Adult diapers, incontinence products, wheelchairs and walking sticks immediately come to mind when you think of products for the elderly, but there are many more out there. We’ve compiled a list of the six most useful products that can make the aging process easier.
Grabbers and Reachers
More than one-fourth (27 percent) of women ages 65 to 74 lived alone in 2014.In fact, the percentage of women living alone increased in direct proportion to age. This means about 56 per cent of women above 85 lived alone.
While many elderly people like to maintain an independent life, their safety around the home is a prime concern for their families. Accidents can happen anywhere. Grabbers and Reachers are thin tools that act like hands to help pick up objects from the floor, or anywhere else. They help prevent accidents, and are particularly good at helping those suffering from arthritis grip objects.
Stairlifts
Heart ailments, knee problems, fractured hips and arthritis are some of the health problems that prevent older people from climbing stairs. This can be particularly paralyzing when they wish to climb to the first or second storey of their own homes. Stair lifts are great gadgets and have made life easier for countless seniors. There is a variety of options to consider and you’re sure to find one that meets your budget (renting is also an option) and home.
Toilet Safety Frames and Bed Rails
A simple thing like going to the bathroom can pose problems for many. A toilet safety frame makes going to the bathroom a little safer because it helps raise the seat. It also has a railing that helps the person get up or sit down safely. Similarly, bed rails can assist in getting in and out of bed, or to prevent an elderly person from falling out of bed. These can help prevent painful and life threatening falls.
Fall and Wandering Alarms
Wandering is a problem that affects six out of ten people with dementia. Those with Alzheimer’s may not remember their names or addresses. Falls are another area of concern. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one-fourth of Americans aged 65+ falls each year.
It’s not always possible for family or caregivers to be around their loved ones. An unexpected fall or wandering episode can wreak havoc. Fall and wandering alarms are excellent tools to help family and caregivers stay informed of any untoward incidents. They transmit audio, and sometimes even visual, alerts when a loved one needs help.
Mobility Aids
Arthritis, osteoporosis, hip fracture, stroke and Parkinson’s disease are among the most common causes of immobility in old age.
Remaining independent, gives senior citizens a sense of dignity. There are several mobility aids that assist mobility to different degrees. Wheelchairs, walkers, quad canes, and rollators are examples of tools that help maintain mobility.
Adult Incontinence Products
Incontinence is a sensitive issue that not everyone is comfortable talking about. Of the 25 million adult Americans suffering from some form of urinary incontinence, 75-80% of those are women.
Adult diapers, briefs and other incontinence products have come a long way in the technology they use to make using them easier and less apparent. They are now more absorbent for longer wear and can be used at night too. This means they don’t have to be changed as many times. What’s even better is that many brands offer affordable pricing.
Giving your loved ones a sense of independence and dignity is a matter of learning what tools and products are available to make life easier for them.
Companies like Wellness Briefs have invested in the right technology to make debilitating problems like incontinence manageable. Explore a range of their world-class, eco-friendly adult incontinence products.
Aging Americans account for about 15 percent (46 million) of the total population, according to a recent survey entitled ‘Aging in the United States’. The report also reveals how today’s aging Americans are facing a range of serious problems like rising obesity rates, and Alzheimer’s. In addition, everyday problems like adult incontinence and arthritis make life a struggle. While these are definitely worrying problems, the good news is that there are plenty of useful tools and products that can help your loved ones age with grace.