Portable Urinal for an Elderly ManI was upset about the "dribbles" on the bathroom floor in front of the toilet for years. Then I realized that if he used his portable urinal we could solve the problem and it did! He can fully empty his bladder while standing and pour the urine out without splashing or dribbling. I am so happy to have solved this problem - for both of us - because he really couldn't help it.
Uses for Non-Slip Utility MatsI was at Food City and saw my favorite color, which is green, in a non slip utility mat. These are useful to prevent plates slipping around on trays. So I cut out a square and circle for meals which I take to my mom. It keeps everything in place.
Borrowing EyesBetween age and infirmity, I often do not see what's right in front of me, and I am plagued with not being able to find things. When someone comes to visit, I ask to "borrow" their eyes to look for these things. Often they are found within minutes and we both have a good laugh.
Keep Chore List for HelpersEighteen months ago I lost my husband of 42 years. Ever since, my children have me use one of those magnetic chore pads that stick to my refrigerator and as I see a light bulb out, a leaky faucet, etc. I write it down.
Disability Aid IdeasThe traditional hunter's vests have many pockets. They are so nice to use as it leaves my hands free. I carry these items with me for emergencies: a whistle, cell, pad and pen, eyeglasses, reading glasses, money, medicines, etc.
Cutting Back in Retirement and Still Having FunFor years, my husband and I had planned our budget for retirement years while we were working. Since money does not go as far as it used to, we have had to cut back on spending and still enjoy these Golden Years.
How Old is Elderly?Elderly is a way of thinking and acting, rather than a number of birthdays. The person who is rigid in thinking, unable and unwilling to consider new ideas, and rutted into acting in limited and old ways is elderly.
Use BBQ Tongs to Retrieve ItemsI hit on the idea of using long metal BBQ tongs. It really grabs what I need and I can keep it right by my chair.
Wear Hard to Button Blouses as a JacketI found this blouse but it has tiny baby clothes buttons. There is no way I'll be able to get up early enough to button that shirt. The weight of the fabric and the ruffles on the front will allow me to use it as a jacket or over shirt.
Platform For "Lift" ChairAs I have gotten older, health problems are rampant. I have problems with my hips and it had gotten very hard to get out of the my chair.
Use Pliers for Opening BottlesI am a senior citizen with arthritis. I find it hard to open pop bottles and milk jugs, so I decided to use my adjustable pliers and it works great. Just clamp them on the lid and twist. I store pliers in my silverware drawer so they are handy.
Social Security Benefits BinderWhen I applied for Social Security benefits, I organized all my documents, correspondence and other pertinent information in a three-ring binder. Each piece of paperwork was placed in a plastic sheet protector.
