Devices for independent living

There are plenty of clever devices and inventions that can maintain your independence in your own home for longer. However, at times it can be hard to know where to look for useful items. We have provided you with some links to products and retailers that may make your life easier.

There are numerous gadgets that can make life easier, from flexible jar openers to a tool that will assist you with your buttons and zippers.  If you need something for around the home then the Independent Living Charitable Trust is the place to go. They have every aspect of life covered and with show rooms throughout the country, you can visit them or you can browse online.  

Eldernet has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to any questions you may have or if you are looking for specialised services. For example, they have information on what to think about if you are looking to downsize (click here for this article) or, if you are looking for specific equipment or advice,  click here for more information from Eldernet.

Although, it is well recognised that we have an aging population there are few mainstream businesses that are embracing the challenge of creating products that are suitable for all abilities. However, slowly but surely some are beginning to stock such products, for example The Warehouse now has an item that helps people put on socks and stockings without bending over, called The Sock Slider.

Retail giant Ikea is breaking the mould by looking at ways to cater for individuals of all abilities. In April this year, Ikea released the first of its accessible furniture range – ThisAbles – to the market. Items include curtain handles to make it easier to open and close the shower curtain, a lamp button enlarger, couch lift, and more. To check out more Ikea’s ThisAbles project click here.  It isn’t yet clear whether these items will come pre-assembled, and, at present they aren’t available in New Zealand.

However, that is soon to change with an Auckland store in the pipeline. Watch this space!

Whatever, your shopping needs. Whether you need assistance getting to and from a store or help to retrieve items from shelves, you can hire one of Mycare’s independent contractors. To find out more about listing a job click here.

For more information contact Mycare's Customer Engagement Team on 09 887 9777 or at hello@mycare.co.nz.