Managing and Maintaining PADLs

Last updated on 07/02/2023

Caring for individuals with dementia, especially in long-term care settings, requires a profound commitment to empathy and compassion. It also involves implementing caregiving approaches that are specifically tailored to the unique needs of people with dementia.

Understanding Dementia and Its Impact on ADLs

Dementia is a progressive brain disease that leads to symptoms like memory loss, personality changes, behavioural shifts, impaired reasoning, and extreme mood fluctuations. Dementia most commonly affects seniors, and there are various types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s Disease (the most common), Vascular Dementia, Lewy Body Dementia, and Frontotemporal Dementia.

Each type of dementia presents its own distinct set of symptoms, and as such, individualised assessments are vital to ensuring that person-centred care is provided.

Approaches to Non-Cognitive Symptoms

The non-cognitive symptoms of dementia require specific management strategies:

Alzheimer’s Disease may benefit from Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST).
Vascular Dementia requires a focus on managing hypertension, diabetes, and cholesterol to prevent further brain damage. There is also a need to address low mood, which is common in vascular dementia.
Lewy Body Dementia management may focus on motor and cognitive symptoms, including managing sleep disturbances and hallucinations. Medications like antipsychotics may need to be avoided (see NICE Guidelines and National Guideline No. 21 for information).
Frontotemporal Dementia requires behavioural symptom management, often with the help of occupational therapy and behavioural management strategies.
For mixed dementia, a combination of therapies may be necessary.

Dementia care is highly specialised, aiming to help individuals maintain as much comfort and dignity as possible.

Effective Dementia Care Strategies

Given the complexity of dementia, caring for someone with this disease requires education, knowledge, and training. The following strategies highlight how to best care for someone with dementia and avoid actions that could worsen symptoms.

1. Get Support, Never Go It Alone

Caring for someone with dementia can lead to burnout and unsafe practices if attempted alone. It is essential to approach dementia care as a team effort. Seek support from caregivers who are specifically trained in dementia care to ensure the best possible outcomes for the individual.

2. Never Argue

People with dementia often experience confusion. Trying to correct them may cause anger, frustration, and worsen their confusion. Rather than pointing out that the person is wrong, it is better to create a calm and understanding environment and not engage in arguments.

3. Divert, Never Reason

Even when the intention of reasoning with a person with dementia comes from a place of care, it’s important to understand that for people with dementia, cognitive processing is impaired. This means that their memory and ability to think clearly is affected. As such, reasoning with them is ineffective. Instead of trying to explain things logically, divert their attention. For example, if they insist they need to go to work, you could suggest they have breakfast first and then change the topic.

4. Never Shame

If someone with dementia becomes upset by their actions, avoid shaming them. Instead, highlight positive aspects or accomplishments to maintain their dignity and comfort.

5. Reassure, Never Lecture

It can be tempting to lecture someone about the right way to do something, particularly if they’re experiencing a moment of lucidity. However, this can lead to frustration if they cannot fully understand or carry out your instructions. Instead, offer reassurance that they are doing their best and that they have people who care around them. This helps build confidence and a sense of support.

6. Reminisce, Never Say “Remember”

Memory can be clouded for people with dementia, making it difficult for them to recall certain details. Rather than saying, “Remember?”, offer gentle and thoughtful prompts without being attached to the outcome if they still can’t remember.

7. Repeat, Never Say “I Told You So”

Telling someone with dementia, “I told you so,” leads to shame and frustration. It’s not their fault that they behave a certain way or can’t remember something - these are symptoms of the disease. Instead, offer positive reinforcement and focus on successes, however small.

8. Ask, Never Demand

Dementia symptoms may fluctuate, so someone with dementia might be able to function normally at times and struggle at others. Rather than demanding something, gently ask, and be understanding if they can’t complete the task.

9. Encourage, Never Condescend

A gentle, encouraging approach is crucial in dementia care. “Tough love”, scolding or reprimanding can worsen feelings of anger, frustration, and insecurity - all of which will make the symptoms of dementia worse. Instead, find opportunities and ways to uplift and support, always being mindful of taking a more gentle tone.

