If your special senior uses a cane, walker, scooter, or wheelchair there are plenty of accessories available to make life easier. Cane holders allow cane users to conveniently “park” their canes at restaurant or other tables. Canes have taken on their own personality.  They now come in colors and prints- a nice upgrade for someone currently utilizing a plain style.  Just remember if you are giving a cane as a gift to make sure it is adjustable or include cutting it to the correct height as part of the gift.

Attractive, designer inspired bags for most mobility devices are available that allow the user to carry their personal items while leaving their hands free to safely navigate the mobility device.  Attachable wheelchair cup holders allow users to easily transport beverages and can be paired with fancy coffee or hot chocolate and a holiday mug for another great gift idea.

The older we get, the more dangerous the bathroom can be. Getting in and out of the tub or shower can be daunting.  Standing for any length of time is often difficult.  Grab bars, in various styles and sizes, are available and can help prevent falls.  Some are portable and easy to install – although you may want to make installing them part of the gift.  Another nice gift that improves bathroom safety is a rotating shower seat offered by Maddak and other companies. Sitting decreases the risk of falls and the rotating feature allows the user to turn with ease when moving into and out of the shower.  Wrap the shower seat with a personalized towel and a soap mitt for another useful gift.

This is just a small sampling of the many creative products available to increase independence and make life easier for your special seniors. Wheelchairs Abound Online Store: www.wheelchairsabound.com  is one source for many of the items mentioned in this article.

By Barbara Kornblau, JD, OTR/L