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Aging In Place

Senior Medical Alert Systems with No Monthly Fee Recommended by Occupational Therapists

Senior Medical Alert Systems with No Monthly Fee Recommended by Occupational Therapists
By Heather Collins, MSN, RN, CNOR

In our exploration of medical alert systems, we recognize their significant benefits. Beyond providing safety, they empower seniors with independence and families with peace of mind. By reviewing types, assessing their value, and considering occupational therapist recommendations, we see these technologies as essential for Aging in Place. Continue reading to learn how these essential elderly monit...

5 Best Home Modifications for Aging in Place Affordably

5 Best Home Modifications for Aging in Place Affordably
By Susan Griffitts, MSN, RN, FCN

Aging in place means living independently and comfortably in one's own home and community, regardless of age, income, or ability. It is a common aspiration for our later years, offering safety and affordability compared to nursing homes or assisted living facilities. Remaining in your own home as you age can contribute to better health and happiness as a senior. While certain homes may need significant renovations for accessibility, we have shared budget-friendly, simple home modifications to support aging in place.


4 Best Fall Recovery Devices For Seniors | Watch Video Summary

4 Best Fall Recovery Devices For Seniors | Watch Video Summary
By Hulet Smith, OTR/L, MBA, CEO

Discover innovative fall recovery devices designed for seniors and individuals with limited mobility. These cutting-edge solutions offer swift and secure assistance after falls, prioritizing safety while empowering both users and caregivers. From the inflatable Mangar Camel Lifting Cushion to the transformative IndeeLift Human Floor Lift, efficient Hoyer Lifts by Joerns, and revolutionary HelpUp AirLift, these devices redefine the recovery process, ensuring dignity and independence for all.


How Aging in Place Can Improve Mental Health

How Aging in Place Can Improve Mental Health
By Kelsey Lauer, BA, BSN, RN

The elderly predominantly wish to age in their homes, a setting imbued with cherished memories and social ties. This preference, fostering easier visits from loved ones and maintaining community connections, has been linked to better mental and physical health. By nurturing feelings of familiarity, comfort, and independence, aging in place elevates their quality of life and sense of fulfillment.


3 Exercises Elderly Must Do to Avoid Health Decline [WITH VIDEO]

3 Exercises Elderly Must Do to Avoid Health Decline [WITH VIDEO]
By Morgan Hopkins, DPT, CMTPT

In this article, we explored 3 essential exercises for seniors to stay healthy and active, all without the need for a gym or equipment. These exercises were recommended by Morgan Hopkins, a dedicated physical therapist. By incorporating these exercises into their daily routines, seniors can maintain their health, improve strength and flexibility, and enjoy a higher quality of life.


Red Flags VS Normal: Navigating Age-Related Memory Loss [WITH VIDEO]

Red Flags VS Normal: Navigating Age-Related Memory Loss [WITH VIDEO]
By Megan Smith, PT, HR Director for Rehabmart.com

This article explores the common concerns surrounding memory loss as we age and offers guidance for distinguishing between normal memory lapses and potential red flags. With insights from an expert in gerontology, it emphasizes that occasional memory lapses like misplacing items or forgetting names are generally normal. However, persistent difficulties managing finances, losing track of time, or being unable to retrace steps to find misplaced items may indicate a need for professional evaluation. By understanding the nuances of memory loss and seeking appropriate support when necessary, we can approach the aging process with empathy and empowerment, fostering a proactive approach to memory health.


What's Normal & Abnormal When Caring For Aging Parents [VIDEO]

What's Normal & Abnormal When Caring For Aging Parents [VIDEO]
By Mike Price, OT, CIO/CMO

Susie DiGiovanna, a trusted gerontologist, offers valuable insights for caregivers navigating the complexities of caring for aging parents. With Susie's expertise, it emphasizes the importance of responding to their needs, setting boundaries, and maintaining open communication. Discussing end-of-life wishes, seeking support when needed, and promoting independence are key aspects of responsible caregiving. The article highlights Susie's guidance to prioritize self-care and find a balance between providing assistance and preserving the caregiver's well-being. By embracing these principles, caregivers can navigate the caregiving journey with empathy, compassion, and the expert advice of Susie, a knowledgeable gerontologist.


