The Disability Information and Resource Centre

Keeping yourself active

Recreation is often an area that is overlooked by individuals, yet recreation choices let us express who we are. Activities are usually chosen according to interest, challenge characteristics and symbolic meaning. Recreation allows an individual to have new responsibilities, experiences and escape pressures of everyday life. Individuals with disabilities should have no lesser recreational experiences than anyone else. Assistive technology can support people to engage in their chosen recreation, enabling them to increase their self-esteem, motivation and achieve their best.

Several studies have illustrated the benefits of recreation and leisure pursuits as contributors to the quality of life for all people. In some cases individuals with disabilities who had greater access to recreation and leisure activities and participate regularly were more satisfied with their lives than their peers. Other benefits to emerge from further study in this area illustrate that there are also many functional and health benefits of participating in exercise and recreational activities.

Although there is a wide range of modified and adapted recreational equipment, sometimes alterations to the environment and activity may be enough to enable inclusion of people with disabilities to participate in an activity.

For example: The game of golf

*Source: Disability SA Independent Living Centre

A Short Guide to Walking Frames

Walking frames is the term given to a range of mobility aids which can be used both in the home and community. Walking frames can improve someone’s level of independence and reduce tiredness or pain when walking.  Because of the larger base a walking frame may also provide more support than a walking stick. An assessment by a health practitioner is important to establish the cause of the difficulties when walking and prescribe the most effective treatment or equipment. There is a large range of walking frames available to suit a range of body shapes and sizes.  When choosing a walking frame the individual’s needs, abilities and the places the frame will be used should all be considered.

Mobile Walking Frames
Is the term given to a group of walking frames with one or more wheels. Three or four wheeled walking frames can be suitable if the user is able to balance when standing without support, can walk reasonably well but would benefit from extra support over longer distances.  Three wheeled walkers may be easier to manoeuvre but due to a larger base of support a four wheel walker will provide more stability. Four wheeled frames often come with a seat which the user can rest on if they fatigue or experience shortness of breath. Many also have a basket to carry light goods.  Styles of brakes include hand/bicycle type brakes or push down brakes which work by pushing down through the handles. Check that you can operate the brakes easily before purchase.  Push down brakes can be of advantage when the user may forget to engage brakes when sitting and standing.   Most of these frames fold for transportation.

Two wheeled frames
These are generally recommended if the user is able to stand with light support and requires extra support when walking. They are most suited to indoor use. They have two wheels at the front and rubber stoppers or glides also known as skis at the back. Some models have wheels that swivel providing better manoeuvrability but may have a tendency to be less stable.  Stoppers offer greater stability than glides but glides are easier to push on carpet. Most fold for transportation.

Pick up frames
These have four rubber stoppers and no wheels. Suitable for someone requiring even more assistance and support when standing and walking that won’t “run away”. It is picked up and placed down again as you take each step. Some fold for ease of transportation. Users require a sufficient level of strength and balance to lift and place frame safely. 

The right height
It is important that the walking frame is adjusted to the correct height for the user. When standing with arms relaxed by their side the top of the handles should be at the same level as the user’s wrist crease. The seat is usually not height adjustable so check that it is a comfortable height prior to purchase.

Safety issues
It is a good idea to remove all obstacles indoors such as floor mats.When standing up remember to push up from the arms or seat of the chair before grasping the walking frame.Are their steps to negotiate? If using a mobile walking frame a ramp may need to be installed in place of steps.On frames with lockable brakes ensure they are engaged when both sitting down and standing up.

Transporting a walking frame.
Consider the weight of the frame. Aluminium frames will be lighter than steel frames. Can the folding mechanism be easily operated? Can the user or carer fold and lift the frame in and out of the car? Will the frame fit in the boot or back seat of their vehicle? There is a large range of walking frames on display at the Independent Living Centre. For further information or to make an appointment to visit the display area and speak to an Occupational Therapist, please contact the Independent Living Centre: www.ilc.asn.au

*Source: Disability SA Independent Living Centre

Looking After Yourself

Personal care can include activities such as showering, bathing, grooming, dressing and managing your medications. Maintaining your personal care can sometimes be difficult for a number of reasons, including:

• Bending and reaching to different parts of the body while showering, bathing and dressing may be painful and difficult.
• Difficulty gripping various items for personal care, such as sponges, soap, hairdryers and toothbrushes.
• Activities that require repetitive movements (such as brushing your teeth and scrubbing) may cause pain and discomfort.

