Friday, 2 December 2011

How Independence Relates To Aids For The Elderly

By Byron Jonas


The gadgets, furniture and services sold as aids to the elderly are designed to help make up for the loss of functioning and mobility often experienced as we age. Shopping for these goods and services is safe and easy over the internet. These items are intended to help seniors or those with disabilities to preserve their independence, which is one of the most highly prized state of existence in most minds.

The ageing process seems inevitable, and though we might go through it at different rates and different degrees of "gracefulness" there do not appear to be any exceptions. Many need to use assistive devices to offset loss of muscle mass, strength, and coordination. These devices and services can help to prevent the loss of independence, thus helping us manage these losses.

We will move to a discussion of devices and services that are often prescribed or recommended by doctors or therapists to meet your needs. These consist of devices and objects, and various housekeeping and therapeutic services.

The following items represent just a few of the devices available to help with daily activities. Grabbers help pick up items from the floor or other hard to reach places. Walkers and canes and their like help with basic mobility. Commodes and shower chairs also help with mobility and independence with toileting. There are grab rails and handles for safety around the home and in the bathroom. There are grippers and handles and knob extensions to help with keys, utensils, doorknobs, light switches, dressing and much more.

Services can be from a skilled and/or professional provider such as a housekeeper, nurse, or therapist. Semi-automatic services include things like the "panic-button" devices that seniors wear and can push in an emergency -- prompting a call to the appropriated emergency service. Telephone and computer protocols for the hearing and vision impaired are examples of other automated services that promote independence.

One of the best places to find these assistive items is on the internet. Internet shopping is an easy, safe, and even fun way to shop for these aids. Many seniors are reluctant to trust new technology, but you are encouraged to give it a try. I can guarantee you won't break the computer or the net.

All these aids for the elderly can improve the lives of seniors. The subject of independence vs. Dependence is highly charged with emotion. Independence is perhaps one of the most fiercely defended precepts in American adulthood. These gadgets can help defend that independence.




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