Equipment and Supplies

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Over the past three years I've found a need for a number of pieces of equipment and supplies that I didn't even know existed. I'm going to list them in this topic as I think of them.
The first item that comes to mind is a bedside commode. I was actually aware of it because we accumulated it on one of our knee surgeries. However, we had never used it and it was simply hidden away in a closet. When the time came that it was becoming obvious that the trip across the hall to the bathroom was one of my wife's most hazardous journeys, I decided it was time to dig it out and set it up in the computer room where she spends most of her time. It is still there and in fact I have added a second commode in the bedroom for use when we get her out of bed in the morning so I don't have to carry it back and forth.

When we first started using it I would simply empty the bucket into the toilet at the end of the day. Then I discovered on Amazon liners for the bucket that make the process much cleaner and easier to handle. Below is a link to that item. I'm not recommending a particular brand but this is one that I am using because I found it to fill my needs.
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B087QLH5BM?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details
As my wife has gained weight I discovered that the commodes we were using were not wide enough and I was actually able to find some on Amazon that had a wider seat and are much more comfortable for her. As a result, I actually have two commodes that I no longer need and I've discovered that I can't donate them to Dorcas or Goodwill because they've been used. I would be happy to give them to someone if they lived in the area and could come and get them.

Bob

My wife has trouble getting up from the toilet. I added grab bars in room where the toilet and shower tall are located off of our master bedroom. Unfortunately, that space is actually rather small and, even with the grab bars is hard for her to use. So I took the bedside commode we had gotten after her knee surgery and placed it over top of the toilet in our guest bathroom which is a bit more spacious. This way she has the handles of the beside commode available so that she can push her self up for the toilet. Both toilets are of the high profile type with also makes getting up easier for her (AND me!). And, none of the visitors that we get at the house have not had any problems 'using the facilities' when visiting.

Student

Bob Wow! It sounds like you've been really proactive in finding a solution that works for both your wife and your home setup. It's great to hear that you've found a way to make things more manageable. How has this adjustment been working out for her so far?

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I determined from the beginning of my wife's diagnosis of Alzheimer's that I would keep her here at home as long as I could possibly take care of her. Her condition has continued to deteriorate and she's been able to do less and less for herself. My primary concerns were how to get her in and out of bed when she could no longer do that for herself and how to perform the toileting needs that she would have.
About a year and a half ago I knew that it would soon be impossible for her to get herself into and out of bed. I ordered a Hoyer lift which she was positive she would never need but I knew that the day was coming when we would. When that day finally arrived I figured out that I wasn't going to be able to manage her and the lift by myself. By that time, she was unable to assist in any way. A mechanical lift is simply not a one person operation.
One of the people I had interviewed while looking for help from a caregiver company had suggested a sit-to-stand lift. I had never heard of a sit-to-stand-lift but I immediately began doing a research and soon convinced my doctor that I needed to change from the Hoyer lift to the sit-to-stand lift. Soon after that I began using it to get her into and out of bed. At that point she was still able to stand on her own feet so that I could get her from a chair to a commode and the back.
Then in the middle of June she was no longer able to stand even for that little process. After that we have needed to use the sit-to-stand lift anytime she moved from one device to another. By September I could see that soon she would no longer be able to use that lift because it required that she pulled herself up and it hurt her knees every time we to used it.
After doing some online research I determined that Medicare was not going to pay for a powered lift. So, I went to the Internet and ordered the lift that I'm now using. Below is a link to that lift. Again, I'm not recommending a product I'm simply showing what I have found to work for me.

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B000TEQUMO/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

The new lift was perfect for getting her in and out of bed but the challenge we now faced was how to use that lift for toileting. I did a lot of research on YouTube and other places trying to find a way that would allow me to use a lift and change her pants in the process of toileting. I was never able to find any information that was helpful. There are hundreds of videos out there showing how to use a lift to move someone to a toilet but they are all done with fully dressed people and the issue of changing their underwear is never demonstrated.
After some days of working with this my caregiver assistant and we developed a process that works wonderfully. Rather than describe it I'm going to attach a link here to a video I have made demonstrating that process. I realize many of you may never reach this situation and may never need to do what I have needed to do. However, if there are some who find themselves in this situation, I hope this will save them the hours and the dollars I have spent to find this solution.

https://youtu.be/DVqgxThStyM

Below are links to the sling devices that I am currently using.