Aging in Place with Dementia

Aging in Place with Dementia
By Heather Collins, MSN, RN, CNOR

Caring for someone with dementia is tough, but we can help by providing safety devices and equipment to create a secure living space. Our aim is to bring peace of mind to you and your family while enhancing your loved one's well-being through a familiar and comfortable environment. Trust us to support you through this challenging journey.


Cooking Up a Storm: Kitchen Ideas for Aging in Place

Cooking Up a Storm: Kitchen Ideas for Aging in Place
By Susan Griffitts, MSN, RN, FCN

Ensure kitchen safety for loved ones aging in place by implementing a thoughtful layout and using adaptive equipment. This enables individuals to thrive and create lasting memories in the kitchen. For more information and accessible products, visit Caregiver University and embrace independence and functionality in your life.


Aging in Place with Technology

Aging in Place with Technology
By Heather Collins, MSN, RN, CNOR

Aging in place means staying in one's own home as they grow older, offering benefits like improved quality of life, familiarity, and independence. By assessing individual needs, optimizing the home environment, and utilizing appropriate technology, daily activities can be made easier and home safety ensured. With the aid of technology and a suitable living arrangement, aging in place is achievable.


Turn Down the Heat: Fire Safety for Seniors

Turn Down the Heat: Fire Safety for Seniors
By Susan Griffitts, MSN, RN, FCN

Ensure the safety of seniors by prioritizing fire safety measures. Install devices like FireAvert Automatic Shut-Off Device and SafeAwake Fire Alarm Alert Device for enhanced protection. Taking proactive steps now will enable older adults to enjoy a secure and fulfilling life while aging in their own homes.


[Expert Gerontologist] Susie's Favorite Products for Aging in Place

[Expert Gerontologist] Susie's Favorite Products for Aging in Place
By Olivia Hein

FireAvert Automatic Shut-Off Device The FireAvert Automatic Shut-Off Device is a device designed to automatically shut off a stove or oven in case of a fire. It uses a smoke alarm to detect smoke or fire and sends a signal to the stove or oven, turning it off and preventing the spread of the fire. The Fireavert is easy to install and can provide an extra level of safety for individual...

Venous Leg Ulcers: Treating Chronic Leg Wounds with the Latest At-Home Compression Device

Venous Leg Ulcers: Treating Chronic Leg Wounds with the Latest At-Home Compression Device
By Benjamin K. Mattox, DrPH, PA-C

Venous Leg Ulcers affect 2% of individuals aged over 80, causing significant inconvenience and expense. Although well-studied, advanced treatments for VLUs are scarce. Fortunately, Huntleigh is introducing the latest treatment to users at home. When combined with preventative measures, intermittent pneumatic compression can effectively minimize the chronicity of the condition and reduce its symptoms.


Can Aging in Place Delay Nursing Home Admissions?

Can Aging in Place Delay Nursing Home Admissions?
By Heather Collins, MSN, RN, CNOR

Seniors who choose aging in place can enjoy their familiar surroundings, maintain independence, and enhance their overall well-being, as it provides a better alternative to traditional nursing home care. However, assessing each senior's unique needs and circumstances is crucial to ensure a secure and supportive environment. With the cooperation of family, caregivers, and professionals, aging in place can be a feasible option that promotes longer and healthier lives for seniors.


Common Health Problems for the Elderly (and How to Solve Them)

Common Health Problems for the Elderly (and How to Solve Them)
By Heather Collins, MSN, RN, CNOR

As the elderly population grows, it's essential to address their unique health challenges with effective solutions. From arthritis to Alzheimer's, resources and tools can improve their quality of life and independence. Caregivers who stay informed and implement the right strategies can ensure their loved ones age gracefully and securely at home.


How to Choose the Best Alarm for Deaf People

How to Choose the Best Alarm for Deaf People
By Heather Collins, MSN, RN, CNOR

Don’t let limited hearing hold you back. Empower yourself or your loved one with the ultimate safety and security solution. There are several options for deaf alarms, including visual alarms with flashing lights, vibrotactile alarms that shake, and auditory alarms with higher volume and lower frequency sounds. To find the best alarm for you, check out our selection of alarms for the hearing impaired, which offers a variety of options to fit different preferences and needs.

