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Top 10 Supplies for Aging In Place
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items This list is to help families with aging loved ones find the right supplies to safely keep them in the spot they call home. from gloves to transfer belts, this list pulls together the critical items to get things started. It can be dauting taking care of a family member or organizing care. My hope is this list helps you kick start and shows your versions of common items that work well… hopefully taking some of the guess work out. All of this comes from my experience owning an In Home Caregiving agency called Providential Home Care in the Portland, Oregon area. I hope you all find this helpful! Just remember, YOU can do this, it will be hard, and give yourself some grace…. you get points for being the person that stepped up! Be kind to yourself - Have more questions about care? Check out our website: Providential Home Care - phcoregon.com
Nitrile gloves are considered the best option for at home use. They are very durable, high chemical/puncture resistance, and are hypoallergenic. I always recommend having a box of these around
Nitrile Gloves
A blood pressure monitor is always good to have around. One I really like is the CVS Series upper arm monitor. I like this one because it is compact, easy to use, and simple to read.
Blood Pressure Monitor
A Gait belt is a fantastic tool for when a loved one starts experiencing mobility issues. This allows a trained caregiver to assist with transfering in a way that is safe both for the loved one and the person providing assistance. Remember, the person most at risk of injury is the CAREGIVER. Tools like these help us keep everyone safe. I like this model specifcially due to its simplicity
Gait Belt
This one seems simple, but it is commonly forgotten. Especially when personal care (bathing/using restroom) is involved in care, it is important to reduce the spreading of germs. Keeping hand sanitizer on hand will keep you well prepared
Hand Sanitizer
I really like this suction grab bar from home depot. It is able to carry a max load of 250 lbs, is suction (so it won't mess up your walls), and most importantly, it has a light that lets you know if it is fully sealed in place. Yes, in an ideal world we all have built in grab bars that are anchored in, however in practicality (and affordability for most families) this is a good option
Grab Bars
Falls are the leading cause to decline for our seniors. Bathrooms are particularly dangerous because of tight space and the use of water. Help prevent falls by making sure all walking surfaces are slip resistant.
Non Slip Bath Mats
Rugs are a very interesting topic. Yes, in theory your should ask your loved one to remove all their rugs around the house (living room, entry, etc.). The reality is, many people love their rugs and are not willing to part with them. The realist in me says to meet in the middle. If removing the rugs is a non starter, consider using a non slip rug tape. This will not only keep the rugs in place, but reduce its ability to catch if your loved one is shuffling around or using a walker. The goal here is to prevent falls and this is one of the best ways to do it if they have no interest in getting rid of their rugs.
Non Slip Rug Tape
When dealing with incontinence, I highly recommend keeping around disposable adult wet wipes. I like these because they are hypoallergenic and are paraben, alcohol, and phenoxyethanol free. They are a good item to keep around because when you need them… you really need them!
Adult Wet Wipes for Incontinence
Many seniors struggle with staying hydrated. Often time, glasses of water are knocked over and it can be a trek to get to the kitchen for a new one. I really like this non spill cup because it funtionally works, but asthetically looks like something other adults would use. Often times we are so focused on practicality that we forget about dignity. A senior does not want a cup that looks like a childs cup, they are the same as you and me. I encourage you to look at items when you purchase them and ask yourself, would I buy this for myself if I needed it.
Meijer
Briefs are a big part of the incontinence game plan. They help keep you and your surrounding areas clean and safe. They also play a big roll in keeping our seniors feeling confident. Depends is a great brand with a good reputation for quality and durability.
Adult Briefs