10. Reinforce, Never Force

Caring for someone with dementia is tough. It can be particularly frustrating when there is a task that must be done, such as taking medication. Forcing a task (even when it’s important) can create more challenges. Instead, find ways to reinforce the action by making it a regular part of their routine. For example, giving medication at the same time and in the same setting each day helps form a habit, making it easier for the person with dementia to follow.

Communicating with Someone Who Has Dementia

When helping someone with their daily activities (ADLs), it’s important to listen to what they want. “No, I don’t want to!” means just that, even when spoken by someone with dementia.

Here are some tips for communicating with people who have dementia:

Make eye contact and stay calm. Keep your voice soft and soothing.
Repeat requests using the same words. Changing the way you ask can confuse them.
Engage with them by offering simple choices. For example, “Would you like orange juice or apple juice?”
Show empathy by saying things like “You must be cold” or “Are you uncomfortable in that chair?”
Ask for their input on how you can help, such as “What would help you right now?”
Respect their space - don’t get too close or crowd them.
Be mindful of your body language and the tone of your voice.
Speak at a comfortable speed and avoid rushing them.
Use calming activities like music or activities they enjoy.
Keep things simple - avoid overwhelming them with too many instructions.
Offer reassurance to help ease any worries.
Empathise with their feelings and acknowledge their concerns.
Avoid giving orders or sounding bossy.
Redirect their focus if needed by using distractions.
Stick to a routine to help them feel more settled and avoid confusion.
Encourage activities during the day to help them stay engaged.

The person may often try to cover up confusion and turn to others for help with simple tasks. It’s a natural response and common defence mechanisms for them can include denial, anger, and coming up with excuses. They may lose interest in activities or hobbies, and their mood might change, leading to feelings of depression or anxiety. Learning new things may become harder, and they might leave tasks unfinished. You may also notice changes in their judgment or personality.

Assisting With Daily Activities

Those with mild dementia may need very little help with daily tasks (if any), but it’s still helpful to keep these core principles in mind:

Dressing

Offer choices of clothes, but keep options limited. Too many choices can be overwhelming, but giving them a say fosters independence.
Set out clothing options for them if needed, but involve them in the selection process. Once chosen, set out clothes in the order they will be put on. This can provide a sense of autonomy while making the task easier.
Assist with dressing as needed, but encourage them to take the lead where possible. This helps maintain their sense of control.
Choose comfortable, easy-to-wear (and wash) clothes with elastic waistbands and Velcro closures, which are simpler to manage.
Use one-step commands and gestures to guide them through the process. Simple instructions help reduce confusion.
Encourage as much independence as possible. Let them do what they can, even if it takes a bit longer.

Grooming

Allow the person to groom themselves as much as possible. Provide the necessary tools (like a toothbrush or hairbrush) to encourage independence.
Monitor progress and offer assistance only when needed. Step in gently when necessary, but let them take the lead.
Limit choices to avoid overwhelming them. For example, ask, “Would you like to brush your hair?” or “Do you want to wear lipstick today?”
Encourage as much independence as they’re capable of. Let them handle tasks they can manage to promote a sense of accomplishment.

Eating

Provide assistance as needed, but allow the person to eat as independently as possible.
Move slowly and give one-step instructions to guide the person through the process.
Limit choices to avoid confusion. For example, ask, “Would you prefer soup or a sandwich?”
Ask for food preferences to encourage involvement and make mealtimes more enjoyable.
Encourage participation in meal preparation or setting the table when possible.
Provide adaptive utensils if needed, such as easy-grip forks or spoons.
Prepare the meal in advance, like opening packages or uncovering trays.
Monitor closely, especially during meals, to ensure they’re eating safely. Be ready to assist with feeding if required.
Offer liquids regularly and encourage hydration throughout the day.
Allow plenty of time to finish meals, as eating may take longer.