 


What Are the Benefits of Patient Safety Devices While Aging At Home?

What Are the Benefits of Patient Safety Devices While Aging At Home?
By Heather Collins, MSN, RN, CNOR

Patient safety devices come in a variety of forms offering patients and caregivers much-needed peace of mind while promoting independence in the home setting. If you or someone you love is looking to maximize a patient’s security at home, check out our full listing of patient safety devices here.


How To Choose A Hearing Aid

How To Choose A Hearing Aid
By Heather Collins, MSN, RN, CNOR

Hearing aids help people to hear and communicate more clearly and come in several different styles to suit various degrees of hearing loss. They’re much more accessible and affordable since the FDA established its historic rule in August 2022, allowing many hearing aids to be sold directly to consumers over-the-counter (OTC). This guide covers all the essential information you need to know to select the best hearing aid for yourself or a loved one.

 


How To Find A Local Contractor [For Handicap Sinks, Ceiling Lifts, Stair Lifts, & More]

How To Find A Local Contractor [For Handicap Sinks, Ceiling Lifts, Stair Lifts, & More]
By Susan Griffitts, MSN, RN, FCN

There are millions of homes that need modifications to accommodate the needs of their disabled residents. Installation of equipment like wheelchair ramps, ceiling lifts, and other accessibility aids help people safely age in place at home, which for many people is preferable to entering a care facility. Here is a guide for How To Find A Local Contractor.


Top 5 Bed Rails for Traditional Home Beds - [Updated for 2022]

Top 5 Bed Rails for Traditional Home Beds - [Updated for 2022]
By Megan Smith, PT

Your bed should be a safe and cozy spot, not someplace that could be dangerous. Whether using a bed safety rail for leverage, to reposition yourself with assistance, or to lean on while getting dressed, it can provide you with the support to maintain your independence and be comfortable in your own bed. Our product experts give their top five selections in this article.


Top 7 Low Vision Aids [Updated]

Top 7 Low Vision Aids [Updated]
By Megan Smith, PT

Low vision requires people who have it to adapt to how they accomplish daily activities. Here are several low vision aids that utilize your voice and hearing when you can’t rely on your sight.


Blindshell Classic 2 Review

Blindshell Classic 2 Review
By Mike Price, OT

The BlindShell Classic 2 smartphone is designed to be easy to operate and super user-friendly. Often recommended for low vision rehabilitation, the features included, such as voice commands/control, a tactile/jumbo number keypad, a very loud speaker, and access to the latest apps make this innovative next-generation smartphone the ideal choice for anyone struggling to view their phones.


Aging in Place: How To Modify Your Bedroom For Safety

Aging in Place: How To Modify Your Bedroom For Safety
By Jeanine Clancy, MEd, BSN, RN

Safety and comfort are the main considerations for people aging at home. Aging at home allows you to be surrounded by people and things that have meaning for you. Our product experts give their top recommendations for people aging at home in this article.


Aging in Place: How to Create a Senior-Friendly Living Room

Aging in Place: How to Create a Senior-Friendly Living Room
By Jeanine Clancy, MEd, BSN, RN

Creating a living room focused on home safety for seniors supports maintaining independence and aging in place. As needs evolve, making just a few changes can have a big impact by reducing the risk of a fall and making the living room more convenient and comfortable. Our product experts give their top recommendations in this article.


Ultimate Guide: Equipment for Elderly Care at Home

Ultimate Guide: Equipment for Elderly Care at Home
By Megan Smith, PT

Aging in place is often preferable to entering a care facility, but caring for elderly parents at home presents challenges. The assistive devices can contribute to a safe and comfortable environment for anyone desiring to age in place. Our product experts give their top recommendations in this article.

 


Compass Health Brands | From Carex to Bed Buddy, The Home Health Navigator

Compass Health Brands | From Carex to Bed Buddy, The Home Health Navigator
By Brittany Ferri, OTR/L

When Compass Health formed from the merger between Roscoe Medical and Carex, both forces decided to combine their deep industry knowledge to provide a superior home health supply experience for their customers. Their ability to navigate the complexities of the healthcare industry inspired the name ‘Compass’. Our product experts give their top recommendations in this article.


