Everyday Aids for the Elderly

When mobility and senses decline in old age, special everyday aids can compensate for this. Many are already practical for younger people. Only a few of the 50- to 80-year-olds have no significant problems in handling household objects. Many older people are in danger of failing with can openers, some are in constant conflict with corkscrews, and others have trouble with vegetable graters and ironing boards. Problems also often arise with household ladders, juice squeezers or trash cans.

Technical challenges in everyday life

Dealing with electrical devices is becoming increasingly difficult for many older people. The main points of criticism when it comes to problems with technical household appliances are often the high amount of force required or the unmanageability.

Incomprehensible operating instructions, poorly decipherable labels or buttons that are too small make everyday life even more difficult for seniors.

Addressing the needs of the elderly

But the industry has become more attentive. Not least due to the increasingly higher average age of the population, the demand for easy-to-use devices is also rising. For example, cell phones are now on the market that you can really only use to make phone calls and not also listen to music or take pictures.

Another example is washing machines that are higher. There are devices that are either built higher right away or where a base is included. Inclined drums, which are easier to fill, or beveled control panels increase ease of use, as do illuminated drums in search of the last sock. Non-tilt trays in ovens are also increasingly becoming the norm.

For new purchases, it is advisable to take a look at the test reports of Stiftung Warentest or seek advice in the store.

Emergency call systems create safety

In order to be able to call help quickly in case of need, such as a fall, home emergency call systems provide security. For this, one wears a radio transmitter like a wristwatch or a medallion on a chain around the arm or neck. At the touch of a button, a connection is established to a base station in the home and from there to a rescue control center. The devices are either borrowed from the major rescue services or private providers – and in the case of people in need of care who live alone, often on the basis of a health insurance prescription.

Emergency cell phone systems extend beyond the range of the home: Here, too, there is an emergency call center. In addition, satellite navigation can be used to determine location and send help if needed.

Easy-to-use cell phones for seniors

Telephones are also an important issue when it comes to aids in everyday life. Nowadays, they also come with large buttons and easy-to-read displays.

Of course, regardless of emergency call systems, you can also purchase a cell phone that is as easy to use as possible, but it should be thoroughly tried out before buying. With a special device of the newer generation, it is also possible to program an emergency call button and reach preselected numbers with the press of a button.