Most elderly people find it quite challenging to feed themselves. This is partly a result of old age where coordination becomes a little difficult for them. However, conditions like Alzheimer’s, stroke, dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and arthritis tend to increase the problem. Having weak muscles in the hand can cause challenges when it comes to movement as well as handling eating utensils.
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Having such challenges can cause someone to lose their need to eat which can further result in a complete loss of appetite. Adaptive utensils can be used by seniors to make their meals more enjoyable, which in turn will promote them to have a healthy lifestyle. If you’d like to get some adaptive utensils, look no further. This article includes 8 of the best adaptive utensils suitable for people with Arthritis, Tremors, Parkinson’s disease as well as other conditions which are muscle-wasting.
Purchasing Guide
Adaptive utensils can also be referred to as supportive or special needs utensils. The utensils are mostly useful for seniors who have muscle degenerating diseases like arthritis, Parkinson’s, and tremors. They include forks, knives, spoons as well as other flatware. Below are several advantages that come with using adaptive utensils.
Boosting Appetite
No one likes seeing a senior trying to eat their food but can’t enjoy it because of the consistent shaking of their hand which in turn leads to spilling. Having to struggle to feed can easily lead to loss of appetite which is not good for their health. Seniors require a lot of nutrients which are vital for boosting immunity which in turn keeps minor health challenges at bay.
Adaptive utensils are an invention of modern technology and are suited for people with ailments or disabilities. which can cause them not to enjoy their meals comfortably. The utensils are meant to help them meet their daily needs as well as boost one’s appetite and nutrition.
Stabilizing Hands
Adaptive utensils can also be used to support one’s hands while they eat. They are not like the usual cutlery because they include several unique features which make them more practical. Features such as curved handles are meant to aid in gripping for the motion between the hand to mouth. Grip aids are meant for easier grasp especially where there are challenges with motor skills.
Freedom to Enjoy Meals
The utensils include several options that are very useful for both young children and adults with special needs. They provide the user with more freedom during meals as well as fun moments.
Factors to consider when buying adaptive utensils
When looking for adaptive utensils, go for those that will help in reducing the challenges that come with hand tremors and spilling. There are numerous utensils available in the market that offer effectiveness; however, consider the following features:
Wide and non-slip handle
When using a spoon during mealtime, the handle becomes a major feature to consider. Seniors experiencing tremors or pain can find it hard to grip. Select a spoon that has medium weight, a large handle, and is curvy in shape.
With a paddled handle, they are offered a texturized surface that is comfortable to grip and difficult to slip from the hand. Some options come with molded tips which are good for particular needs. Some seniors experience continuous shaking; therefore, heavy handles are good for helping them reduce the tremors.
Quality
The most vital feature when looking for adaptive utensils for people who experience tremors is the quality. The best option to go for would be stainless steel because it doesn’t rust and can be cleaned easily. Also, ensure that the handle is made from high-quality material. Silicone is the perfect pick because it will offer comfort to the user and is easier to grip.
Design
When looking for adaptive cutlery, another important feature to consider is the design. Go for something with a large grip since it’s very practical and it offers a more stable and secure hold. A large grip also provides a good fit which will make it more comfortable for the user to enjoy their meal.
If you’re shopping for an elder who has an extreme case of tremors, there are cutlery that come with straps that can help enforce one’s grip at the back of the hand hence securing them. Some utensils have a swivel or curvy design which is a perfect way of ensuring that the head remains horizontal despite the tremors.
Weight
Heavy utensils are recommended for people who experience extreme tremors resulting from arthritis or Parkinson’s disease since they will provide them with a comfortable grip. Heavy straps are also a great way to make sure cutlery doesn’t slip from the hand. In terms of storage, a built-in design comes in handy since it also prevents contamination.
Ease of use
Gripping can be quite challenging for a senior with tremors, as eating is a two-way procedure. They may have difficulty trying to get food from the plate as well as putting the contents in their mouth. Some designs are suited for these functions and provide comfort too. For example, a spoon with a curved handle makes the process quite adaptive.
