Will it fit through the doorway, or does a door require the space to to open or close near it.
-Make sure it will work with your existing set up of equipment, furniture, etc.
-Follow all instructions carefully for safe and secure set up. I have found in client’s homes unsafe and improper set up of equipment that might have led to injury!
-Consider which tasks are most important and/or most difficult. Ask friends and family to help you discover equipment which might ease the burdens of the tasks.
-The list below is a sample of common equipment I have seen appreciated and used. Taking the time to get and use the right equipment can make a huge difference in safety and independence!
-If in doubt, it is always best to have a clinician help you figure out what is appropriate for your exact needs and situation, especially if you or your loved one is weak or has a history of falls.
This information is for educational purposes, and should not be considered as a personal recommendation, as I am not your personal physical therapist. Your own personal clinician and health team should recommend what is appropriate for you or your loved one. Please refer to the medical disclaimer.
Don’t miss these Prime Deals for helpful equipment:
Clinicians- please use this information for patient education, and families/seniors- please use this as a guide, or to review with your personal health caregiver. (affiliate links)
A door handle grip for those with wrist pain or weakness. (affiliate link)
A large face digital clock with day, date, and time. Staying connected to date and time is good for cognition. This clock is great for people who have memory issues or difficulty seeing the small numbers on a watch. (affiliate link)
For the crafty or ones who struggle to see small print, a magnifier with light is extremely helpful! (affiliate link)
A mini exercise pedaller is great for those who are limited with mobility. (affiliate link)
A blood pressure monitor is great to have available at home. (affiliate link)
Resistance Bands for Exercise are popular and helpful. (affiliate link)
Elastic Laces or a pair of slip on sketchers for ease of getting in and out of shoes. (affiliate link)
Car Transfer Handle assist for safety with travel. (affiliate link)
Reachers for fall prevention and back care/ shoulder care protection. (affiliate link)
An Electric Jar Opener to protect wrist health. (affiliate link)
A Shower Seat (with backrest and armrests for balance and support to get up), Shower Seat (with back rest but without arm rests, less space but less support), or a Shower Stool (no back rest or arms to push from). You may want a therapist to assist with this! (affiliate link)
Get something fun that will increase activity like a small home golf putter: (affiliate link)
Rather than adding ankle or arm weights for walking, a safer option is a weighted vest,(affiliate link)
Get feedback for personalized safety items from a therapist!
There are many variables to consider for personalized equipment such as walkers, bath seats, and rail placements. Shower doors, mobility devices, (walker, cane, wheelchair, etc) strength, and balance may all have a huge impact on where and what you place in someone’s home for increased safety and independence. There are so many considerations and options, that it is vitally important to get personal, professional input to ensure the best device and set up for your personal situation. Just ask your physician for a therapist referral, or call a local rehab/therapy clinic to get an appointment- many states have direct access, meaning you can see a PT or OT without a physician prescription!
Stay on top of your health with great reminders, logs, trackers, and handouts!
Trackers, logs and clear handouts will improve your ability to make positive changes. Check out these senior centered health handout packets for improved safety and follow through!
Clinicians- check out this course on Geriatric Specialization Certification at Pesi. I have taken many courses from them and learned so much. I am an affiliate for them because of their helpful courses and great deals! Use my link for a discount.:)
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I would love to hear what you think! Do you have any other equipment recommendations or tips for caregivers or seniors? Subscribe below to the blog for a FREEBIE starter packet of printable handouts for healthy living and patient education!