Jan
30
2010
Did you know that, on average, 8,000 older people fall every day? Falls are often the biggest fear for older people.
The new range of Voice Alert Monitors and Sensor Mats can help detect falls and summon assistance as quickly as possible.
The Voice Alert Monitor
The Voice Alert Monitor attaches to the user’s clothes with a magnetic pull cord. If the person falls out of bed, a alarm is sounded. A recording feature allows a familiar voice to be heard by the user while assistance is on its way.
The Sensor Mats provide a pressure alarm system, notifying the carer if the user falls out of bed or their wheelchair.
The system can also be used to prevent Alzheimer’s or Dementia sufferers from wandering off by using the Sensor Mats or Door Banner to sound the alarm.
We also have the Wandering Alert Floor and Door Sensor Kit available which includes includes a door opening sensor with transmitter, a weight sensing floor mat with transmitter and a pocket pager alarm, and the Personal GPS Mini Mobile Tracker, an easy to use tracking device to help locate the whereabouts of an individual. This non-invasive device only sends location information when it is actually requested. The precise location can be pin-pointed on an online street map.
The Simple Mobile Phone & Alarm
Another brilliant device is the Simple Mobile Phone & Alarm. This product is great for those who find using a standard mobile phone difficult (that would be most of us then!? Hands up whoever has used their phone for more than just making a phone call?!).
This phone has four large buttons, each of which stores a contact number as a speed dial. With one press of a button, the user can answer a call, call the emergency services by pressing the SOS button or activate the alarm system by pressing the alarm key on the back of the phone for 3 seconds. If activated, the phone will send an emergency text message to all the numbers on an emergency contact list. The phone will then dial each of the numbers on the list in turn three times until the call is answered.
Jan
27
2010
Over Christmas we were pleased and surprised to see that we sent out so many accessories as gifts to people to enable those with difficulties such as poor eyesight or arthritic hands to continue to play cards – and we have now taken an order from a retirement home for more!
This lightweight plastic card holder makes it easier to hold and see all your cards.
The Warden at the home said that one resident had bought the card holder and the other residents had asked her to order more so that they could also play again without difficulty.
We also have “Real Big Playing Cards“. Â these are really easy to see cards, and also easy to hold – (they are 7″ x 5.5″) and the Lo Vision Playing Cards, with extra large numbers and symbols, colour coded by suit. Â These can be used by people with only 5 % normal vision, so could be a life-saver for a bridge player! (Or perhaps a Poker player?)
I also have the Automatic Card Shuffler – I have never managed to shuffle cards effectively, this is a godsend  - it will shuffle two decks so you can play Canasta!
Do you have one of these products? Why not give us your feedback?
Let us know if you have any suggestions for people who struggle to play card or other games!
Jan
25
2010
I have just found a super new product to list on our site – the Life Story books. These beautiful books are available as single books at £5.85, or in packs of 11 for £49.50 (great for care homes).
My Life Book
These are memory aids, where, often with assistance, the recipient records details of his, or her life, like an autobiography. This could make a lovely present for a friend or family member having problems with Dementia or Alzheimers, and has been shown in a recent trial that it can be useful in these cases, stimulating the senses and giving pleasure. it is also wonderful to share thse memories with family and friends.
Completing the book is very individual-focused. It will also help carers and family members understand the history of the “author” and this in turn can improve the type of care they receive.
The company is at present undergoing final development of a similar book for children who are separated from their birth parents – more news about this when we receive it.
There is also a stapled option for care homes which comes in packs of 10 for £24.50.
Jan
21
2010
- Nile by Night – Photo by Choctaw_Ridge
I found details of this unusual option on www.responsibletravel.com, who have a section dedicated to disabled travellers. There are not many wheelchair accessible holidays in Egypt, where disability is not yet as well catered for as it is in Europe. When I was there years ago, there seemed to be steps and very high kerbs everywhere, as well as too many beggars!
- Photo by Charlie Phillips
However, things have changed somewhat, and this is a deluxe Nile Cruise, including trips to the Pyramids and Luxor, and can be tailormade to suit each person’s interests and requirements. Â Solo disabled travellers are also welcome although single supplements apply (as ever!)
The 5* MS Amarco
This cruise is based onboard the 5 star deluxe MS Amarco 1, which is the only wheelchair adapted cruise ship in Egypt. Four (luxurious) nights are spent on the Nile, travelling from Luxor to Aswan on a full board basis, visiting Edfu, the Kom Ombo Temples and the High Dam – as well as much much more. The fascinating local life passing by along the river banks is also absorbing.
All entrance fees and guides etc. are included. All transfers will be in wheelchair adaped air-conditioned vehicles, with a free helper on the tours if required.
This cruise is followed by a three night stay in Cairo in a wheelchair friendly hotel, including breakfast each day.
Airport transfers are also met and assisted.
I think this sounds an excellent way to fulfil the ambition of many people!
Tell us about your experiences – have you have been on any disabled-friendly holidays, and how did you get on? Would you recommend your company to others?