Bathing

Offer choices on when, where, and how to bathe. Giving options helps them feel more in control and less anxious.
Ask about bathing preferences (e.g., shower or bath). Some people may have a strong preference for one over the other.
Assist with bathing if necessary, but try to preserve their independence. The goal is to make them feel clean and comfortable.
Consider a sponge bath if a shower or tub bath is too difficult or uncomfortable. A sponge bath can still achieve cleanliness without the need for a full shower.
Retain familiar routines where possible (e.g., bath time rituals). Keeping some aspects of their previous bathing routine helps them feel more at ease.
Be mindful of safety and comfort —for example, make sure the bathroom is safe, with non-slip mats and easy access to the shower or tub.
Respect personal habits —for instance, some people may prefer bathing at a particular time of day or in a specific way. This respect for routine can reduce anxiety.

Toileting

Monitor and assist as needed, providing support during transfers and toileting.
Encourage regular fluid intake to promote healthy hydration, even though this may mean more frequent bathroom visits.
Ask regularly if the person needs to use the toilet, especially if they are unable to communicate their needs.
Provide close assistance with transfers and positioning to ensure safety and comfort.
Label bathroom doors to make it easier for the person to identify and access the toilet.
Establish a regular toileting schedule to promote consistency and prevent accidents.
Expect incontinence (both bowel and bladder) and be prepared to offer total care, including the use of pads or adult briefs as necessary.
Be mindful of medications that may affect bowel movements or urinary urgency, and adjust care as needed.

Supporting Dignity in Daily Care

Respecting and maintaining a person’s dignity is central to providing compassionate care. It's essential to treat individuals with dignity, honour their preferences, and ensure that they feel valued and respected, regardless of their condition or limitations.

Here are some practical ways to uphold a person’s dignity in daily care, ensuring they feel respected, comfortable, and valued:

Use Preferred Names
Find out what the person prefers to be called. Always use their chosen name, whether it's a more formal "Mr. Smith" or another name, and avoid using nicknames unless they prefer them. It’s important not to guess - ask.

Avoid Publicly Displaying Certain Signage
Don’t post signs that reveal personal or private information about the individual’s needs, such as incontinence, in public places. Place these reminders discreetly in private areas like a closet door or the communication centre on the back of the person’s bedroom door, not in view of visitors or others.

Sit at Eye Level When Assisting with Meals
When helping someone eat, sit down at their eye level instead of standing over them. This helps build a more compassionate, personal relationship and shows respect.

Honour Personal Style in Clothing Choices
Allow the person to express their style by offering choices in clothing that reflect their preferences. For instance, let them choose between two options or ensure they have multiples of a shirt they like to wear repeatedly. Remember, it’s about honouring their choice and style preferences, and not about what you think looks nice.

Cover a Catheter Bag
If the person has a urinary catheter, cover the bag with a cloth cover to maintain privacy and prevent others from focusing on it. These covers can be easily made or purchased.

Keep the Commode Clean and Discreet
When visitors are expected, clean the portable commode and move it out of sight. This respects the individual’s dignity by preventing others from noticing their need for assistance with toileting.

Store Incontinence Products Out of Sight
Avoid leaving clean incontinence products visible. Store them away in a drawer or discreet location to protect the person's privacy.

Promptly Address Incontinence
If a person can alert you about their need to use the bathroom, every effort must be made to respond promptly to prevent an incidence of incontinence.

Promptly Address Incontinence
If an episode of bladder or bowel incontinence occurs, assist the person as soon as possible by helping them change into clean, dry clothing. Prompt attention to their needs shows respect and prevents discomfort.

Speak Directly to the Person
Always speak to the individual directly, not about them. For example, instead of asking someone nearby, "How is Miles feeling?" when Miles is sitting close by, ask Miles directly. This ensures they remain the focus of the conversation. If necessary, have a meeting with family members or other care staff away from Miles.

Respect Preferences in Music, TV, and Media
Honour the person’s preferences for music, television, or radio instead of changing the channel or station to your liking. Respecting their choices not only preserves their dignity but can also help reduce anxiety and agitation, particularly for those living with dementia.

