helping tools presentation
DESCRIPTION
TOOLS TO ASSIST WITH NONINDEPENDENT LIVINGTRANSCRIPT
Products and Devices
to
Improve everyday
Activities
Compiled for
Irish Thalidomide Survivors
Society
The aim of this presentation is to describe products and devices that
may improve the convenience and safety of everyday tasks and so
facilitate an independent lifestyle.
Please let us know of: -
- any other products or devices you think should be included,
- your experience of using any of the items included.
The appearance of a product, manufacturer or supplier in this
presentation is given as an example and should not be taken as an
endorsement of that product, manufacturer or supplier.
Alternative products and suppliers may be available for any device
shown in this presentation.
Any prices shown are current and of course subject to change.
Assist Ireland
Citizens Information Board
Ground Floor
Georges Quay House
43 Townsend St
Dublin 2
Ireland
Telephone Support (1890 277 478)
Catalogues
There are a number of companies that supply a wide range of
mobility and daily living aids.
You can telephone to request a catalogue or view it online and
can order good by post, telephone or online: -
KeepAble
Tel 08705 202122
Email [email protected]
Website: www.keepable.co.uk
Ways & Means
(Nottingham Rehab Supplies)
Tel 0845 121 8110
www.waysandmeans.co.uk
AKW Medicare
A range of products for the kitchen and bathroom (e.g. handrails,
seats, shower cubicles)
Pointon Way
Hampton Lovett
Droitwich WR9 0LR
0800 195 9077
email: [email protected]
web www.akwmedicare.co.uk
BATHROOM
Solutions
These are removable hand rails for use in bathrooms etc. Roth also supply a range of devices that attach to the suction cups e.g. clips to hold shower heads, hooks to enable items to be hung from the rail, arm armrest for computer work stations The lower image shows the extensions which make operation easier.
Fa. Roth Kohlbergstrasse 5 72213 AltensteigTEL: 07453/9381-0 FAX: 07453/9381-23 Email: [email protected] website www.roth-reha.de/html/home_english___.html
Suction Grips
Clamping Retainer
Endless position options
flexible fitting on all smooth, pore-
tight surfaces; e.g. door frames,
desks or shower cubicles,
etc
This could be your third hand.
Telescope mirror
The mobile Telescopic mirror is
perfect to use because he
is freely pivoted and extractable.
Mobile Shower Head Holder
Endless position options
The mobile, adjustable
ROTH MOBELI®
shower
head holder are an
important accessory to
promoting independence in
showers with folding
seats/stools.
Fa. Roth Kohlbergstrasse 5 72213 AltensteigTEL: 07453/9381-0 FAX: 07453/9381-23 Email: [email protected] website www.roth-reha.de/html/home_english___.html
Body washer
The shape of the body washer
makes effective use of the
power of the shoulders, arms
and hands. The ergonomic
design makes it easier to get
at all parts of the body. It has a
replaceable wash cloth in a
special material that washes
effectively without absorbing
water. This means the washer
stays light and balanced even
when wet
Backwasher
The design of the back washer
makes it possible to reach all
over the back without straining
the hands, arms or shoulders.
The replaceable wash cloth
washes effectively without
absorbing water. The washer
stays light and balanced even
when wet.
Hair brush/ hair washer
There are two lengths of the
Beauty hairbrush. They are curved
to follow the shape of the head.
This means that the handle can be
held close to the body without
losing power or reach.
The hair washer is used instead of
the fingers to apply shampoo and
massage the scalp. The shaft and
handle are of the same design as
the body washer, making it easier
for the user to reach the head
without putting strain on the
hands, shoulders or arms.
Comb
There are two lengths of the
Beauty comb. They are curved to
follow the shape of the head. This
means that the handle can be held
close to the body without losing
power or reach.