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B0757BFLMV/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Patient Aid Padded Sit to Stand Lift Sling (PASA3), with Back Support Padding and Stand Assist Lifting Straps for Moving Patients 250-400 lbs, Large Transfer Sling Works with Most Patient Lifts

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07572MJD3/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Patient Aid Sit to Stand Lift Buttock Strap, Stand Assist Sling

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07S4CV54X/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
ProHeal Universal Full Body Lift Sling, Large, 55"L x 43" - Solid Fabric Polyester Slings for Patient Lifts - Compatible with Hoyer, Invacare, McKesson, Drive, Lumex, Joerns and
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07WCR589G/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
6 Pcs Lashing Strap Adjustable Cinch Strap with Buckles, 1" x 2 Ft Black Tie Down Straps Cam Strap Cam Lock Strap Cargo Packing Strap for Kayak, Roof Racks, Motorcycle, Car, Truck, Boat, Trailer

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One of the first challenges we faced was incontinence. She would wake up every morning totally soaked from head to toe. Meant a lot of laundry and a lot of cleaning up.
I generally skip the commercials on TV because I record everything and then play it back so I don't have to watch the commercials. A friend mentioned the Purewick machine and I eventually I actually watched one of those commercials. I called and checked on it it was going to be very expensive and insurance was not going to help. After thinking about it for a few days I finally decided it was probably worth the $500 it was going to cost to get started. Turns out to be one of the best decisions I ever made.

I purchased that in October of 2020 and she has not awakened soaked since then period. Prior to buying that machine she had UTI's on a regular basis. Since purchasing the machine, she has not had a UTI. That alone makes it worth it and not having to do laundry every day is a real plus.
If you haven't watched the commercials or become aware of this product you can go to purewick.com and find the information that you need. It turns out that insurance still won't pay for it but it's worth it anyway. The wicks are supposedly one time use and then throw them away. I quickly found a way to sterilize them so that I could reuse them and I'm still basically using the first box full. I haven't priced any recently but when I bought these it was $200 for a box of 30 intended to last you for one month unless of course you use more than one a day.

ExL

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How do you sterilize the Purewicks?

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Communication, Bathroom Equipment, Slings, Cameras, Cups, and Wheelchairs

Because this list is quite extensive, I will be posting in sections. I am not recommending or endorsing any of these items, I am simply sharing my experinence with them.

I'm creating this list in the hopes that it may be helpful to someone else. It is a fairly extensive list, but it is the list of all of the things that I've purchased in the last three years in the effort to make it possible to keep my wife at home. Some of these items actually worked well, some of them didn't work at all. I've included those because I think it's important to share what works and what doesn't work. I will share just a little bit about each one so the comment will be before the item.

My wife was officially diagnosed with Alzheimer's dementia in February of 2020. by January of 2021 there was a significant decline in her ability to do things. One of the very first things she lost was the ability to make a phone call or even to remember how to push the button if I had it programmed so she only had to push one button. So in January of 2021 I began buying things to try to make life better for both of us. One of the very first things I bought was this Echo Show 8. This device was a tremendous help for a long period of time. It allowed me to drop in on her if I was out shopping or at a doctor's appointment without her being required to do anything. I could see her sitting at her computer and talk to her in a video call. It had the ability to allow her to call me but she never figured out how to do that.
It also allowed her children to drop in and chat with her and during the COVID. This was very important because it was not really safe for them to come to visit. And some of them live some distance away.

Echo Show 8 (1st Gen, 2019 release) -- HD smart display with Alexa
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07PF1Y28C/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Very early in this process an occupational therapist came to make suggestions to make it safer for my wife as she moved about the house. We already had a walk-in shower but he suggested the shower chair and the grab bars. She never really liked the idea of using a shower chair but there came a time when that was the only way she could take a shower. These two items did help immensely, and I was able to later use the grab bar on top of her desk to help her pull herself up when she could still stand on her own.