Place Towels Appropriately During Personal Care
When assisting with personal care, use towels strategically to maintain dignity and reduce vulnerability. This simple gesture can help prevent anxiety or discomfort.

Knock Before Entering a Room
Always knock before entering a resident’s room, whether in a nursing home or at home. This shows respect for their personal space and helps maintain their dignity.

Introduce Yourself
When entering a room, introduce yourself and explain why you're there. For instance, say, “Hi, it’s Margaret. I just wanted to check in and see if you need anything.” This makes the interaction more personal.

Avoid Pulling Someone Backwards in a Wheelchair
While it may seem like a quick way to move someone, pulling a wheelchair backwards - except in emergencies - can be disorienting, unsettling, and even frightening. Imagine being moved without being able to see where you're going or when you’ll stop. For someone with dementia, who may already struggle with spatial awareness, this can be especially distressing. Instead, always explain what you’re doing before moving them and ensure their feet are properly positioned on the footrests to prevent injury. If obstacles make it necessary to pull the chair backwards briefly, communicate with the person throughout to reassure them and maintain their dignity.

Provide Adequate Clothing and Privacy
Dignity is closely tied to feeling comfortable and appropriately dressed, especially in care settings. Being wheeled down a hallway in a shower cape, sitting in a commode chair without proper covering, or lying in bed partially dressed when visitors arrive can make a person feel vulnerable and exposed. Always ensure they have adequate clothing or a robe for warmth and privacy when moving between rooms, and use blankets or towels when necessary. If someone is resting in bed, keep doors or curtains closed unless they are fully dressed and comfortable with visitors. A little extra attention to privacy can go a long way in preserving their sense of self-respect and dignity.

Ensure Excellence in Grooming
Maintaining personal grooming is an important part of feeling dignified and respected. Even if someone with dementia is less aware of their appearance, ensuring they are well-groomed can boost their confidence and improve their overall well-being. Help them look their best by styling their hair in their usual way, assisting with makeup if they previously wore it, and ensuring facial hair is neatly trimmed. While some individuals may resist grooming, approach it with patience and reassurance, respecting their preferences as much as possible. Thoughtful attention to these small details can help maintain their identity and sense of self-worth.

Label Clothing Discreetly
If a label is necessary, be sure to label clothing in a discreet and respectful manner, such as on the clothing label rather than writing their name in large letters on the fabric. This ensures privacy and prevents the feeling of being “labelled.”

Honour Activity Preferences
Find out the person’s favourite activities and interests to ensure they are engaged in meaningful and enjoyable pastimes. Respect their preferences, whether it's watching a sports game or playing bingo.

Avoid Elderspeak
How we speak to someone with dementia has a profound impact on their sense of dignity. Using a sing-song tone, exaggerated pitch, or overly simplistic language— - often referred to as "elderspeak" - can come across as patronising, even if well-intended. Instead of calling someone "honey" or "sweetie," use their preferred name and speak in a respectful, adult-appropriate manner. Maintain a warm and friendly tone, but avoid talking down to them. Remember, your non-verbal communication - facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice - matters just as much as the words you say. Speaking with kindness and respect reinforces their identity and self-worth.

Staff Training and Education: Supporting Excellence in Dementia Care

Providing high-quality dementia care requires ongoing learning, practical experience, and a deep understanding of the condition. Staff need more than just mandatory training - they need continuous support, supervision, and opportunities for professional development to enhance their skills and confidence. Investing in ongoing education ensures caregivers can provide compassionate, informed, and person-centred care while adapting to the unique and evolving needs of individuals with dementia.