Balder
24 Murrell Green Business Park
London Road Hook Hampshire RG27
9GR
Tel: +44 01256 767181 Fax: +44 01256
768887 Website: www.balder.co.uk
Email: [email protected]
Nail files are usually impossible
for short arms or stiff fingers to
manage. The nail file holder rests
securely in the whole hand and
can bridge the gap between hands
it is therefore easy to use. The
disposable file is also easy to
replace.
The Multi Purpose Grip may also
be used when shaving or brushing
your teeth.
Beauty Multi Purpose Grip
http://www.etac.com/en/etaccomexp/Start-Page/Products/Small-Aids-for-Daily-Living/Beauty-body-care-products/Multi-Purpose-Grip/
Tap turners that can be used on
crosshead and crystal taps. The
soft textured handles provide a
comfortable and secure grip
whilst in use. There is no
installation required due to the
screw handle that tightens the
grip on the tap. Colour coded so
that those with limited vision can
identify the required tap. Length
180mm (71/5"). Width 70mm
(23/4"). Height 45mm (13/4").
Tap turners
Tap turners
These moulded turners hook over
the top of a X type tap, to make it
easy to turn. They are supplied as
a Red and Blue pair for hot and
cold taps. Length 140mm (51/2").
Weight 65g.
This device clamps around the
top of cylindrical tap tops, and
provides the leverage to turn
them easily. The barrel of the
handle is spring loaded to allow
the jaws to clamp down on the
tap, which is gripped by soft
non-slip rubber linings in the
jaws. The jaws can also be
locked in position. The handle is
comfortable and easy to grip.
For use with taps up to 60mm
(21/2") in diameter. Closed
length 190mm (71/2"). Weight
112g
Tap turners
Homecraft Rolyan Nunn Brook Road Huthwaite Sutton in Ashfield Nottingham NG17 2HU UK Customer Services 08702 423 305 www.homecraft-rolyan.com
ORAL B HUMMING BIRD
Excellent gadget for flossing with
replaceable heads.
+ Gentle vibrations massage your gums
+ Choice of two interchangeable
attachments - flosser and soft dental
pick
+ Single-use refill attachments
+ Designed to reach between your
teeth and below your gum line to
remove plaque
+ Hummingbird reaches areas your
toothbrush can’t
+ Handy 4-inch tall compact design fits
in the palm of your hand
+ Easy and convenient size lets you
floss with one hand
+ Powered by one AAA battery
(included)
http://www.oralb.com/products/oral-b-triumph-heads.aspx
THE CLOSOMAT- PALMA - VITA
The Clos-o-Mat Palma Vita automatic WC
shower toilet provides flushing, washing and
warm air drying from one simple operation.
It is user-friendly for people who have
restricted use of their hands. By reducing
hand contact, it also provides improved
hygiene for all users.
Simultaneous flushing and washing (a unique
feature).
Improved personal hygiene – cleaning with
water not paper.
Can be used at all times as a conventional
WC.
Combines functions of a WC and bidet with
addition of drying air.
UK made in a dedicated plant.
Clos-o-Mat’s unique one touch
system allows the user to
benefit from the toilet’s
automatic functions by just
pressing and releasing the flush.
Wash time adjustable to client
needs.
http://www.clos-o-mat.com/downloads/lima_lift_animation.mov
Lima Lift Shower Toilet
The Lima Lift Shower Toilet is a
height-adjustable toilet with
integrated folding armrests and
built-in washing and drying
functions.
The height adjustment of the toilet
is made through a handheld
remote control.
The elbow pad when pressed
flushes the toilet. When held it
flushes and washes like a bidet,
and on release of the pad, warm
air-drying starts.
http://www.careandassist.com/
Aqua Joy Bath lifts
http://www.mobilitysmart.cc/bath-lifts/portable-bath-lifts-c-87_121.html
Portable Bath lifts
Aqua Joy Bath lifts
Two piece lightweight reclining bath lift
Allows the client to recline in the bath like they used to
Separates easily into two compact sections
No awkward locks or buttons to press, backrest simply folds forward
to detach
Compact design saves storage space and allows the Bath lift to be
carried against the body for an unobstructed view
Fits almost any style of bath - even corner baths
Suitable for deep baths - maximum seat height 460mm
Suitable for shallow baths - minimum seat height 80mm
Maximises legroom In the bathroom
Bath lift seat locates as for back in the bath as possible
Recline angle makes full use of all the bath space
Bariatric weight limit as standard
Maximum weight limit 170kg (26.5 Stone)
Torkel toilet paper tongs
Clean the product with a solvent-
free detergent which has a pH of
6-9, or with a 70% disinfectant
solution.