Flash Furniture HERCULES Series 300 Lb. Capacity Adjustable Teal Bath & Shower Chair with Quick Release Back & Arms https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B084S9YJ32/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Blue Jay An Elite Healthcare Brand Shower Grab Bars to Use in Bathroom https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07STD3573/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

When she needed help getting up from our comfort height toilet I bought the seat listed below. This worked well for her until it was no longer safe for her to walk across the hall to the bathroom.

Essential Medical Supply Elevated Toilet Seat with Padded Arms, Elongated, 19 x 14 x 3.5 Inch
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CW811LK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&ps

Because she was unable to use the phone or even to remember how to use Echo 8 I decided to buy walkie talkies so that she could make contact with me wherever I was in the house of the yard. This seemed like a great idea at the time, but she never once was able to make it work even though most of the time all she had to do was talk. A great idea, it just didn't work because she couldn't remember how to do it. I find this is one of the big challenges with dementia.

Easy to Use Rechargeable Long Range Walky Talky Handheld Two Way Radio with NOAA for Hiking
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07XXZKKZZ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc

It took many attempts before I finally found the right solution for using a lift to move my wife around. The sling listed here is one I am still using everyday multiple times a day. I actually have two of them because occasionally they will get soiled and need to be laundered and it takes a little while for them to dry. I will talk more about slings and the ones that worked and didn't work later in this list.

ProHeal Universal Full Body Lift Sling, Medium, 50"L x 40" - Solid Fabric Polyester Slings for Patient
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07S5G84KZ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&ps

As the sole caregiver I was constantly concerned about where she was and how she was doing. Given that she could not answer a phone or call out with the phone, I was trying to find ways to use technology to accomplish this. I finally settled on this item below because it was relatively inexpensive. I eventually ended up with three of these cameras one in the bedroom, one in the computer room where she spent most of her time sitting at her computer, and one in the dining room which was useful while she was still able to get up and move around the house without help. Originally, they only charged $10 a year for cloud storage, and I could go back and see anytime that she moved and was able even to download that information and create videos from it. There have been times when that was very helpful. Particularly when I needed the doctor to actually see what was really happening. I no longer use the cloud service, but they do have SD cards that I read on my computer and see what went on. And I can monitor her sleep using the Echo 8, or on my phone. It is the only way that I know when she is waking up.

Nooie Dog Camera with Phone App, WiFi Pet Camera with SD Card, Indoor Home Security Camera
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08L9JYTQC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

This next sling worked but it was not nearly as useful as some of the others that I've tried.

31.5 Inch Padded Bed Transfer Nursing Sling for Patient, Elderly Safety Lifting Aids Home Bed https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08MTJY8JX/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

The sling below is one that I used the most, It was especially useful for helping her get out of a chair or up off the bed. In fact once we started using the sir-to-stand lift to get her out of bed this was a sling that she slept on at night and I could attach it to the lift to actually get her sitting up on the edge of the bed.

Patient Lift Sling Heavy Duty Transfer Sling for Movement Padded Patient Transfer Assist Belt for
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004IA49KA/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc

She never liked the gate belt, but we did use it during a period of time when she was using the walker and needed other support. It gave me several handles that I could get ahold of to make sure that she didn't fall as she was moving about the house.

TripWing Transfer Gait Belt with Handles and Quick Release Buckle
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09BZ8MGJ3/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

At some point she began to find it very difficult to hold on to a normal glass or cup. After she dropped several glasses, I decided it was time to find something to replace them with. The first thing I found was this item below. It was functional for some period of time however it was difficult to keep clean and not very sturdy when it comes to hot drinks.

Sammons Preston Small Cup with Built-In Straw, 13 oz. Sippy Cup with Secure Lid
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002BUE9VS/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I have since replaced them with the two items below.