6 Reasons Why We Love the Sara Stedy Lift

6 Reasons Why We Love the Sara Stedy Lift
By Megan Smith, PT

Six reasons why we LOVE the Sara Stedy by Arjo. Read or watch the video to find out!


How Arjo Makes It Easy To Care for Elderly at Home | Our Guide To The Arjo Brand

How Arjo Makes It Easy To Care for Elderly at Home | Our Guide To The Arjo Brand
By Hulet Smith, OT

Whether you are in a short-term recovery or getting ready to age-in-place gracefully, Arjo has products that can make your life easier. They have a dedication and commitment to bringing high-quality healthcare into the home space-- and 60 years of experience in acute and long-term care to back it up. Our product experts give their top recommendations in this article.


How to Choose the Best Wandering Alarm for Dementia Patients [Updated for 2022]

How to Choose the Best Wandering Alarm for Dementia Patients [Updated for 2022]
By Mike Price, OT

Six in 10 people with dementia will wander at least once, and many do it repeatedly, as they lose their ability to recognize familiar places and people. Wandering can be extremely dangerous, so the risk cannot be ignored. Patient Safety Alarms are a valuable tool to ensure  dementia patients remain in a comfortable and safe environment. Our product experts give their top recommendations in this article.


Top 5 Best Patient Positioning Pillows for Bedridden and Elderly - [Updated for 2022]

Top 5 Best Patient Positioning Pillows for Bedridden and Elderly - [Updated for 2022]
By Megan Smith, PT

Patient positioning pillows provide specialized support for people who spend a lot of time in bed. While you can try cramming regular pillows under loved ones lying in bed, most of us find we need more exacting support to attain effective and comfortable positioning. Our product experts give their top five selections in this article.


Platinum Health Store | Shower Chairs, Toileting Aids, and Adjustable Beds for Aging at Home

Platinum Health Store | Shower Chairs, Toileting Aids, and Adjustable Beds for Aging at Home
By Hulet Smith, OT

Platinum Health is a premier manufacturer of adaptive equipment and home health solutions. Naturally, they use the highest-grade materials and employ the best designers and healthcare consultants. Even more importantly than that, Platinum puts all of their products to one simple test. Our product experts give their top recommendations in this article.


Bed Rails for Seniors: How to Choose According to an Occupational Therapist

Bed Rails for Seniors: How to Choose According to an Occupational Therapist
By Mike Price, OT

Bed rails help create a supportive and assistive sleeping environment. Getting in and out of bed safely, resting with confidence that you won’t fall out of bed, and being able to change positions  when you want or need to are all good reasons to have a bed safety rail. Our product experts give their top recommendations in this article.


The 5 Best Hearing Impaired Alert Devices

The 5 Best Hearing Impaired Alert Devices
By Mike Price, OT

Alert devices for the deaf or hearing impaired allow users to be safe and accomplish daily tasks. Hearing impaired individuals can enjoy the independence, confidence, and self-reliance that comes from knowing they will be alerted to events that need attention and action. Our product experts give their top five selections in this article.


The 5 Best Hearing Impaired Telephones - [Updated for 2021]

The 5 Best Hearing Impaired Telephones - [Updated for 2021]
By Hulet Smith, OT

In RehabMart's Top 5 Hearing Impaired Telephones Review, we will evaluate the features, benefits and customer feedback of five of the best phones available, so that you can chose the hearing-impaired telephone that is right for you.  


Top 5 Products for Urinary Incontinence

Top 5 Products for Urinary Incontinence
By Mike Price, OT

Urinary incontinence is a common problem that most of us experience due to a variety of both medical and non-medical reasons. This urinary incontinence can leave affected people feeling stigmatized, negating their sense of independence. Our product experts give their top five selections in products for Urinary incontinence.


Top 5 Best Low Vision Watches - [Updated for 2021]

Top 5 Best Low Vision Watches - [Updated for 2021]
By Mike Price, OT

Low vision watches can help people of all ages who live with vision impairment. Low vision optical watches assist people who cannot see well to tell time through a wrist time piece. Our product experts give their top five selections in this article.