Training programs and courses may cover a wide range of essential topics, including:

Understanding Dementia – A comprehensive look at what dementia is, the different types, and how symptoms progress over time.
Managing Behavioural and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (BPSD) – Strategies for identifying and responding to behaviours such as agitation, aggression, or anxiety with empathy and effectiveness.
Living Well with Dementia – Exploring ways to enhance the quality of life for individuals with dementia, focusing on maintaining independence, dignity, and engagement.
Compassionate and Effective Communication – Techniques for ensuring that individuals with dementia feel heard, respected, and valued, even as their communication abilities change.
Activity Prescribing for Dementia – Developing meaningful, tailored activities that stimulate cognitive function, encourage social interaction, and promote well-being.
Recognising Dementia Subtypes – Understanding the varied signs and symptoms of different forms of dementia, such as Lewy Body Dementia and Frontotemporal Dementia, which may present unique challenges.
Differentiating Dementia from Other Conditions – Training to recognise and distinguish dementia from other medical or psychological conditions with similar symptoms, such as delirium or depression.
The Concept of ‘Living Well’ with Dementia – Exploring what it means to truly support individuals in leading fulfilling lives, despite cognitive decline.
Recognising Individual Priorities – Understanding what is most important to each person, allowing for care that aligns with their values, preferences, and routines.
Dementia’s Impact on Families and Society – Examining how dementia affects loved ones and the broader community, as well as how to provide family support.
Understanding and Responding to Distress – Recognising why distress occurs and learning de-escalation techniques to provide comfort and reassurance.
Caregiver Education and Resources – Ensuring that both professional and family caregivers have access to up-to-date knowledge, support, and coping strategies.
Person-centred Care (PCC) Approaches – Training on how to tailor care to the unique needs, preferences, and life history of each individual.
Dementia Care Mapping (DCM) – A tool for observing and improving care quality by assessing how individuals with dementia experience their environment and interactions.
Tailored Activity Programs (TAP) – Developing structured, individualised activity plans that align with a person’s interests, abilities, and needs to enhance engagement and reduce agitation.

By equipping staff with this knowledge and ensuring they feel supported in their role, caregivers can provide the highest standard of care - one that not only meets physical needs but also respects the emotional, social, and psychological well-being of every person living with dementia.

Physical and Sensory Considerations with Dementia

As dementia progresses, it can significantly impact a person’s physical abilities and sensory processing. Mobility, vision, hearing, and sensitivity to environmental factors can all change, affecting independence, comfort, and overall well-being. Understanding these challenges and responding with appropriate support can help maintain dignity, reduce distress, and improve quality of life.

Mobility Challenges

In the later stages of dementia, individuals may gradually lose their ability to walk, stand, or move independently. They may also become more prone to falls. These mobility challenges can arise due to:

The effects of dementia medications.
Other medical conditions such as strokes.
Reduced vision or difficulties with depth perception.
Problems with balance and coordination.
An uncomfortable or unsafe environment (e.g., clutter, slippery floors, poor lighting).

Careful monitoring, supportive equipment (such as walking aids or grab rails), and tailored physical therapy can help manage these changes and reduce the risk of injury.

Preventing Pressure Ulcers (Bedsores)

Limited mobility can lead to individuals spending prolonged periods sitting or lying in one position, increasing the risk of pressure ulcers (bedsores). These can develop when constant pressure on the skin restricts blood flow, leading to painful sores that may become infected if left untreated.

To prevent pressure ulcers:

Check the skin regularly for any signs of redness, rashes, or discolouration, especially over bony areas such as heels, hips, or the lower back.
Encourage regular movement, even small shifts in position, to relieve pressure.
Use pressure-relieving mattresses or cushions, which can be provided following an assessment by a nurse or occupational therapist.
Speak to a GP or community nurse at the first sign of skin damage to prevent complications.

Vision and Perception Difficulties

Certain types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies, vascular dementia, and posterior cortical atrophy (PCA), can affect how the brain processes visual information. This can lead to:

Difficulty recognising objects, faces, or places.
Problems with spatial awareness and depth perception, increasing the risk of falls.
Disorientation and confusion, even in familiar environments.
Visual hallucinations or misinterpretations of shadows, reflections, or patterns.

These issues may not be related to an actual eye condition but rather to how the brain interprets visual input. Adjusting the environment - such as improving lighting, reducing clutter, and using high-contrast colours for better visibility - can help individuals navigate their surroundings more easily.