Providence Spillproof 12oz Adult Sippy Cup with Handles - Independence Sip Cups for Adults with Limited Mobility https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08XYHZ725/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1

Hiware 12-Pack Reusable Stainless Steel Metal Straws with Case - Long Drinking Straws for 30 oz and 20 oz
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07D34ZNMH/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

In January of 2022 I was trying to find a better solution for her than the wheelchair that we were using. It is one that someone gave us because they no longer needed it, it had a standard 17 inch seat and because of her weight gain that was getting tight. I was also looking at transport chairs as maybe being easier for me to maneuver her around in. The two items below were my attempts to find something that worked better. It turned out neither one of them was satisfactory. The seats were actually narrower than our wheelchair and they were not nearly as sturdy as the wheelchair that she had been using. I was concerned that if we tried to go outside the front wheels would collapse. I was able to return one of them but the other turned out not to be returnable. Something I should have checked before I bought it, I ended up giving it to a friend who needed it.

Medline Lightweight Transport Wheelchair with Handbrakes https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0088N3BWA/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Health Line Massage Products 2 in 1 Rollator-Transport Chair w/Paded Seatrest
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07DGGLFTQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I searched for months for a wheelchair with a wider seat. Shortly after discovering the pressure wound just below my wife's tailbone in October of 2022, I finally hit the right combination of search words and found the wheelchair listed below. The unbelievable thing about this wheelchair is that even though the seat is 3 inches wider than a standard wheelchair it fits through a 28-inch opening. The arms are removable, it is very well built, and it has worked perfect since the day I got it.

Drive Medical Cruiser III Light Weight Wheelchair with Various Flip Back Arm Styles
and Front Rigging Options, Flip Back Removable Full Arms/Swing away Footrests, Black, 20 Inch
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002VWK2SK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

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Lifts, Slings, Commodes, Seat Cushions and More

Because this list is quite extensive, I will be posting in sections. I am not recommending or endorsing any of these items, I am simply sharing my experinence with them.

The first lift the doctor ordered for me was a standard mechanical Hoyer lift. I had it for several weeks before I actually tried to use it and I discovered immediately but I could not use it by myself. I simply couldn't operate the lift and manage my wife's position at the same time. Shortly after that I traded it for a sit to stand lift and that worked for about a year. When she could no longer help pull herself up and it hurt her knees too bad I needed to find a different list and discovered the one listed below. It is powered so Medicare won't pay for it but it's been worth every penny I paid for it because I can use it without help and safely transport my wife wherever I need to put her. It has worked perfectly from day one and I simply wish I had known about it in the first place it would have saved me a lot of money.

Lumex Battery-Powered Patient Lift, Electric Cradle System, 400 lb. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000TEQUMO/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I bought this sling in hopes that I could use it for toileting, however it proved to be too uncomfortable, and I never actually figured out a way to make it work with the lift we had for toileting. It may be that we never quite figured it out, but it has never really been used.

Toileting Sling (PA122M), with Lower Back Support and Lifting Straps for Moving Patients to and from Comm https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07G2X1VBM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

The sling that came with the sit to stand lift did not have a strap on the back to pull the patient into a seat or commode. I bought this sling because it has that feature.

Patient Aid Padded Sit to Stand Lift Sling (PASA3), with Back Support Padding and Stand Assist Lifting https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0757BFLMV/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

This sling turned out to be the key to doing toileting with a Hoyer lift. I have two of them and you can see how I use them in this video.
https://youtu.be/DVqgxThStyM

Patient Aid Sit to Stand Lift Buttock Strap, Stand Assist Sling
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07572MJD3/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

When you start using a commode or when a person becomes bedfast you discover odors that you would like to get rid of. After some research this I found this solution which is not only effective it's very economical.

AmazonCommercial Dissolvable Odor Eliminator Refill Jar - 12 Pacs
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08155WWZR/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I figured out that the commode we had was simply not wide enough because of the weight she had gained. I ended up buying two of the item below so that I would have one in each room where we use them.

MedPro Defense Comfort Plus Commode Chair with Adjustable Height and Extra Wide Ergonomic Seat
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07LFVVCHG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

When we first started using the commode I simply emptied the bucket into the toilet at the end of the day. That turned out sometimes to be a problem and I found these commode liners by accident one day as I was searching for things on Amazon. They have proven to be a really good solution for managing the commode.

Lunderg Commode Liners - Value Pack 250 Count Universal Fit - Medical Grade Bedside Commode Liners
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B087QLH5BM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Because sitting for hours in a wheelchair is obviously uncomfortable, I've done things to make it as comfortable as possible. This is the first seat cushion I purchased, and it is still in use, I actually use it under the other cushions listed below.