Top 5 Best Blood Pressure Monitors [Updated for 2021]

Top 5 Best Blood Pressure Monitors [Updated for 2021]
By Megan Smith, PT

Keeping regular track of blood pressure with a blood pressure monitor at home helps provide a broad picture assessment. This is more accurate than a one-time reading at the doctor's office. Our product experts have recommended five top blood pressure monitors for home in this article.


7 Easy Tips to Treat & Protect Diabetic Skin at Home

7 Easy Tips to Treat & Protect Diabetic Skin at Home
By Mike Price, OT

People with diabetes face unique challenges when it comes to skin care, and for someone new to diabetes or who is already struggling with these problems, it can feel difficult to navigate. We've outlined some of our best tips to keep diabetic skin clean, moisturized, and healthy. Read on to find out more!


Aging in Place? Here's 8 Kitchen Tools to Make Cooking Easy

Aging in Place? Here's 8 Kitchen Tools to Make Cooking Easy
By Mike Price, OT

The kitchen is the heart of the home, a place where people gather to cook, eat, and socialize. But for people aging in place, it can pose a lot of challenges as well. We've recommended 8 of our favorite kitchen aids to address a range of needs and help people stay safe and independent in the kitchen. Read more to find out what we picked and why!


4 Life-Changing Tips To Help You Care for Your Aging Parent

4 Life-Changing Tips To Help You Care for Your Aging Parent
By Mike Price, OT

If your parent is aging, you may have some concerns about how to keep them safe into their senior years. Thankfully, there are a variety of great ways to help make sure that your loved one can remain both independent and safe in their own homes. Click here to learn how!


8 Best Tools to Make Medication Management Simple

8 Best Tools to Make Medication Management Simple
By Hulet Smith, OT

More than half of us are taking at least one medication a day, with many taking more. But once those pills add up, it can be cumbersome to remember dosages and timing. To help make sure every pill you take is just right, check out our 8 best tools for better medication management!


How to Recognize Depression in Your Elderly Parent: 6 Tips

How to Recognize Depression in Your Elderly Parent: 6 Tips
By Mike Price, OT

Depression is a pervasive disease that affects people of all ages, but older adults may be more difficult to diagnose with depression due to the unique presentation of the symptoms. To learn how to recognize the signs of depression in your elderly loved one, check out our top six tips now!


Incontinence Products: Which One is Right For You?

Incontinence Products: Which One is Right For You?
By Hulet Smith, OT

Struggling with incontinence? It may feel embarrassing, but incontinence is fairly common. And, with the advances in protective technology, there are better products available than ever before to help you address incontinence of all types. To help you navigate the choices, we've laid out all the need-to-know information, so come check it out now!


Daily Living Aids: What Are They & How Can They Help?

Daily Living Aids: What Are They & How Can They Help?
By Mike Price, OT

Daily tasks shouldn't have to be hard, but due to a range of circumstances, the tasks we all take for granted can become looming challenges. We've laid out some of the most common difficulties people have in daily life and the tools you can use to make them easy, recommending some of the best in our catalog to make even the shopping process totally effortless.


8 Amazing Tips & Tools for People Living with ALS

8 Amazing Tips & Tools for People Living with ALS
By Mike Price, OT

ALS can be a challenging disease to live with. Luckily there are so many tips and tools available to make living with ALS much simpler for both those who have it and their friends and family members. Whether you're newly diagnosed or in the late stages of ALS progression, there are so many ways to make ALS take a backseat to you living your life.


Improving Quality of Life for Someone Living with Alzheimer's Disease

Improving Quality of Life for Someone Living with Alzheimer's Disease
By Mike Price, OT

As the most common form of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease adversely affects memory and other cognitive abilities, causing a decline in these faculties that can be slow, fast, or seem to happen in bursts. Because so many individuals and families have been directly impacted by Alzheimer’s and other dementias, there is an ever-increasing flow and supply of valuable knowledge to help you and your loved ones live better with this disease.


