Living with Parkinson’s can make even the most basic tasks challenging to accomplish. As you or your loved one adjusts to a Parkinson’s diagnosis, it’s important to outfit your home with care products that can facilitate daily activities. These types of products can allow your loved one to maintain dignity and independence as much as possible and delay moving into senior living. Here are some key care products to keep in mind.
Types of Products That Support Parkinson’s Care
Let’s go through some types of products that can boost quality of life with Parkinson’s on a daily basis.
1. Bathing & Grooming Aids
- Bath and shower seat
- Tub transfer seat
- Raised toilet seat
- Hand-held urinal
- Grab rails
- Scrub brushes
- No-slip mats
- Shower slippers
The risk of falls in the shower or on the toilet is high, which is why you should prepare the bathroom with safety measures such as grab rails and no-slip mats.
2. Dressing Aids
- Zipper or button aid
- Slip-on shoes
- Heel lifts
- Sock aid
- Magnetic buttons
- Velco straps
- Silk pajamas
Replace tricky buttons or zippers with easy-open materials such as velcro. You might also try sock and shoe aids, as well as comforting easy-roll fabrics such as silk.
3. Mobility Aids
- Walking sticks, canes or frames
- Trekking poles
- Swivel seat
- Lift chairs
- Grab rails
- Gait belt
- Seated exerciser
- Safety alarms
- Motorized scooters
- Wheelchair
It’s important to stay active with Parkinson’s. Aids such as walking sticks, gait belts and more can ensure your loved one remains safe while getting around.
4. Bedroom Equipment
- Adjustable bed
- Bed rails
- Grab bars
- Hoists
- Wedge pillow
- Silk sheets
- Sound therapy system
Create a sleep sanctuary by adding safety features such as bed rails, grab bars and hoists. Simple items such as wedge pillows and silk sheets can also make a difference.
5. Dining Aids
- Weighted utensils
- No-slip plates and bowls
- Sip cups
- Plate guards
- Adult bibs
- Kettle tippers
Adapted utensils, plates, cups and more should be a priority to make dining as easy as possible. Weighted utensils and cups are especially helpful.
6. Medication Reminders & Aids
- Electric medication dispenser
- Weekly pill box
- Reminder clock
- Pill cutters
Medication aids automate the process of taking pills, so you don’t have to use up valuable mental space.
7. Writing Aids
- Weights for pens/pencils
- Large grip pens
- Weighted writing glove
Parkinson’s patients often experience impaired dexterity, which is why weighted pens or gloves can better support writing.
8. Technology & Entertainment Aids
- Smartwatch or fitness tracker
- Larger keyboard
- E-reader set with large print
- Adjustable TV tray
Engaging with technology and entertainment can be Parkinson’s-friendly with large-font keywords, ebooks and more.
Enhance Daily Care With Parkinson’s Products
Parkinson’s can be a difficult adjustment for families, but with the right preparation and products, individuals can continue their daily routines without major interruptions. Remember to research the right products for your loved one in advance.
Related Link: Parkinson’s Disease Caregiver Resources