DMI Seat Cushion and Chair Cushion for Office Chairs, Wheelchairs,
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000FZVTPU/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

This item has been very useful. I have two of them, the covers are washable if they get soiled and that gives me an opportunity to wash one while she's using the other.

Gel Seat Cushion for Pressure Sores Breathable Honeycomb Cushion
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08LMW3YGW/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

When we discovered her pressure sore, I ordered the item listed next. And then I found out from the wound care nurses that doughnut cushions are no longer considered a good solution. I've actually tried sitting on it a couple of times myself and did not find it comfortable, so it's never been used.

AnboCare Donut Pillow Gel Seat Cushion Orthopedic Donut Cushion, Premium Memory Foam Seat Pad
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B075W29V89/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Someone on the forum recently mentioned inflatable seat cushions which I hadn't even thought about so I purchased the item item below and it seems to work pretty well.

MENURSY Bedridden Inflatable Seat Cushion Anti-Bedsore Wheelchair Air Seat Pad
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BMLM4ZKX/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Sitting for hours in a wheelchair with her legs hanging straight down on the standard foot rests has sometimes cause pain in her thighs and knees. I've purchased this item to see if that might solve that issue. Since I just got it, time will tell whether it does the job or not. They do make it more difficult to get through a door and I have to remove them to move her from one room to another and then put them back on.

NCAREFOR Wheelchair Elevating Legrests ，Composite Footplates with Padded Calf Supports,
for Standard Wheelchairs,1 Pair
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09P4VPQKD?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details

Because she wears compression hiking socks (recommended by her doctor) to prevent swelling in her legs from sitting all day I discovered the item below which made putting the socks on much easier for both of us.

OPOVE Sock Aid Premium Socks Helper with Foam Handles and 31" Adjustable Cords for Elderly
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B094JY2ZLD/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

When I became aware of the problems that bed sores generate, I decided to purchase this Alternating Air Pressure Mattress. I placed it on top of her regular mattress, and she's never complained in any way about using it. I believe it is keeping her from developing bed sores. She now spends about 16 to 20 hours a day in bed and bed sores would be a real possibility without something like this. It was economical, easy to set up and it has proven to work very well.

MedVance Premium Alternating Air Pressure Mattress,
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09NCJLHVP/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

In the videos I have created that can be seen in other posts on this site I talk about using straps to hold together the shoulder harness so that it doesn't pull her arms out of the socket. Originally, I used some old belts that I cut off and punched new holes in. It proved to me more pressure than they could stand, and they soon came apart. I found this item and while it needed a bit of modification it has worked quite well. The modifications I had made had to do with making the ends stiff enough to push through the buckle more easily. These nylon straps are very flexible, and it was difficult to push that flexible end through the slot in the buckle. What I ended up doing was using a common fire stick and exposing the end of the strap to heat for just a few seconds to melt it just enough to make it stiff. Then I trimmed it to a more pointed shape so that I could insert it more easily into the slot. You can see that video here.
https://youtu.be/DVqgxThStyM

6 Pcs Lashing Strap Adjustable Cinch Strap with Buckles, 1" x 2 Ft Black Tie Down Straps
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07WCR589G/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

We have deep pile carpet in the rooms where I need to move her in the wheelchair. Originally, I thought I could get by with just the plastic runners so I bought this clear plastic floor runner for deep pile carpet. I soon learned that wasn't enough and I ended up putting plywood under the vinyl runner. This had the effect of pushing all the little hooks that are on the underside of the runners for deep pile up through the runner. Probably wouldn't be a problem except that I tend to not wear shoes and those little pokey things sticking up aren't terribly comfortable to walk on. If you have hardwood floors you don't need these runners but if you have deep pile carpet then it makes sense to buy the runner for hardwood floors and put the plywood down under it. I find half inch plywood works just fine.