Dishwasher Safety
When looking for adaptive utensils, go for those that are easy to clean and maintain. It would be better if the utensils are dishwasher safe because you will be able to clean them together with your other utensils.
Best Adaptive Utensils for Elderly with Arthritis, Tremors and Parkinson’s
If you are short on time, watch this video on the best adaptive utensils for the elderly with Arthritis, Tremors, and Parkinson’s.
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#1 HENMOMU Adaptive Utensils
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Trying to grip different kinds of cutlery can be frustrating for an elder who has a muscle degenerating disease. The HENMOMU set of adaptive utensils will help in boosting their nutrition and appetite because they were designed to provide extra support and comfort. It comprises a complete set of utensils, well packed comprising utensils like spoons, forks, and knives. Apart from the lightweight design, they have large handles that help give the user a comfortable grip.
The set is more loveable because of its reasonable price which offers you value for money. The utensils are made from high-quality stainless steel meaning that they will not rust, guaranteeing their durability. Also, the knife’s design comprises a unique curve with sharp edges.
Pros
- Durable; is made from high-quality stainless-steel
- Beautiful set
- Dishwasher safe
- Have a large handle
- Perfect gift item
- Meets the typical requirements of adaptive utensils
Cons
- Not suited for people with small hands
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#2 BodyHealt Weighted Utensils for Tremors
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This brand of utensils was designed specifically for the elderly who find it difficult to grasp cutlery as a result of various health challenges. They are light in weight and the handles are long enough making them comfortable to hold on to. Unlike some of the other brands available in the market, the BodyHealt adaptive utensils are large, lightweight and sturdy.
The design allows a perfect and comfortable fit for different hand sizes. The utensils being light in weight makes them an ideal choice for people with Parkinson’s disease. This is because they are good for stabilizing the hand, especially for seniors who experience tremors while eating.
The material used in making these utensils is premium stainless steel since it doesn’t corrode. Also, stainless steel is easy to clean and is dishwasher-friendly. The UrbanRed weighted utensils are quite fancy and will also blend well with your other kitchenware.
Pros
- They are sturdy
- Have a comfortable size
- Dishwasher safe and easy to clean
- Made from good quality stainless steel
- Beautiful set
Cons
- There are reviews stating that the utensils are not heavy
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#3 GYENNO Parkinson’s Spoon for Hand Tremor
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The Gyenno brand is specifically suited for seniors with Parkinson’s disease. The spoon is designed in a way that aids in stabilizing hand tremors by up to 85 percent. There is less risk of spillage during meal times and at the same time the user will be able to enjoy their food without worrying.
The spoon’s design includes a large silicone handle which makes it easier for the user to grip on to. Also, it only weighs 130g which is a desirable weight for people recovering from surgery. The spoon also features stainless steel (high-quality), which makes it durable. The materials used to make the spoon are free from chemicals and toxins, in addition, the product is approved by the FDA.
The Gyenno Parkinson’s spoon happens to be a smart utensil that comes with an auto on-and-off feature. This is a good feature because when the spoon is not in use, it automatically switches off. The package comprises a fork and spoon.
Pros
- Approved by the FDA
- Has large handles
- Dishwasher safe
- Made from high-quality stainless steel
- Has an auto on and off function
Cons
- May be a bit expensive
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#4 BUNMO Weighted Utensils for Parkinson’s and Tremors
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The cutlery set by BUNMO comprises a fork, a knife, and two spoons. The utensils come in an attractive travel bag that can be used to carry them when you intend to eat out. This is not the ordinary dinnerware kit since it’s specifically designed for those suffering from tremors or Parkinson’s disease. The utensils will help boost the senior’s confidence by allowing them to enjoy their meal time without shaking and spilling the food. The set is made from stainless steel of high quality meaning they will last for many years because they are rust-resistant.
