Improving Independence with Kitchen Aids

As healthcare professionals, occupational therapists and physiotherapists play a crucial role in improving the quality of life for our clients or loved ones living with disabilities.

One of the key areas where independence can be significantly enhanced is in the kitchen. By incorporating adaptive kitchen aids, we can help our clients perform everyday tasks with greater ease and safety. In this article, we will explore some of GMobility’s most sought-after essential kitchen aids that can make a substantial difference to your client’s participation in the kitchen.

Uccello Tipping Kettles

Tipping kettles are an excellent solution for individuals with limited strength or dexterity. These kettles are designed to pivot on a base, allowing users to pour hot water without having to physically lift the kettle. This reduces the risk of spills and burns, providing a safer way to make hot beverages. For clients with arthritis, tremors, or general weakness, tipping kettles can be a game-changer in maintaining their ability to prepare drinks independently.

Adaptive Knives

Adaptive knives are specially designed to accommodate various grip styles and hand strengths. They often feature ergonomic handles, angled blades, and non-slip grips to make cutting easier and safer for individuals with limited hand function. By recommending adaptive knives, you can help clients with compromised grip strength to maintain their ability to prepare meals, promoting both independence and confidence in the kitchen.

Dycem Pads

Dycem pads are non-slip mats that provide a stable surface for various kitchen activities. These pads are particularly useful for individuals who have difficulty keeping items steady while cutting, mixing, or opening containers. By placing a Dycem pad under a cutting board, bowl, or plate, you can prevent slippage and make food preparation more manageable for clients with tremors, weakness, or coordination issues. Dycem pads can also be used to stabilise other household items, enhancing overall safety and accessibility.

One Touch Electric Openers

Our range of electric openers are versatile tools that can assist with opening jars, cans, and bottles, which are often challenging for individuals with limited hand strength or dexterity.

The One Touch set requires minimal effort and can significantly reduce stress on hands and wrists. With the touch of a button, clients with arthritis, limited grip strength, or upper limb disabilities can restore their ability to access food and beverages independently.

Homecraft Kitchen Workstation

The Homecraft Kitchen Workstation can be a helpful tool for clients who only have one hand. The kitchen station includes suction cup feet to secure in place on countertops and useful tools such as a grater, slicer, L-shaped corner, and removeable clamp, all designed with one-handed users in mind.

How to Use Kitchen Aids Effectively

• Demonstration and Training: Collect the items from one of our GMobility showrooms to dry-trial with your clients. Show clients how to use each kitchen aid effectively and safely. Provide hands-on training to ensure they are comfortable and confident with the new tools.
• Customised Solutions: Tailor recommendations to each client’s unique needs. What works for one individual may not be suitable for another, so it’s important to provide personalised solutions. If you would like any additional advice, our Customer Service Team and Assistive Technology Specialists are both great sources of knowledge.
• Ongoing Support: Check in with clients regularly to assess the effectiveness of the kitchen aids and make any necessary adjustments. Continuous support can help address any challenges and ensure long-term success.

All our daily living items are available for a dry trial. If you are an occupational therapist or physiotherapist and would like to trial any of these items, please contact the team here or on 1300 004 662 and let us know what items you would like and when you’d like to collect them!