Hurray for adaptive devices and equipment. The right devices can seem like a third hand for you; they can make transfers easier, dining simpler and caregiving safer.
To help you find the right equipment (and we include clothing in this category), we’ve compiled a list of online stores:
ActiveForever.com: The company offers an extensive catalog, including diabetes supplies, scooters and skin care products. The Cruisin Cooler Electric Scooter Cooler caught my eye, which the company says “is a motorized beer cooler scooter designed to bring a whole new level of fun to tailgates, BBQ’s, and even parties.”
AlzStore.com: This is my go-to site for great products for persons with Alzheimer’s. You’ll find products that will help prevent wandering, that increase safety and that provide entertainment. My favorite products include the anti-scalding device, no start car battery switch and activity lap pillow. (Mark and Ellen Warner, the store’s owners, are very dedicated to helping persons with Alzheimer’s and their family caregivers. If you can’t find what you need, be sure to ask. They’ll do their best to help.)
Assistech Special Needs: The company carries a complete line of assistive products for those who are deaf or hard-of-hearing, visually impaired, speech-impaired, and physically challenged.
Buck and Buck: The company makes dressing easier, with a variety of clothing created specific to diseases (Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, for instance). (Personal Note: I’ve asked Julie Buck, one of the owners, to help a few family caregivers over the years—she has always been gracious and giving. It’s nice to highlight a company whose owner truly works to meet the needs of her customers.)
Caregiver Products: Amy Wright, a physical therapist, organizes her store logically so you can find products that you’ll need in the kitchen, around the house and for getting ready. You also can download a free home safety checklist.
Disability Products: The site offers low-vision products, kitchen aids, and recreation products such as playing card holders. The company says a portion of each purchase is donate to charity.
Dynamic Living: This simple-to-navigate site also is very diplomatic, including a section called “Generously Sized” (products designed for big people). The company enjoys longevity online, opening in 1997.
LifewithEase.com: I like that this company features garden tools (and touts that it’s based in tax-free New Hampshire!). You can purchase Good Grips products here as well as products to aid in travel.
The Mobility Resource: It’s all about getting around on this site. You can purchase turning car seats, accessible vans and car controls.
PersonCare.Net: The company offers products for both hands-on care and Alzheimer’s care. For each product, the company details what it calls the three keys: Who is it for? Why is it needed? What’s the major product benefit for you?
Sears.com: Sears has long carried adaptive devices in its catalog. You can purchase lifts and chairs, bath seats and foot care. You can buy products online and then pick up in a store near you. (Personal Note: My father retired from Sears. A special shout-out to Sears to picking up my college tab.)
Which sites do you use that we’ve missed? And, be sure to tell us about your experiences ordering equipment and supplies online.
Resources
Assistive Technology Fact Sheet