RESILIA - Clear Vinyl Plastic Floor Runner/Protector for Hard Floors
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08BC7N61F/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

From time to time my wife develops a condition that causes her to lean to the right rather severely. It looks very uncomfortable although she doesn't normally complain about it but in an effort to help keep her more upright I purchased this harness. It actually served two functions it helps keep her more vertical in the wheelchair and it kept her from being able to get out of the wheelchair when she could still actually get up and walk. It gave me a feeling of security knowing she couldn't just fall out of the wheelchair.

Wheelchair Seat Belt,Wheelchair Harness Adult,Wheelchair Belts to Prevent Sliding,Wheelchair
Restraints for Elderly Patient Disabled,FUSHIDA Constraint Jacket,Chest Posey Vest Restraint Belt
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07Q435M76/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

At one point while she was still able to stand and walk it became very difficult for her to pivot 90 degrees. So when she stood up from her wheelchair and had to pivot 90 degrees to sit down on the commode that was a problem. I purchased the item below in an effort to help solve that and it actually worked, but it's pretty tricky to use. It is very difficult to stabilize her and turn her safely 90 degrees. I probably only used it half a dozen times and finally decided that there had to be a better way of doing things. My solution at the time was to use the grab bar referred to in an earlier part of this list and attach it to the top of her desk. Then I could put the wheelchair in front of the grab bar and she could pull herself up to a standing position. I could move the wheelchair out and put the commode behind her. We could then reverse the process to get her back in her chair.

Vive Pivot Disc – Patient Transfer Board - Mobility Standing Device - 360 Degree Rotation
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08D9SLFFW/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

During the period of time before we got the lift working I would pick her legs up after she sat on the edge of the bed and try to turn her into bed. That was difficult for both of us and I purchased this transfer board as a we to help pry her legs over into the center of her side of the bed. It actually worked pretty well until we found better ways of getting her in bed.

DMI Transfer Board and Slide Board, FSA Eligible, Made of Heavy-Duty Wood for Patient
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000WNJU1A/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

We both take a large number of pills and managing her pills has been my responsibility for at least two years. These large pill boxes have proven to be a good solution for managing pills for both of us.

Extra Large Weekly Pill Organizer (4 Times a Day )- 7 Day XL Pill Boxes with 28 Large Compartments
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08RDD57F4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

When feeding herself got to be messier because she drops food on her clothing, I found these adult bibs to be a really good solution.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09HWXNVVF/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

When she could no longer get in the shower to wash her hair keeping her hair clean became very challenging. This item was my first attempt at actually trying to wash your hair without putting her in the shower. It was difficult to get her close enough to the sink in a wheelchair, but it actually worked. It was just a little messy and she got pretty wet but we got her hair washed. I've used it a couple of times since and used the lift to move her from her wheelchair to a dining room chair to get her closer to the sink. Still a bit messy but it does get the job done.

Chrome Cherry Mobile Salon - Portable Inflatable Rinse Basin for Washing
and Cutting Hair at Home and in Bed Without a Salon Chair
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07684TD82/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

This item has made that much easier to accomplish without getting her and her clothes all wet..

CLEANSE Deluxe Rinse Free Shampoo and Conditioning Cap – 5 Pack
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07X1WJHCZ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

In January of 2020 she began to have a great deal of difficulty holding a spoon or a fork while she ate. I discovered this set of silverware that she still uses to this day. It has worked very well for her.

Disability Parkinsons Arthritis Aid Handicapped Hand Muscle Weakness Large Grip Built Up Utensils
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0793MN21R/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

MoniqueFrahm

dvellio Amazing resources, Don!

dvellio

Another item that has been useful for my wife is this set of silverware. At times she has had severe body tremors making it difficult for her to hold a spoon or a fork. And in fact now in this late stage she has some trouble feeding herself with these but they have served her well for the last two years.

BUNMO Adaptive Utensils - Weighted Knives Forks and Spoons Silverware Set for Elderly People Disability Parkinsons Arthritis Aid Handicapped Hand Muscle Weakness Large Grip Built Up Utensils

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0793MN21R/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

KEB

A new, inflatable gait-belt-like device for preventing fall injuries that may help some, once it comes to the general consumer market (now seems limited to senior care communities, hospitals, etc): https://www.tangobelt.com/

Found by a friend, I haven't been able to try it yet or find how or where to purchase...

dvellio

KEB
I sent an enquiry to the company and here is the response I got.

