Try: #set automatic timers to come on thirty to sixty minutes prior to dusk so lamps will already be lit when dusk arrives #set automatic timers to switch lamps off after the cr goes to bed and has had time to fall asleep Materials: Table lamps automatic timers for lamps Categories: Cognitive Intellectual, Emotional Psychological, […]
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A Care recipient (cr) may become disoriented in a new environment such as a hospital room
Try: #install a clock a large-print calendar and a message board in the cr’s new space or room within view of the cr #on the message board write the cr’s name location new home address or hospital and room number and the date monday october 15 2009 for example change the date daily #review with […]
Using built-up silverware can allow a Care recipient (cr) stay independent at mealtimes as long as possible
Try: Built-up silverware is designed for cr’s who have trouble holding the smaller handles of regular silverware it features thick handles that are easier for many people to grasp adaptive silverware is available at many medical supply stores or can be ordered from medical supply catalogs Materials: Built-up silverware Categories: Personal, Mobility, Mobile, Touch, So-So […]
A Care recipient (cr) with poor vision or limited strength may have trouble opening typical pill bottles
Try: #talk to the cr cr’s pharmacist about the problem the cr is having opening pill bottles and ask if the pharmacy can put the cr cr’s medication in a bottle that will better suit the cr cr’s needs #if necessary or possible the caregiver can put the cr’s medications into a pillbox that is […]
A Care recipient (cr) with physical or cognitive limitations may have difficulty measuring coffee tea or water and trouble placing the filters in the basket
Try: Cut the steps necessary to brew tea or coffee by using labor-saving devices a cr may find it easier to simply fit a packet into a holder and pour water into the back of the machine than to do all the steps related to measuring and moving coffee from a can to a filter […]
A Care recipient (cr) has trouble reaching the lever on a manual wheelchair to set or release the brakes
Try: #slip the pvc pipes over each handle that releases the brakes if necessary remove any cushioning from the brake handle that prevents the pcv pipe from fitting over the handle or build the handle up with foam for a more secure fit #pvc pipe is available at hardware stores the store may cut the […]
A Care recipient (cr) appears to be having trouble swallowing and seems to be choking more than is normal
Try: #a cr who is choking or having trouble swallowing should be seen by a doctor the caregiver will want to make sure the doctor is looking for physical problems in the pharynx or esophagus among other things #an evaluation of how the cr is swallowing is done by a speech therapist the cr’s primary […]
Mealtime can be a difficult and overwhelming experience simplify meal preparation and presentation to keep eating tasks manageable
Try: To help the Care recipient (cr) stay as independent as possible avoid confusion and limit the number of items used to serve a meal using one plate one cup and one piece of silverware limits the number of choices to make many times a fork or spoon can be used for the whole meal […]
Weighted silverware can help a Care recipient (cr) who has trouble managing utensils
Try: Look for heavyweight eating utensils that are particularly heavy on the end held in the eater’s palm these will resist being shaken better than lighter weight knives forks and spoons Materials: Large handled silverware with heavyweight ends Categories: Feeding Eating, Needs Some Assistance, Needs Much Assistance, No Supervision, Some Supervision, Maximum Supervision Information: n/a […]
Inability to raise a glass or to tilt the head to drink may cause waste and make it hard for a Care recipient (cr) to drink adequate amounts of fluid
Try: Place a drinking straw in a glass making sure it reaches from the bottom of the glass to the cr’s lips or look for a water bottle with a built-in straw that reaches all the way to the bottom of the bottle these will allow a cr with limited strength or movement to drink […]