The utensils weigh 198g per item, which is the desirable weight for an elderly person who experiences hand tremors. In addition, they can be cleaned easily and are also dishwasher friendly.
Pros
- Weighted utensils
- Come with an attractive carrier bag
- A complete set of utensils
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Not suited for people with extreme Parkinson’s
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#5 Etereauty Adaptive Utensils Premium Silverware
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This is a set of adaptive silverware meant for elders who have weak muscles as a result of tremors, arthritis, and other conditions. The utensils have an ergonomic design which makes it easier to grip and the handles are made from non-slip rubber. The user is guaranteed to enjoy their meal which will also help boost their overall nutrition. In addition, the utensils will aid in stabilizing excessive hand movements and control tremors.
With this set of dinnerware, you are guaranteed value for money as it is priced reasonably but is also made from silicone and stainless steel of high quality. The materials used are safe for use by humans as they are FDA-approved. The utensils are dishwasher-friendly and can also be cleaned easily. The Etereauty Adaptive utensils come with an in-built stand which makes storage easier and also allows for safekeeping from contamination.
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Made from high-quality material
- Ergonomic design
- Features an inbuilt stand
Cons
- A little light for extreme hand tremors
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#6 Virgilson Adaptive Utensils
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If the adaptive utensils you are looking for are meant for someone who has a shaky hand, then consider getting a set from Pulse Brands. They are meant to help reduce the burden of the user and at the same time allow them to concentrate on their meal instead of the tremors. This is an entire kit of Parkinson’s tools comprising one fork, one knife, and two spoons.
The set is highly recommended because the utensils are constructed using incredibly big handles as well as easy-to-grip silicone. The silicone material used on the utensils is safe and approved to be used. The cutlery is made of stainless steel of high-quality and is also rustproof and long-lasting.
Pros
- Dishwasher safe
- Large handles for comfortable grip
- A set of four
- High-quality stainless steel
Cons
- Not suited for people with extreme cases of tremor
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#7 Special Supplies Adaptive utensils (Grey)
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Nobody likes having to see their loved one using a lot of effort while trying to have their meals due to the challenges they have griping spoons as a result of hand tremors. The situation becomes worse when they are having soup since it keeps spilling. Luckily, there are adaptive utensils that seniors can use to help make mealtime a lot easier.
These kinds of utensils are designed with wider handles that also happen to be non-slip. The texture of the surface is loveable plus it helps the senior to stabilize and control their hand movements. The material used to make these utensils is stainless steel of high quality which is not only dishwasher friendly, but also very durable. This is a set of elegant and unique cutlery comprising a knife, a fork, and two spoons.
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Wide handles
- Beautiful set
- High-quality stainless steel
- Texturized surface for easy gripping
Cons
- Not heavy enough
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#8 Special Supplies Adaptive Utensils (Black)
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This dinnerware set of adaptive utensils is available in an elegant black color which will blend well with your other cutlery. The set comprises four pieces, a fork, two spoons, and a knife which are best suited for an elderly person ailing from muscle-wasting diseases like Parkinson’s disease, arthritis, and tremors. Having this set of dinnerware will be great for a senior who has challenges with gripping utensils when eating meals.
The utensils have wider handles and a rough surface which make gripping easier for a senior with tremors. The set is made from quality silicone that is approved by the FDA. The stainless used to construct them is not only of high quality, it’s also durable and dishwasher friendly.
Pros
- Easy to use
- High-quality materials
- Stylish
- Dishwasher safe
- A complete set
Cons
- The handles are quite heavy
Conclusion
As you’ve seen from the article, adaptive utensils are a great invention that can be useful for both children and adults. For seniors who experience tremors as a result of arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, or other muscle-related diseases, the use of adaptive utensils is a great way for them to enjoy their food confidently. When looking for adaptive utensils, the key features to consider are design, quality, and effectiveness.
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