Easily minimize discomfort at mealtime with adaptive dinnerware and with other various well-designed utensils to help seniors eat. Our thoughtful roundup of utensils for the elderly will support aging adults coping with a decline in a range of motion, waning strength, and those affected by memory loss.Â
Adaptive Utensils
Hand tremors, shakes or weakness can make everyday tasks almost impossible. Seniors affected by conditions such as stroke, Alzheimer’s, dementia, and tremors often have difficulty using utensils and eating independently. Adaptive utensils can make mealtime both easier and more enjoyable.
This 4-piece-set from BunMo includes a tablespoon, teaspoon, rocker knife and fork. We love that the set comes with a carrying bag for easy portability.
Pros
- Easy-to-grip handles
- Come with a carrying bag for easy portability
- The knife comes with serrated edge
Cons
- Utensil handles could be too bulky for some
Key Features
- 4-piece-set
- Textured non-slip handles
- Dishwasher safe
- Lightweight
- Sharp, curved kitchen knife
Specifications
- Brand: BunMo
- Set includes tablespoon, teaspoon, rocker knife, and fork.
- Material: Rustproof, stainless steel
1. Special Supplies Adaptive Utensils
Light yet durable, these easy to hold adaptive utensils by Special Supplies Store will help aging adults losing strength and the ability to grip utensils regain their confidence once again at mealtime. This non-weighted, non-slip four-piece set comes with a fork, knife, dinner spoon, and soup spoon for all of your mealtime needs.
Additionally, the wide grip handles have unique textured grips to improve dexterity and control, ideal for those with hand tremors, Parkinson’s, or arthritis. Caregivers and aging adults alike will appreciate that this supportive stainless steel set is dishwasher safe and comes in several pleasing colors.
2. EazyHold Silicone Adaptive Aid
EazyHold Silicone Adaptive Aid creates positive independence for individuals with limited hand mobility, decreased muscle strength, Cerebral Palsy, and those who’ve suffered from a stroke. EazyHold is uniquely versatile, applied to various utensils in the home, not just limited to dinnerware. EazyHold can support aging adults to maintain a grasp while writing, eating, and grooming. This incredible life-changing product comes in several colors and multiple sizes for optimal comfort.
3. Homecraft Queens Angled Cutlery
Although similar to other adaptive utensils, with easy to grip, wide handles, the Homecraft Queens Angled Cutlery also features an ergonomic angled design. Seniors that find it challenging to position their cutlery will discover that this angled design is much more supportive for their mealtime needs.
Homecraft Queens Angled Cutlery offers both left and right-handed angled options. However, since Homecraft Queens does not provide a set, utensils such as a spoon and fork must be purchased separately.
4. Plastic Plate Guard
With the Plastic Plate Guard from North Coast Medical, there is no need to purchase expensive new plates that reduce spillage. Simply clip the plate guard onto a traditional plate, and enjoy uncomplicated, independent eating. Ideal for those with limited hand mobility. The Plate Guard is microwavable and dishwasher safe.
5. Redware Dining Set for Alzheimer’s Patients
Individuals who have Alzheimer’s Disease may experience significant impairments that reduce their cognitive abilities and affect their weight. A study by Boston University suggested that weight loss may be due to a patient’s inability to distinguish contrast between colors.
These difficulties in color translate to mealtime by a patient’s failure to recognize light-colored food and liquids when served on light-colored dinnerware. Boston University researchers concluded that patients who participated in the study increased their food intake by 24% and fluids by 84% when served meals on bright red dinnerware.
The Deluxe 5-Piece Redware Dining Set from the MABIS DMI Healthcare Store offers a partitioned dish, lipped plate, drinking cup, and an easy-to-grip fork and spoon. All pieces come in bright red which research has shown to increase eating and drinking in Alzheimer’s patients.