Can be decontaminated at max.
85°C if so required.
1) Tear off a length of
toilet paper (approx. 40
cm). Open the tongs by
squeezing the handle.
Thread the paper
between the tongs.
2) Roll the toilet paper
loosely so that it
covers the end of the
tongs.
3) Put the tongs
between the legs and
wipe.
4) Open the tongs and
shake the used toilet
paper into the toilet.
Can also be clamped to
permanent fixture.
This is how easy it is to use Torkel toilet paper
tongs:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5x6sdZ_dgTg
This ultra modern bath lift takes
the Bellavita away from an austere
and clinical look and is more in
keeping with today's
requirements.
Features
The lightest bath lift on the market at only
9.3kg
At 6cm minimum height the Bellavita is the
lowest bath lift available
Backrest reclines to a market leading 50º
Reaches a record seat height of 48cm
Lifetime guarantee on frame & motor
Drive Bath Lift - New
http://www.mobilitysmart.cc/bath-lifts/portable-bath-lifts/endres-bellavita-bathlift-3-p-9967.html
Magiplug® Bath Plug & Kitchen Sink Plug
Available as either a bath or kitchen sink plug, the Magiplug® is
a unique device the reduces the risk of scalding and flooding. A
Magi plug's® ingenious pressure release mechanism allows a
bath or a sink be filled to a specific level and then if left
unattended, releases excess water to prevent overflow. Prevents
the damage and expense caused by flooding your bathroom or
kitchen. The heat sensitive pad on the plug changes colour
when the water temperature reaches 36°C to alert the user
that the water may be too hot, reducing the risk of scalding.
http://www.mobilitysmart.cc/home-garden-aids/home-accessories/magiplug%C2%AE-bath-plug-kitchen-sink-plug-2-p-10456.html
Soapy Soles
Soapy Soles is designed to aid
individuals who have difficulty
with balance, bending or reaching
when bathing and showering.
The unit securely attaches to the
floor of the bath or shower with
suction cups and features a pad
with many tiny fingers on which to
rub the foot back and forth.
It is suitable for use with any
liquid soap and provides a gentle
massage and thorough wash for
the feet.
http://www.assistireland.ie/eng/Suppliers/Murray's_Medical_Equipment.html
KITCHEN
Solutions
Relieve cheese slicer
Gives extra power and precision
This cheese slicer allows people
with impaired strength in their
hands and arms to slice cheese.
The Relieve cheese slicer is
particularly suitable for people
with shorter arms, as the handle
permits a stable grip.
The handle has rounded edges and
it is close to the slicing blade so
that less force has to be used. The
slicing blade is “wavy” so that the
cheese comes free of the blade
with ease.
Buckingham Cool hand
The Buckingham Cool hand is a device for
carrying warm plates.
The device spreads the weight of the
plate around the whole hand and grips to
the rim of the plate.
The device can be used to carry plates
from the microwave but not a
conventional oven due to the heat
produced. The device can be cleaned in a
dishwasher.
http://www.beechfieldhealthcare.ie/
http://www.murrays.ie/
Gordon Peeler and Clamp
This device is designed to
facilitate one-handed peeling.
It clamps onto the edge of a table
or worktop with a sliding
mechanism.
The swivelling peeling blade is set
into the top of the device.
The user holds the vegetable and
pushes it across the blade to peel
it.
The peelings drop behind the
peeler onto a plate for easy
disposal.
Mini Chopper
This food preparation machine can
be used to chop and mince food.
