Equipment for the Kitchen and Household
Some people may benefit from using specialised equipment or adaptive techniques in kitchen and
household activities. Equipment exists to assist individuals with visual and hearing impairments,
limited reach and mobility, pain and joint stiffness, coordination difficulties, limited strength and
endurance or those with only the use of only one hand. This fact sheet looks at some of the
commonly used products.
JAR AND BOTTLE OPENERS
A variety of different jar openers are available. Some jar openers are rubber
objects designed to improve grip.
Others incorporate a lever system which reduces the strength required to open
a jar. Some openers can be mounted under a shelf or bench to allow a person
to open a jar with one hand.
TIN/CAN OPENERS
Can openers with large handles and turning knobs may be easier for people
with sore joints to use.
Electric can openers are another option and a Jshaped tin opener will remove
the lid from pull-cans more easily.
JUG AND KETTLE TIPPERS
Jug and kettle stands eliminate the need to lift a heavy kettle full of boiling
water. The kettle can be left in the tipper and refilled using a small jug.
KITCHEN UTENSILS
Utensils such as peelers are available with ready-made built up handles in a
variety of sizes, textures and weights. The needs of the user will dictate what is
easiest for them to use.
Slip-on foam tubing and clay can also be used to build up the handle of
ordinary utensils to provide and easier grip.
Knives with angled handles allow a stronger grip to be used. It puts less stress
on joints by using the whole arm in a sawing action for chopping, slicing, etc.
Using electrically operated appliances can simplify tasks. Blenders, food
processors, electric can openers and electric knives are a few commercially
available items which can assist with food preparation.
CHOPPING BOARDS
Chopping boards can be modified to help stablize food items to assist cutting,
chopping and spre