Understanding Lou Gehrig's Disease (ALS): Caregiver Tips, Tricks, and Devices

Understanding Lou Gehrig's Disease (ALS): Caregiver Tips, Tricks, and Devices
By Megan Smith, PT

ALS is a condition that ultimately affects almost every aspect of a person’s functioning. What begins with the need for a walker could end up with the need for a respirator. In this article, we won’t attempt to give you a comprehensive guide to caretaking. Instead, we’d like to offer you some of the tips and devices we consider most useful when caring for a loved one with ALS - and caring for yourself in the process! 


Worried About an ALS Diagnosis? Stop and Read This!

Worried About an ALS Diagnosis? Stop and Read This!
By Megan Smith, PT

A potential ALS diagnosis is a scary thing for you or a loved one. But the more you know, the better prepared you will be to deal with the news. This article is filled with the facts you need to better understand this life-changing condition. 


5 Easy Ways to Make Your Home Safer for a Parent with Alzheimer's

5 Easy Ways to Make Your Home Safer for a Parent with Alzheimer's
By Hulet Smith, OT

If you have a loved one with Alzheimer's or another form of dementia, you know that at some point it may become unsafe for them to continue living on their own. These helpful tips for adjusting to life with a parent can make the the transition a smooth one, and ensure your loved one remains safe and happy in their new home. 


A Caregiver's Guide to Coming Home from the Hospital with a Loved One

A Caregiver's Guide to Coming Home from the Hospital with a Loved One
By Megan Smith, PT

Welcoming home a loved one after a stay in the hospital is a time of joy and relief. It's also a crucial moment to consider new safety and comfort needs for you and your family. For a smooth and healthy transition, understanding whether or not their home requires additional medical equipment to enhance your loved one's homecoming experience is an important step! 


My Parent Doesn't Recognize Me Anymore: A Caregiver's Guide to Coping with Alzheimer's

My Parent Doesn't Recognize Me Anymore: A Caregiver's Guide to Coping with Alzheimer's
By Mike Price, OT

When your parent has Alzheimer’s disease, one of the most difficult rites of passage comes on the day when the person you once knew - the one who raised you, the one you’ve depended on - no longer knows who you are.

As a son or daughter, you stand at the beginning of a new and challenging journey. We hope this article will help you to make sense of the changes, the challenges, and the unexpected moments of joy to be found in the days to come.


Shure-Step: The Safest Step Stools in the World

Shure-Step: The Safest Step Stools in the World
By Megan Smith, PT

The Shure-Step Safe Step Stool has everything for safe stepping, including a non-slip surface of sandpaper material and a strong wedge based design with non-skid pads to help prevent slipping accidents. Schure Step offers a wide selection of innovative step-stools in order to prevent falling and skidding, and keep the ones you love independent and active well into their years!


Everything You Need to Know About Filing a Medicare Claim

Everything You Need to Know About Filing a Medicare Claim
By Megan Smith, PT

In Everything You Need to Know About Filing a Medicare Claim, you’ll find a walk-through of how to file a direct medical payment claim, as well as an extensive FAQ, broken down by individual questions and answers. 


The 5 Best Magnifying Lamps - [Updated for 2022]

The 5 Best Magnifying Lamps - [Updated for 2022]
By Mike Price, OT

According to the National Eye Institute, nearly 3.5 million Americans over the age of 40 experience some level of blindness or low-vision.

There are many options when it comes to illuminated magnifying lamps. Our Top 5 Review will compare and evaluate the best equipment available, so that you can make the right choice for your family.  


5 Easy Ways to Make a Low Vision Accessible Kitchen

5 Easy Ways to Make a Low Vision Accessible Kitchen
By Mike Price, OT

Living with low vision? Cooking and preparing meals for yourself may seem like a challenge, but it doesn't have to be. We lay out some great tips and tricks to keep your independence in the kitchen. Read on to learn more!


How to Avoid Caregiver Burnout | Updated for 2019

How to Avoid Caregiver Burnout | Updated for 2019
By Hulet Smith, OT

Caregivers have one of the most demanding jobs around. Giving care to your loved one can be rewarding, frustrating, exhausting, thankless, and challenging. One of the biggest challenges is to take care of yourself too.