The device features an easy-to-
handle lid, a chopping blade and a
push-button control. This machine
is mains-operated and is
dishwasher safe.
Tel: (353) 01 276 2770http://www.assistireland.ie/eng/Suppliers/Orthocare_Ltd.html
Fix preparation board
Gives extra power and precision
when preparing food.
With the Fix preparation board,
tasks such as grating, cutting,
whisking and peeling can be
carried out even with weak hands
or one hand function.
The preparation board is a good
aid for people who have difficulty
managing some tasks using just
one hand, or one hand at a time, or
weakness in both hands.
The clamp means it can easily grip
and adapt to left- or right-handed
use. The board sits firmly on four
anti-slip feet.
Suction pads are included for
fitting if necessary.
Dishwasher-safe
http://www.etac.com/en/etaccomexp/Start-Page/Products/Small-Aids-for-Daily-Living/Household/Fix-preparation-board/
Preparation Board
Ring Pull Can Opener
This device removes ring pull lids
from pressure sealed tins and
containers.
The contoured plastic handle with
rubber grasp section provides grip
and leverage when opening cans.
To use, slide the device over the
ring pull until it locks into place.
Then lever the opener upright to
break the seal and remove the lid.
Push the button at the front of
the tin opener to release the lid.
This device may be helpful for
individuals with arthritis, weak
wrists or limited grasping ability.
http://www.assistireland.ie/eng/Suppliers/Orthocare_Ltd.html
Safety Gas Lighter
This refillable gas lighter removes
the need for matches and the risks
associated with them.
The long shaft ensures a safe
distance from the gas fires or
stoves.
http://www.mobilitysmart.cc/home-garden-aids/daily-living-aids/safety-gas-lighter-p-497.html
This range of Easy-Grip Kitchen
Utensils have comfortable, contoured
handles with a non-slip "soft-feel"
finish, giving a firm grip in either hand.
The handle is angled at 90° .
The utensil is lightweight and all metal
parts are made from stainless steel.
All items within the range are
dishwasher safe. Overall Length 195
mm
Carving Fork
PROMEDICS ABLE 2 CARE
TEL: 0845 330 2220
Magnetic Toast Tongs
Much better than burnt fingertips,
our bamboo tongs are the safest
way to retrieve your toast from the
toaster.
when it’s time to make another
round, you’ll know exactly where
they are – being magnetic, you can
keep them to hand by attaching
them to the toaster whenever
you’re not using them.
http://www.lakeland.co.uk/magnetic-toast-tongs/F/keyword/tongs/product/14236
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=znLs6-vstDs
This wall-mounted oven has a
motorised base which lowers at
the touch of a button. So access
for getting food in and out should
be easier than a conventional
design.
Additional racks/shelves are
available.
It is claimed to be more efficient
because the hot air is retained
better when you open the oven
It also has the self cleaning
feature. You push the button and
heat gets so intense, all the post
cooking residue turns to ashes
and can be simply wiped off with a
cloth or paper towel.
It is costly however (around
£1200)
Siemens
LiftMatic
Oven
http://www.siemens-home.com/ie/HB76P570E.html
MISULANOUS
Solutions
Easy Snip Motorised Scissors
These motorised scissors eliminate the
need for the repetitive hand action
required when using standard scissors.
This device may be helpful for individuals
with limited handgrip.
The on/off button at the top of the handle
controls the scissors.
When the button is pressed, the blades
vibrate. The user pushes the device in the
required direction and the blades cut
through the paper or plastic. When the
button is released, the cutting action
stops.
This battery-powered device can cut
through multiple sheets of paper, card and
most plastics. The wide plastic handle is
comfortable and easy to grip.
http://www.assistireland.ie/eng/Products_Directory/Recreation_Leisure_Sports/Scissors/Easy_Snip_Motorised_Scissors.html
Mounted Table Top Scissors
This device has scissors mounted
on a plastic base, with rubber non-
slip feet. The scissors are
operated by depressing the "t"
shaped handle and the spring will
automatically reopen the blades
once the pressure is released
http://www.mobilitysmart.cc/home-garden-aids/scissors/mounted-table-top-scissors-2-p-10396.html
Lite Touch Pen
The Lite touch pen requires almost no
pressure to write. The pens built-up, textured
surface makes it easier to hold than standard
size pens.
