For more information, visit the Ohio Department of Aging web site at:
http://www.state.oh.us/age/
and Ohio State University Extension's "Aging in Ohio" web site at:
http://www.ag.ohio-state.edu/~seniors/
Eating a well-balanced diet is important to everyone of all ages. However, as we get older, cooking in the kitchen can present some challenges. Whether you experience arthritis, difficulty reaching things, reduced upper body strength, or vision impairment, there are ways to adapt your kitchen to make it more “user friendly.”
Adapting a kitchen to meet your needs does not have to be expensive or time consuming. There are many affordable ways to make your kitchen easier to use. Admittedly, some methods of modifying your kitchen will be more costly than others, however, paying for alterations you can afford is an investment in your health, safety, and continued independence.
Some suggestions include:
If standing for long periods of time is painful or you require the assistance of a cane or walker, sit down! If you don't already have a comfortable chair or stool, you can purchase a “kitchen stool” designed to allow you to sit while working in the kitchen. These stools have an adjustable height feature and three widely spaced legs with wheels that lock to give you stability and mobility. (Estimated cost is $60)
When transporting food from kitchen to table or even from one counter to another, use a trolley cart rather than carrying a tray. Keep this trolley in the corner of the kitchen for easy access. (Estimated cost is $40)
Priced very reasonably, these long-handled products enable you to reach items on high shelves. The handle is textured for an easy grip and the end can either have a magnet attached to retrieve small metal objects or a claw-like attachment to grab items that are hard to reach. (Estimated cost is $15)
Consider replacing a two-handled faucet with an easier to use single-lever faucet. Lever faucets do not require gripping or twisting and are therefore much easier to use. (Estimated cost is $60 to $100)
A new brand of utensils is on the market, called “OXO Good Grips.™” These products are designed to fit easily into the palm of your hand for better control and comfort. They can be found at any kitchen supply store, housewares department, and in some grocery stores. There are an endless number of items available ranging from basic utensils (i.e., forks, knives, vegetable peelers, spatulas) to cooking items (non-slip mixing bowl, flour sifter) to kitchen appliances (“easy on the wrist” tea kettle). (Estimated cost ranges from $2 to $60)
Cabinet handles that are small and round can be replaced with larger knobs or U-shaped pulls that are easier to turn. (Estimated cost is $4 to $5 per knob)
Consider installing roll-out tray shelves in your lower cupboards to make it easier to retrieve stored items. (Estimated cost for each tray is $40)
An alternative to installing roll-out shelves in your cupboards is to install a wall-rack on which to hang commonly used pots and pans. (Estimated cost is $40)
Be sure to remove any throw rugs in your kitchen that may cause tripping or falling. If you cannot part with your decorator rugs, secure them to the floor by using non-skid tape to prevent slipping. (Estimated cost is $3 to $10)
Consider moving objects you store over the range to another location to avoid burning yourself or your clothing. In addition, store heavy objects on lower shelves or counter tops and place lightweight items on upper shelves.
Be sure to have good lighting in your kitchen to avoid tripping, cutting, or burning yourself. If possible, install low wattage fluorescent lights or task lighting over work areas.
If you plan to purchase a new kitchen appliance, consider asking about special needs options on appliance design. Some appliance manufacturers have options available to customers with physical or sight limitations, for example, larger knobs or control panels with large print.
Adapting your kitchen to enhance safety, independence, and accessibility increases the likelihood that you will spend time there! Hopefully, spending time in the kitchen will result in the creation of healthy, well-balanced meals and improved nutrition. Regardless of your health limitations, simple modifications can be made that are affordable and reasonable. Begin with a positive attitude about the possibilities available and you may be surprised with the results that you accomplish!
For more information, contact the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) for publications on how to modify your home. Some examples of helpful publications available from the AARP free of charge include:
AARP Universal Design Home Modification Devices: www.aarp.org/universalhome/
Adaptive Environments Center, Inc.—Universal Design: www.adaptenv.org/universal/default.asp
Center for Universal Design at North Carolina State University: www.design.ncsu.edu/cud
“The Perfect Fit: Creative Ideas For A Safe & Livable Home” (D14823) The American Association of Retired Persons, Washington, D.C.
Atecheson, R. (2000, November-December). “Our Old House.” Modern Maturity.
AARP Universal Design Home Modification Devices: www.aarp.org/universalhome/
Author: Christine A. Price, OSU Extension State Specialist, Gerontology, Department of Human Development and Family Science.
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All educational programs conducted by Ohio State University Extension are available to clientele on a nondiscriminatory basis without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, gender, age, disability or Vietnam-era veteran status.
Keith L. Smith, Associate Vice President for Ag. Adm. and Director, OSU Extension.
TDD No. 800-589-8292 (Ohio only) or 614-292-1868