Options

Looking after yourself can be made easier by using different techniques or products. There are a number of different options to consider:

• The first step may be to consider changing the way you do things, such as sitting rather than standing to cut toenails, brush your teeth, or to apply make-up
• If another person is available and willing to assist you, then you may wish to ask them to help you with difficult, painful or tiring tasks.
• A piece of equipment may be the solution to your problems or concerns.

Equipment for Personal Care

A number of small aids are available to assist you with personal care tasks. Examples include:

• Dressing

  • Buttons can often be very difficult to manage. One option is to replace buttons on cuffs with a cuff extender or a hook and loop fastening. Alternatively, you could consider using a button hook.
  • Zipper aids are available to make it easier to do up zips.
  • Doing up shoelaces can sometimes be difficult. Elastic shoelaces that remain permanently tied and coil shoelaces are options to consider.
  • Shoehorns are available to aid with putting on and pulling off shoes.
  • If these alternatives are still difficult to manage, you could consider slip-on shoes or shoes with hook and loop tape openings. Many come with a non-slip rubber sole for good grip to help you walk and stand safely.
  • Dressing sticks and sock and stocking aids can assist with getting dressed and putting on socks and stockings.

  Mouth and Nail Care

  • A nailbrush with suction cups on the bottom can be useful for cleaning nails with one hand. A nail clipper that is secured onto a piece of plastic helps to stabilise it for one-handed use.
  • An electric or battery operated toothbrush can make cleaning your teeth easier.
  • Suction denture brushes are available for cleaning dentures with one hand.

  Bathing

  • Soap-on-line and wash mittens with a pocket to hold the soap can assist with bathing.
  • Long-handled sponges and toe washers can be used to wash and dry between your toes. These eliminate the need to bend over to complete these tasks.
  • Long-handled hairbrushes and bottom wipers can also be used by those who find bending and reaching difficult.

  Other Equipment
  Other pieces of equipment are also available to assist with maintaining your independence within personal care tasks. These include:

  • Shower chairs and stools can be used with a hand-held shower hose to reduce the risk of slipping on a wet floor. Shower chairs and stools can also be used for sitting whilst drying and getting dressed.
  • Wooden or plastic bath boards can be fitted over the bath to sit on when bathing and showering. These are particularly useful in bathrooms where the shower is located over the bath.
  • Non-slip bath mats can be placed in wet areas to reduce the risk of slipping on the floor. Non-slip floor treatments can also be applied to your existing floor surface.
  • Grab rails can assist to move safely within the shower, and can also provide extra help with getting on and off of the toilet, and in and out of the bath.
  • Toilet seat raisers are designed to increase the height of your toilet seat to assist with getting on and off of the toilet.
  • Shampoo basins can be used for washing your hair outside of the shower or bath.
  • Mirrors with magnified lenses may be handy for those who find it difficult to see. Mirrors with pivots and flexible handles for those hard-to-view places are also available.
  • Pill splitters and crushers and various medication dosage boxes are available to assist with organising and managing your medication.

For further information or to make an appointment to visit the display please contact the Independent Living Centre: /www.ilc.asn.au/

*Source: Disability SA Independent Living Centre

Kitchens Meeting Everyone’s Needs

Whether you are looking for information on modifying a kitchen for a church hall or designing a workplace staffroom, aiming to meet multiple user’s needs can be a challenge. There are general principles, which can help achieve a kitchen that can be accessible for most of the population. The two Australian Standards which can be useful for reference are AS 1428.2 – 1992 and AS 4299 – 1995.

The most important features of design are

Kitchen Layout

Choice of mmaterials

Worktops

Sinks

Storage

Taps

Flooring

Switches

Electrical Appliances

Lighting

*Source: Disability SA Independent Living Centre

Kitchen and Mealtime Gadgets

Working in the kitchen can be a great joy, but with the onset of injury, age or disability it can become increasingly frustrating as everyday tasks become more awkward to perform.