Hearing and Auditory Processing

Dementia can also affect how the brain processes sound, leading to symptoms that may be mistaken for hearing loss. Some individuals may:

Experience auditory hallucinations (hearing sounds that aren’t there).
Struggle to follow conversations, especially in noisy settings.
Appear withdrawn or disengaged, which can be misinterpreted as a hearing impairment.

While actual hearing loss is also common in older adults, it’s important to distinguish between dementia-related communication challenges and genuine hearing issues. Regular hearing tests, clear communication strategies (such as speaking slowly and using visual cues), and minimising background noise can support better interactions.

Sensory Processing Changes

Dementia can alter a person’s sensitivity to sensory input, causing heightened (hypersensitivity) or reduced (hyposensitivity) responses to stimuli such as:

Touch – Light touch may feel painful, or firm pressure may be needed for comfort.
Temperature – The person may not recognise when they are too hot or cold.
Taste and Smell – Food may taste bland, or certain smells may become overwhelming.
Balance and Movement – Sensory confusion may lead to dizziness or instability.

These changes can make everyday experiences - such as bathing, dressing, and eating - distressing. For example, people with dementia have described feeling fearful and anxious, with the sensation of drowning, during a shower. Being aware of individual sensitivities and adjusting care approaches accordingly can significantly enhance comfort and well-being.

Top Tips for Supporting Sensory Needs

Start from the feet up when washing – This approach feels less invasive and allows time for the person to adjust to temperature and pressure changes.
Consider weighted blankets – These can provide a sense of security and comfort, reducing anxiety.
Use fidget items – Small tactile objects can help relieve agitation and provide sensory stimulation.
Manage environmental noise – Loud, chaotic environments can cause distress. Soft background music or quiet spaces can help create a more calming atmosphere.
Adjust lighting – Harsh lighting can be overstimulating or disorienting. Using dimmable or warm lighting can reduce agitation and improve relaxation.

Creating a Secure and Supportive Environment

Security for individuals with dementia goes beyond physical safety—it includes emotional security, familiarity, and confidence in their surroundings. By fostering a sense of comfort and stability, caregivers can help reduce confusion, anxiety, and distress.

Personalisation: Nurturing a Safe and Familiar Space A personalised environment can make a significant difference in helping individuals with dementia feel secure in their surroundings. Being surrounded by familiar objects provides reassurance and a sense of belonging, reducing feelings of disorientation or distress. Top Tip: Incorporate familiar and meaningful items such as personal photographs, cherished blankets, ornaments, or trinkets to create a home-like and comforting atmosphere.
Orientation: Helping Individuals Settle into Their Environment Moving into a new home or care setting can be disorienting and unsettling for a person with dementia. A structured orientation process can ease the transition, helping them feel safe and welcomed. Top Tip: Nursing homes can develop an orientation pack that includes:

Clear signposting to key areas (e.g., bedroom, bathroom, dining area).
A resident-matching or buddy system to foster peer support.
One-on-one introductions to key staff members and other residents.
Regular check-ins to ensure the person is adjusting well.
Perception: Understanding Changes in Awareness and Cognition Dementia can affect how a person perceives their environment, leading to challenges with visuospatial awareness, cognitive processing, and emotional responses. For example, they may misinterpret shadows, struggle with depth perception, or feel overwhelmed by bold patterns. Top Tips:
Provide a suitable walking aid if required to support mobility and balance.
Minimise sharp colour contrasts and bold patterns, which can be confusing or unsettling.
Use clear, high-contrast signage to help with navigation and wayfinding.
Postural Security: Supporting Physical Stability Postural security refers to a person’s ability to feel physically stable while sitting or moving. As dementia progresses, individuals may struggle with balance, posture, and maintaining a comfortable seated position. Proper support is essential to prevent discomfort, falls, or feelings of insecurity. Top Tip: Match the person with appropriate and supportive assistive aids, such as a therapeutic chair, to ensure comfort, stability, and postural alignment.