This ball point pen with lightweight plastic
case is especially suitable for arthritics and
rheumatics. The built-up contoured shape is
easy to grip, and virtually no pressure is
required when writing.
It can be weighted with sand etc.
Parker replacement refills are available at any
good stationers.
Dimensions:
Length: 15.5cmWeight: 24gDiameter 18mm (3/4")
http://www.mobilitysmart.cc/home-garden-aids/office-aids/writing-aids/lite-touch-rheumatic-pen-p-13626.html
Long handled Scissors
These long reach scissors with
ergonomically designed handles
are designed to give a longer
reach to minimise stretching.
PRICE: £10.56 (£8.99)
This device consists of a standard
nail clipper attached to a plastic
base.
The attached base means the user
only has to apply force to one side
of the clippers, which may be
helpful for individuals with
decreased finger dexterity , weak
grasp or foot use.
The base has two suction cup feet
that firmly attach to surfaces
providing stability and preventing
the board from slipping during use.
Nail Clipper Board
http://www.assistireland.ie/eng/Suppliers/Orthocare_Ltd.html
Accufit 3400 Door Closer
The Accufit 3400 Door Closer attaches
to the top of the door and
automatically closes it once open.
It features an adjustable delay which
allows for more time once the door is
open before it begins to close.
It is available in various finishes and a
choice of covers.
http://www.assistireland.ie/eng/Suppliers/Disability_Needs_Ltd.html
Telescopic back scratcher
KLEENEZE CATALOGUE
Leveron Door Knob Turner
This device attaches to most round door
knobs to give a lever action door handle
and can be useful at home or away.
It may be helpful for anyone who has
arthritis, weak hands or limited grasp.
The easy-grip handle is made of a
lightweight, thermoplastic that is warm
to touch.
This device attaches to the door knob
with two adjustable gaskets that can be
tightened or loosened to fit a variety of
doorknob shapes.
The device is supplied with an installation
wrench.http://www.assistireland.ie/eng/Suppliers/Orthocare_Ltd.html
TRIO (Magnetic jar opener )
Magnetic Jar opener from Sweden.
Simply press down on both ends of this
device with hands or foot and turn in
the direction of the arrow.
Only currently available via the Thalidomide Trust
Email : [email protected]
Phone: 01480 474074
DRESSING
Solutions
Aktiv reacher with hook
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mEFA_XJ1l30&feature=player_embedded#!
The jaws can
be set to two
positions.
All models
have a magnet
in the handle
to help you
pick up
metallic
objects.
The handle is
angled to
utilize the
strength in the
hand and
provide an
effective grip.
This reacher is designed with an
90° angled handle and an
adjustable forearm support which
enables use for persons with very
limited lifting ability and weak
hands.
The jaws are provided with hooks
for the user to pull or push things
away.
The jaws of the reacher can be set
in two positions, which means that
the reacher can be used both
horizontally and vertically without
having to turn the arm.
Aktiv reacher with power grip and hook
Aktiv reacher with hook
The hook makes this reacher
specifically suitable for dressing.
Steel telescoping dressing stick
RSLSTEEPER,
Unit 7
Hunslet Trading Estate
Severn Road
Leeds
LS10 1BL
Tel: 0870 2404133
Fax : 0870 240 4779
Steel telescopic dressing
appliance B05553 costs £208.31
Additional bite tab SB12202
costs £43.52
Butler buttoner
The Butler buttoners are
available with two different
grips.
The one with a round grip can
also be used for both buttons
and zippers.
The model with a long handle
can be used for all types of
buttons, even jeans
metal buttons.
This small device helps in button fastening.
Two types available wood and plastic.