Thank you for your interest in the Tango Belt! We are excited to share that we are conducting a clinical trial with the Tango Belt in an effort to make the technology more available in the healthcare system. Due to this, we will be suspending sales to new customers. If you would like to share any information about your interest in the Tango Belt, please feel free to use the provided link to complete our anonymous survey, used to better inform our product by clicking here.

If you do not already receive our newsletter, please feel free to add your email address to the newsletter section on the bottom of our website to stay current with relevant news, updates, and future availability. We thank you for your understanding and support.

Sincerely,

The Tango Team
info@tangobelt.com

KEB

THANK YOU hugely for the many specific resources and advice, dvellio! Wildly helpful even to someone who's devoted tons of time and research to looking for many of the kinds of assistance you've listed (often unsuccessfully, and all while balancing, you know, everything else).

dvellio

Here is an item that I wish I had known about. Keeping my wife clean was a big chalenge.

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=portable+bidet&crid=3AJUD5VRHLJNM&sprefix=portable+b%2Caps%2C150&ref=nb_sb_ss_ts-doa-p_3_10

dvellio

ExL
The link below will take you to the description of that process. Being able to clean the wicks saved me thousands of dollars in the three years she used the Purewick system.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YXnmf02rDYsbiI7SddruIJNc_5BmfeQE/view?usp=sharing

dvellio

S-AIRBAG Unisex Elderly Anti Fall Airbag Vest

I just found this item and it looks expensive but does say it is reusable. If you are caring for someone who is a fall risk it would be cheaper than a trip to the hospital.
https://www.amazon.com/S-AIRBAG-Protection-Intelligent-Protective-Epileptic/dp/B0CCJ8D8G1/ref=sr_1_2?crid=3O217M9RJ3JCM&keywords=wearable+air+bags+for+the+elderly&qid=1704764130&sprefix=wearable+air+bags%2Caps%2C99&sr=8-2

Youtube video link.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT0KPmtoIwI

Azulhotdog

Thanks dvellio for your advice very helpful..

dvellio

Portable water flosser.

This may be a good option for helping clean someone else’s teeth. I haven’t tried it, but I probably would have if I had seen it when I was taking care of my wife.
Be sure to check buying options for prices.

https://www.amazon.com/Ontel-H-Shaped-Flossing-Cordless-Rechargeable/dp/B0CDSYRKMW/ref=sr_1_5?crid=MXGBCDPBD75A&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.S599Sb3PArfWy_nBk1XFjG1dkbA3m5Lw3rJ-JaQHpYP4AR-nRp9-5UZBImhWIPPONp9wm2xWWSyaFjkWKpu--sKqiukt-Nja8I5zOi9FpHBB8NoTMynMilZIf0nCpusM7Fbki0jRQZuO86weAkcNW6wM7bPDTbYhUOQpL4GZHPZ5PG_NmKxh6myIp_7V-6S0fhmVOcPGy6ks8tFLrh7JLFJEIH7jFJpPyTuBOi8EwLVPW1h53qPmr1jaKpSCQIhgwYMzFXZTlA3t2lOJSS23zfp80vWq-sD1SPpvS-EZwgY.R6rLmK6BCsaF2VrmM8OZKfxltPXkOKuzs45lAyYuO4s&dib_tag=se&keywords=ontel+miracle+smile+water+flosser+for+teeth&qid=1708812390&sprefix=Ontel+Miracle+Smile+Water+Flosser%2Caps%2C82&sr=8-5

dvellio

More equipment you may find useful.

Tubular Slide Sheet for Patient Transfer, Sliding Draw Sheets to Assist Moving Elderly - for Cars, Vehicles, Wheelchairs and Bed - Hospitals & Home Care (Lake Blue,28"x47"(72x120cm))

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0978WXV4N/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Carousel Sliding Shower Chair Tub Transfer Bench with Swivel Seat, Premium Padded Bath, with Pivoting Arms, Adjustable Space Saving Design for Tubs, Inside Shower, for Handicap & Seniors, Blue

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0184P0UZ2?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details