The following gadgets and gismos are designed to make everyday kitchen tasks simpler and more achievable.

Meal prep: Preparing meals can be challenging if you no longer have full working use of both hands. Some suggestions for working around this include:

* A kettle tipper which holds the jug/kettle in place and can be pushed or tipped on its frame (rather than lifted) to pour a drink
* A pan handle holder which attaches to a stove top via a magnet or suction cups and stabilises the saucepan handle to eliminate movement when stirring.
* Suction cups or non slip matting attached or placed under items such as mixing bowls, chopping boards or food plates to assist in holding them in place.
* Rust proof spikes fixed into a chopping board to hold food in place while it is being chopped or peeled. Raised edging along the chopping board to act as a stabiliser when buttering bread.

Other useful kitchen aids include:

* Bottle and jar openers including models designed to provide extra grip and leverage when opening ring pull cans, soft drink and juice bottles, and child proof pill bottles.
* Can openers; manual, wall mounted or electric.
* Devices to assist in taking the strain off hands and fingers when carrying shopping bags.
* Long handled reachers to assist with cleaning the back of the oven, pushing in/pulling out oven racks, reaching and turning a hard to get stove knob, or grabbing a tin out from the back of the cupboard.
* If decreased vision is an issue a talking kitchen scale or liquid level indicator which makes a buzzing sound when the liquid nears the top of the cup.
* A tray mobile for carrying heavy items between the kitchen and the dining table.
* Cooking utensils with larger built up handles and/or moulded grips for decreased hand strength or dexterity.
* Vegetable peelers with larger, contoured grips or angled blades.
* A right angled knife for food preparation. These keep the wrist in a more neutral position and encourage sawing action for cutting. This encourages the use of the larger, stronger arm muscles and taking some of the strain off the small joints of the hand.

Mealtime: There is a range of adaptive equipment which may assist during mealtime, including:

Cutlery:

* Cutlery with larger built up handles and/or moulded grips. Foam tubing can be used to build up the handles of existing cutlery or utensils and is a cheaper alternative to purchasing new items.
* Weighted cutlery may be used to provide additional control over unwanted tremors
* Lightweight cutlery for decreased hand strength.
* Cutlery coated with a soft plastic to protect the teeth of users who have a strong biting reflex.
* Deeper bowls and angled cutlery heads for decreased movement of the shoulders, wrists and /or arms
* If eating with only one hand, a rocker knife or combination cutlery (i.e. a spoon combined with a fork or fork with a knife) may be of use. If using the combined cutlery it is important to be aware of sharp edges if there is decreased sensation in the mouth or shaky movements of the hand.
* An adjustable hand strap for holding utensils without using fingers. The strap wraps around the palm of the hand and the cutlery slides into a little pouch on the side.

Plates:

* Adding suction cups or non slip matting to the bottom of a plate to hold it in place when eating.
* A plate with a raised edge, or adding a clip on plate guard to the side of a flat plate, to prevent food from slipping off the side of the plate, or if only using one utensil to eat with, to provide a solid edge to push food up against.
* Some plates have in build heat retaining systems to help keep food warm for slower eaters.

Cups:

* Cups with two handles to provide extra stability.
* Cups with cut out sections for the nose to assist if the user can not tip their head back to drink.
* Cups with larger, moulded handles.
* A feeder spout can eliminate any chance of spills and help direct liquid to the mouth.
* Plastic cups are slow to conduct heat and may be useful for decreased hand sensation.
* An insulated cup to keep liquid warm for slow drinkers.
* A cup with a weight in the bottom to improve control in the case of hand tremors. However users need to be aware of increased fatigue with the increased load.
* Straws with a non-return valve to prevent the liquid from draining back into the cup.

Other things to consider:
Sometimes the environment we work in can be just as significant as the gadgets that we use and it is important to keep this in mind. Consider the layout of the kitchen, such as the location of cooking utensils and food items, the height of benches and work surfaces. Think about where people will be eating and how the food and utensils will be taken there. Could a tray mobile be of assistance? Could re-arranging the location of heavy, frequently used items assist?

