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Help with drinking
It is really important to drink regularly, to keep properly hydrated. Consequences of dehydration range from poor concentration to dizziness and increased likelihood of falling, and urinary tract infections.
If you find it difficult to manage a drink, here are some suggestions
to help.
You can read our tips on kitchen safety
here
Some suppliers of drinking aids.
Clicking on a highlighted name will open
their showcase page in a new window:
Able2
easygrip cups and mugs, trays, etc
Adaptawear
Dignity ceramic range
Drinkup hands-free drinking
Forcetenco
easygrip cups and mugs
Nordic Care Services two-handed
mugs, easygrip "glass"
If weakness, lack of dexterity or a tremor make it difficult to use
a standard cup or mug, a two-handled design may be easier.
Options include the Dignity range shown on the right, which combines a wide, two-handled grip with a drinking spout that can also accommodate a straw if preferred.
The oval saucer also does duty as a plate for biscuits, etc, and has a deep recess to hold the cup securely while it is being carried.
An adjustable mug or cup holder can also be useful to keep drinks from spilling; the insulation prevents heat damage to wooden surfaces.
People
who have had a stroke, a head injury or neurological disability often
have difficulty swallowing safely. The Dysphagia
Cup (left) so that swallowing can be achieved without having to tilt
the head back. The cup is shaped to allow adequate nose clearance, and
the large handle enables the whole hand to be used to grasp it. Being
able to take small amounts of liquid regularly, without the risk of being
overwhelmed by more than you can manage, is a key to maintaining healthy
levels of hydration.
A simple, cost-effective solution for anyone
with limited mobility, whether in bed or a chair, the
Hydrant (right) provides liquid via a tube with bite valve, which opens
under pressure and closes when released, so there is no leakage.
Ideal for situations - such as hospitals and care homes - where somebody is otherwise dependent on others to provide drinks.
Anybody
who is completely unable to use their arms, as a result of injury, medical
treatment or disability, can still drink whenever they wish, using the
ingenious hands-free Drinkup system (shown left). It can be used when
seated, or in bed.
The mouthpiece gives the user complete control over how much liquid they consume, and it also acts as an anti-siphon and non-return valve. Drinkup can be used with any normal household cup, mug or glass, or with a standard NHS-type jug for larger quantities.
Trays
with added features.
On the left, a tray which can be carried in one hand, leaving the other free. It also has a non-slip surface.
On the right, a bean bag tray, which moulds comfortably to your lap, keeping the contents of the tray securely on the level.
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