By Kate Shuman, Staff Writer
Kitchen:
- Chairs when preparing meals,
it’s a good idea to have an office chair or studio
chair to sit in while doing so.
- Coffee maker choose a simple
model with a handle that’s easy and comfortable to
grip, and has an accurate spout. Consider getting an
electric coffee maker; leave it plugged in
permanently to make shutting it on and off easier.
- Electrical sockets place
appliances to give easy access to electrical sockets
when needed.
- Cupboards and drawers arrange
food items on sliding trays and carousels. Place
heavy items such as soup or vegetable cans at eye
level. Select the most frequently used plates, cups,
and cookware and place them within easy reach; avoid
putting these things on high shelves. Put utensils
in an easily accessible drawer. Carefully consider
the needs of the person using the kitchen when
selecting handles and knobs for cabinets and
drawers.
- Food cart utilize a food cart
with wheels and at least two levels to serve meals.
Food and dishes can be wheeled where needed and
easily taken off and placed back on to cart.
- Kitchen knives get knives that
are right-angled or have a knob handle. Select
chopping boards that are non-skid and easy to clean.
For cutting food, get special utensils that have a
cutting guide to keep the food and utensils safely
in place.
- Kitchen sink place a
shock-absorbing rubber mat on the bottom. Install a
mixer-tap with thermostat control instead of
individual hot and cold handles.
Microwave – choose a model that has touch-sensitive
controls or soft-notched buttons.
- Can opener use an electric can
opener, and use specialized grips for tight jar
lids.
Living room:
- Armchairs get chairs with firm cushions to help make
it easier when getting up; there are also chair lifts which can be placed in
comfortable chairs, or easy-chairs that already have the
lift built-in.
- Bookcases keep the items which are least-used on the
higher shelves and light the inside of the shelves.
- Remote control get a universal remote that has large
buttons; some of these also come illuminated.
- Lamps be sure to use sturdy table or floor lamps that
won’t easily tip over and will give off the amount of
light desired; some lamps are touch-sensitive, and are
easier to use for someone who may have problems
manipulating a small switch.
- Telephone it’s best to use a cordless, allowing for
use anywhere in the room; keep cords, base, and
telephone connection out of the way of general passage
areas.