For further information on kitchen gadgets, kitchen layout and design or to make an appointment to view the large range of kitchen and mealtime gadgets on display, please contact the Independent Living Centre: www.ilc.asn.au/

*Source: Disability SA Independent Living Centre

Preventing falls in the garden

RAISED GARDEN BEDS

Has gardening become a back breaking chore for you? Are you finding it increasingly difficult to work in your garden at ground level? Why don’t you consider a Raised Garden Bed?

TYPES OF RAISED GARDEN BEDS

Table Top: These gardens are easy to construct & are particularly useful for wheelchair access.
Shallow soil beds do require frequent watering.

Angled Table Top: The angled base allows greater soil depth and also wheelchair access.

Box Type: Easily constructed in many different shapes and sizes, gardeners are free to stand, sit or move around if desired.

Garden Wall: These attractive gardens can be constructed to an appropriate height for the individual when there is limited space available.

RECOMMENDED DIMENSIONS

The following dimensions are the recommended standards for heights and widths:
• height when standing: 750m-900mm
• height when sitting: 600mm
• width (access from one side): 500mm - 600mm
• width (access from both sides): 1000mm - 1200mm

ADVANTAGES OF RAISED GARDEN BEDS

• The garden can be raised to a height you are comfortable working at.
• Gardens can be designed to meet your individual requirements and personal tastes.
• They are suitable for most homes and gardens.

SOME IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS

When designing your raised garden bed, consider the following points:
• The materials & costs involved -remember there are many inexpensive options available.
• Building or construction should be completed by a qualified person - it is important to ensure that safety standards are met and the design meets your individual requirements.
• Ensure you have been advised and are aware of the maintenance required for your gardens upkeep - the type of plants you choose will effect this.

*Source: Disability SA Independent Living Centre

EQUIPMENT THAT TRAVELS WITH YOU

It can be daunting to consider holidaying with a disability or injury when there is a need for equipment. Many items are now available which fold or dismantle to fit into tight spaces. Some products can be purchased in disposable forms that are convenient for short term use. Consider hiring equipment at your destination to save on room.

Personal care equipment

* Static shower chairs, toilet surrounds and toilet seat raisers are available which fold almost flat and can be transported in the boot of a car.
* Commodes which accommodate a pan or bucket with handle are also available in folding varieties. One model has a powered lifting mechanism to assist with sitting and standing. A folding rear wheel drive self propelled or attendant propelled shower chair which can be used over a toilet is another option.
* There are also disposable and reusable urinals suitable for men and women which can hold up to 1500mm of liquid. These are an option for emergencies or long car trips.
* The website www.toiletmap.gov.au is helpful in locating wheelchair accessible public toilets around Australia prior to travel.
* Small aids which fold for convenience include a collapsible dressing stick, folding bottom wiper, folding long handled brush or comb and a folding lotion applicator for hard to reach areas – great for sunscreen.

Meals

* For anyone who uses a sawing or rocking action to cut food there a folding knives available. The blades safely fold away when not in use. Small lengths of foam tubing are easily carried and can be added to cutlery and other items to improve grip.

Bedding

* Solutions for a person who requires support in bed include adjustable back rests which fold flat for storage or electrically powered portable back rests which will raise a mattress or pillow.

Continence

* Disposable bed and chair protectors can be purchased in a range of sizes and absorbencies. Consider disposable continence pads or pants instead of reusable products for convenience while on holiday.

Communication

* A talking travel alarm clock which is activated by the push of a button may assist someone with a visual impairment.
* A portable book rest which dismantles and fold flat for travel is ideal for supporting a book or magazine.

Mobility

* There are lightweight travel wheelchairs which are compact when folded. These are designed for short term use.
* There are several lightweight scooters which fold or dismantle. These are most suitable for indoor use.

Lifting and transferring

* Hoists which dismantle and fold for storage or transportation are an option for a person needing assistance with transfers.
* Portable bath rails which clamp onto the bath can assist with getting in and out of a standard bath where required.

Recreation

* Various items are available for fishing, water skiing and beach going.
* Clamps and harnesses to hold a fishing rod can be used. A water-ski has been produced which allows the user to ski in a seated position. Attachments are available for walking sticks and crutches to allow beach access.