Recognising Life Transitions: Supporting the Emotional Journey

For individuals with dementia, the transition from a lifelong home to a care facility or nursing home can be a profoundly emotional experience. The upheaval of leaving familiar surroundings and routines can be disorienting and stressful. It is important for staff to recognise the psychological impact of such a life change, as it can often lead to feelings of grief, loss, and confusion.

This transition may be particularly traumatic if it occurs suddenly, without sufficient preparation or emotional support. Even with gradual transitions, it can take time for individuals to adjust to their new living situation and find a sense of security.

Recognising the emotional and psychological challenges of this transition is key to supporting individuals in the adjustment period. By being empathetic and patient, staff can help individuals feel valued and understood during this time of significant change.

Top Tips:

Allow time for adjustment: Give individuals the space and time they need to settle into their new environment without rushing them.
Encourage participation and socialisation: Gently invite individuals to engage in group activities or social events, making them feel included while respecting their readiness.
Nurture positive experiences: Use positive reinforcement to highlight and celebrate small achievements or positive interactions.
Promote positive language and activities: Ensure that the language used in interactions is uplifting and reassuring. Encourage activities that are familiar and enjoyable, creating moments of comfort and joy.

By creating a supportive, understanding, and patient environment, staff can help ease the emotional strain of such transitions, ultimately promoting a smoother adjustment period and fostering a positive experience in their new home.

Technology and Equipment that Can Help with ADLs

As people age or experience health challenges, maintaining independence in performing Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) can become increasingly difficult. However, the use of assistive technology and equipment can significantly enhance the ability to perform these tasks, making everyday activities easier and more accessible. Not only do these tools support the completion of ADLs, but they also help conserve energy, reduce strain, and give individuals more control over their daily routines.

For example, individuals who struggle to get up from a seated position, whether it's from a toilet seat, a chair, or the bed, can benefit from grab bars and bed rails. These provide much-needed stability and support when standing up. For those facing mobility challenges, walkers and wheelchairs allow them to move more freely and independently, reducing the effort required to get from one place to another.

Examples of Assistive Equipment to Improve ADLs

The following technologies and devices are simple but powerful solutions that can help older individuals complete their ADLs more easily, promoting greater autonomy and comfort:

Ramps – These make it easier to navigate steps or curbs, especially for individuals using wheelchairs or walkers.
Tilt-in-space chairs – These chairs help to reposition the body, reducing pressure and promoting better circulation for individuals with limited mobility.
Hearing aids – Crucial for improving communication and helping people with hearing loss stay engaged in conversations and aware of their surroundings.
Screen devices (tablets, Amazon Show, Google Nest) – These devices can be used for communication, entertainment, and reminders, as well as accessing important services.
Short audiobooks, Kindle, podcasts, and apps – Digital resources that promote mental stimulation, relaxation, and entertainment.
Buttoning aid hook – This simple tool makes it easier to button clothing, especially for individuals with limited dexterity.
Medical alert devices – Wearable devices that provide emergency assistance at the touch of a button, offering peace of mind.
Chair lifts – These are useful for individuals who have difficulty navigating stairs, providing a safe way to go up and down floors.
Toilet seat risers – Elevate the height of a toilet seat to reduce strain when sitting down or standing up.
Shower chairs – Allow individuals to bathe comfortably and safely while sitting, reducing the risk of falls.
Handheld shower heads – Make it easier to shower by allowing users to control the direction and flow of water.
Washcloth mitts – Designed for easy use when washing or bathing, these mitts provide better grip and comfort.
Kitchen utensils with larger handles – These utensils help individuals with arthritis or limited hand strength maintain independence in the kitchen.
Shoes with Velcro straps – These shoes eliminate the need for tying laces, providing convenience and safety.

Impact on Independence

Though these tools may seem simple, their effects can be life-changing. By enabling easier completion of daily tasks, they can help individuals maintain independence, confidence, and a higher quality of life as they age. The use of assistive technology and equipment not only provides physical support but also empowers individuals to continue engaging in their favourite activities, maintaining social interactions, and managing their health with greater ease.