Type: Wood: Length: 16cm Weight: 11g
Plastic: Length: 16.6cm Weight: 35g
http://www.mobilitysmart.cc/comfort-dressing/dressing-aids/zip-grip-p-14764.html
Button Hook / Zipper
Puller
This small device assists in button
and zip fastening. It incorporates a
stainless steel shaped hook at one
end and a "C" hook at the other.
Two types available wood and
plastic.
Type:
Wood: Length: 20.5cm Weight: 25g
Plastic: Length: 21cm Weight: 40g
http://www.mobilitysmart.cc/comfort-dressing/dressing-aids/zip-grip-p-14764.html
http://www.mobilitysmart.cc/comfo
rt-dressing/dressing-aids/bra-
angel-p-7957.html
Designed by an Occupational Therapist, to assist women who find it
difficult to bring both ends of a brassiere together when dressing.
Simple to use
One size fits all
Light, durable and latex free
Can be used with most brassiere types
Telescopic action adjusts easily for size and shortens it for storage
and travelling
Bra Angel
Getting dressed with the help of a
chair.
Putting on clothes on the upper
body can be made easier if an
kitchen chair can be used like a
clothes hanger.
The dresser gets into his clothes
by wriggling into a coat or
cardigan.
A simple method for a person with
short arms or no arms.
Getting dressed with the help of a chair.
A clever pocket for money and keys. Make a cut in the
trouser material. Sew in a lining pocket into the inside of
the trouser leg. Use either a zip or Velcro to close the
pocket with. Remember to sew the pocket onto the left
leg for a right-footed person and the other way round for
a left-footed person.
Trouser pockets
Leather Tab Zip Pullers
These leather tab zip pullers will
make life so much easier; they will
fit 95% of zips because of the thin
wire clasp.
They are packed in 5's with three
black and two brown pullers.
http://www.mobilitysmart.cc/comfort-dressing/dressing-aids/zip-grip-p-14764.html
The Zip Grip is ideal for persons
who have difficulty grasping and
pulling small zipper tabs.
Just insert the peg of the Zip Grip
through the hole in a standard
zipper, fold in half and press to
snap shut.
Ring diameter measures 25mm
(1").
Sold in package of 6.
Zip Grip
http://www.mobilitysmart.cc/comfort-dressing/dressing-aids/zip-grip-p-14764.html
Shoe Remover
Remove shoes effortlessly with the Shoe Remover. This
product is ideal for persons with a limited range of motion or
those who have difficulty bending over. Made of sturdy
plastic. Not suitable for clients who have had total hip
replacements or restricted hip abduction. Colour may vary.
http://www.mobilitysmart.cc/comfort-dressing/sock-stocking-aids/shoe-remover-p-15039.html
Elastic Shoelaces
These elastic laces are for persons who find reaching or tying
laces difficult. Colour in Brown, Black & White (sold in set of 3)
Colour & Sizes: Round Style
Brown - 24" or 32"
Black - 24" or 32"
White - 24" or 32"
Flat Style Elastic Shoe laces
Coiler Elastic
http://www.mobilitysmart.cc/comfort-dressing/laces-lace-locks/coiler-elastic-shoelaces-4-p-16159.html
These elastic laces have
collapsible knots that allow you to
achieve a custom fit between each
eyelet.
http://www.xtenex.fr/US/index_EN.html
Lace-lock for shoelaces
The shoelace-lock, "Lazylock" locks
shoelaces into place so they don´t
loosen, plus they can then be easily
opened.
Perfect for children that are in too
much of a hurry to tie their shoes,
also for handicapped people that
have trouble whit shoe-tieing. , "
This gadget suctions temporarily
on to a smooth wood door or tiled
wall with a flick of the middle
switch and helps with light weight
dressing.
The hook can be used as a lever
positioned in the horizontal or
vertical position for both dressing
and undressing.
It can travel with you in a large
handbag.
Large and small dressing hook
Currently only available via the Thalidomide Trust.
Enquiries :
Email: [email protected]
PHONE: 01480 474074