There is a range of equipment available to help maintain your independence when eating and drinking. From making changes to your existing cutlery to adaptive eating and drinking aids there are a lot of options available to you.
Equipment can be privately purchased from a wide range of retailers both online and on the high street. If you feel that you need further information or advice, please contact William Merritt Centre for impartial and professional advice and assessment, or call Adult Social Care on 0113 222 4401 to make a referral for assessment with the Leeds Equipment Service.
Adaptive cutlery
Adaptive cutlery is a type of utensil that is designed to help people with disabilities or difficulties to eat independently. Adaptive cutlery can have different features, such as built-up handles, ergonomic shapes, lightweight or heavy materials, or one-handed use. A change as simple as using cutlery with a larger handle, or adding foam tubing to your cutlery, can make a big difference to someone struggling to grip standard cutlery.
Other types of adaptions which can improve grip and control include
- moulded grips
- weighted cutlery
- angled cutlery
You can find and buy these products online by
- searching eating aids in your browser
- Viewing a list of daily living aid providers on the Leeds Directory
Benefits
Can help people who have poor grip, decreased muscle control, tremors, upper limb weakness, hand pain, or reduced dexterity.
Things to consider
Check which 'handed' cutlery items the person needs.
Foam tubing and some moulded handles need to be removed before washing.