Independent Living Centre: www.ilc.asn.au/

*Source: Disability SA Independent Living Centre

The Working Environment Information Sheet
THE WORKING ENVIRONMENT

Preventing and reducing the risk of workplace injuries can be facilitated by making small changes to the working environment. Below are some ideas for changes to the workplace, alternative techniques and commercially available equipment that can assist you to do your job.

Changes to the workplace environment

* Prevent glare from a computer monitor, whiteboard or window by using curtains or blinds, or, if possible, relocate the item to an area with less glare.
* Reduce clutter by ensuring your work area is tidy and free from tripping hazards.
* Ensure the computer monitor is at an appropriate height. The top of the computer monitor should be at head height so that the screen falls within your normal line of sight when sitting on your chair without bowing your head or neck.
* If standing, most work should be done between hip and shoulder height.
* If multiple users are working from one desk, make sure you adjust the height of chair/desk before you begin activities.
* Organise your work area. Put frequently used items within easy reach, lightweight items on shelving above your desk, and heavy/rarely used items in a more accessible area.
* Take regular breaks to stretch, drink water and look elsewhere to rest your eyes.
* Use an air conditioner, electric fan, or open a window for adequate air. This also assists to maintain an appropriate temperature of your work area for the climate.

Alternative methods for workplace tasks

* Avoid carrying heavy items. If possible, slide an item across a bench or desk.
* If another person is available, ask them to help you lift or carry a heavy item.
* When carrying or lifting items, ensure you have a good grip, bend your knees, keep an upright posture and hold the item close to your body.
* If you have to reach high for items, use a ladder or footstall if possible.
* If reaching for items placed down low or on the floor, bend or kneel down.
* Take rest breaks and do some stretches throughout the working day.
* Change your posture and vary the tasks you are working on from time to time.

Equipment

* A wide range of equipment is commercially available to assist people to undertake activities within their workplace. The Independent Living Centre has a range of vocational equipment on display. These include: writing aids and pencil grips - encourage the correct positioning of the fingers on pens and pencils - guides and templates encourage writing in straight lines
* book holders and copy holders - save desk space - improve posture by reducing the need to bow your head
* fixed and adjustable height desks and workstations - desks should have sufficient space for all required items, be at an appropriate height and you should be able to rest your elbows comfortably on it. - desk legs should not restrict your movement.
* wrist and forearm supports - used on desks for writing or for computer use (for typing or using a mouse) - reduce strain on the wrists and forearms - encourage an ergonomic position
* laptop computer holders - height and angle adjustable to reduce the need to bow the head and change the angle of the keyboard
* stools, footrests and chairs - chair size should be appropriate to suit your body and the chair should support your thighs, provide a comfortable and supportive seating position and be an appropriate height for you and the desk (both feet should rest flat on the floor) - ensure armrest height is appropriate and comfortable. - range includes adjustable height chairs, sit-kneel chairs, various gas lift stools
* backrests, neck and lumbar supports - encourage good posture and support the back and neck
* portable and angled work surfaces - tilting the desk surface towards you encourages good neck posture - portable for multiple users/work areas
* workstation accessories - computer screen filters to reduce glare - various lights and lamps provide adequate lighting and reduce the risk of eye strain and maintain alertness
* switches, computer mice and keyboards - foot operated or hands-free (head or infra-red operated) computer mice - large button mice, switch mice - large button keyboards with alternative layouts for vision and ease of use
* keyboard platforms and monitor supports - increase the height of the computer monitor to encourage correct posture - change the angle/increase the height of a keyboard for alternative wrist and hand positioning
* work tools - tools with ergonomic handles for easier grip
* industrial trolleys and carts - reduce the need to lift and carry heavy items
* industrial mats and floor treatments - slip-resistant flooring reduces the risk of slipping or falling on flooring surfaces - anti-fatigue flooring helps to reduce pain and fatigue from standing or walking for long periods of time
* storage systems - promote tidiness and organisation and improve safety by removing clutter

Brochures are available from the Independent Living Centre on “How to Adjust Your Work Chair”, “Writing Aids” and “Selecting the Right Chair”. They contain information that may be helpful and are free of charge: www.ilc.asn.au/

*Source: Disability SA Independent Living Centre

Hoists (ILC) - PDF

*Source: Disability SA Independent Living Centre