Eating & Drinking Aids

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Eating aids
Drinking aids

Eating Aids

For one-handed eating, with reduced dexterity or weakened grip, the knork (left) is a fork with wide, rounded and bevelled outer tines that will safely cut food like a knife, without a sharp edge to cut the mouth of the user.

The knork slices through food with a rocking motion which is facilitated by a finger platform on both sides of the handle. As it is symmetrical it can be used by both left and right handers, and it is also available with a built-up padded handle.

Melamine crockery (right) with deep rims assists in scooping up food.

Cutlery with ergonomic handles is easier to grip, and angled utensils help to prevent wrist strain - all can help make food preparation and eating easier for arthritis sufferers.

These spoons with their narrow, shallow bowls make it easier for anyone who has difficulties eating from a standard spoon.

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Drinking Aids

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) has been designed 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.

There are various hands-free drinking systems, to allow people complete control over how much liquid they consume, whatever their physical limitations.

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