Meal preparation and cooking

Difficulties in the kitchen include:

• Opening containers and packages
• Cutting and slicing
• Weighing and measuring
• Mashing, peeling and grating
• Preparing drinks
• Cooking or heating food
• Transferring food to dining room

Equipment to improve independence and safety includes:

• Kettle tippers
• Water dispensers
• Can openers
• Jar and bottle openers
• Chopping, slicing, peeling and cutting devices
• Mashers, grinders, graters
• Non slip mats and grip aids
• Kitchen trolleys and tray walkers
• Cooking appliances

Eating and drinking

There is a wide range of specialised cutlery, crockery and drinking aids as well as equipment available to adapt standard items. They are useful for a range of abilities and age ranges.

Independent eating and drinking can be difficult due to poor muscle control, reduced grip strength, tremor, use of one hand only, restricted movement and upper limb weakness.

Equipment to improve independence when eating and drinking includes:

• Cutlery
  • Built-up handles
  • Angled and bendable cutlery
  • Grips / cuffs / holders
  • Weighted cutlery
  • Combination cutlery
  • Feeding systems
• Crockery
  • High sided plates / bowls
  • Partitioned plates / bowls
  • Plate / bowl guards
  • Non slip plates / bowls
  • Non slip mats
• Drinking
  • Cups and mugs with handles and grips
  • Cup and mug holders
  • Outward lip or flanged mugs
  • Straws and hands free drinking

Kitchen fittings and fixtures

There are a wide variety of whitegoods and large appliances and storage, sinks, taps and work surfaces available for a variety of abilities. It is strongly recommended that a full assessment of your abilities and needs is completed to find the best solution for you before purchasing.

Laundry and household cleaning

There are a wide variety of standardised cleaning equipment that provide a practical way for you to clean your floors and wash, dry and iron your clothes and linen. Remember to consider your energy levels. Would you have the energy to do other activities if someone was helping you do these tasks?