Accessing Potential Through Assistive Technology
Gifting Guide Day 24: Kitchen Gadgets

Holiday meals are one of the star features when getting together with friends and family. However, some tasks may be difficult for some. Whether it’s during prepping, cooking, eating, or cleaning, we could all use some help. You may be a seasoned chef in need of large-print tools, someone having difficulty with opening jars, someone with an upper extremity amputation or injury, or you just want to make some tasks less of a hassle. Here are some kitchen gadgets for you to consider as a gift to yourself or someone else!

The items listed below are not limited to one specific vendor. Do an online search for similar items. Many are even available on Amazon, online assistive technology stores, or your local pharmacies or big box store!

Image of measuring spoons with large print measurements

Measuring cups and spoons with large print would be great for someone with low vision.

Table top magnifying glass

A magnifying glass stand could also be helpful when reading labels or recipes.

An electric can opener could help save time and eliminate the frustration and physical pain of operating a manual can opener.

Image of automatic pump inserts for beverage jugs

These automatic drink dispenser pumps eliminate having to twist open a cap and picking up and tilting a heavy gallon of milk, juice, or beverage when pouring yourself a drink.

cutting board with a variety of holders for safe cutting

A one-handed cutting board could be useful for someone with an upper extremity amputation, weakness, loss of function or even a recent injury. He or she could prep ingredients independently using this specialized cutting board.

Image of a pickle jar in a wedge gripper for opening jars

This solo-grip non-slip jar opener could also be useful when you only have one hand available.

Clip on silicone strainer attached to a pot

A clip-on strainer is easy to apply to a pot or pan and allows you to grab the handle with one or two hands when straining your food.  

Two suction cup brushes attached in sink

These suction cup brushes are helpful when trying to wash a cup or small dish single handedly.  Perhaps the sink is not wheelchair accessible and reaching over to the side prevents you from easily using both hands to wash a dish.

Yellow scoop plate with user scooping peas and carrots

Scooping plates are great for anyone needing a little extra help when scooping up food on their plate. When used in combination with angled, weighted, or other adapted utensils if needed, these plates allow the user to be more successfully independent during meals.

Image of kitchen with anti fatigue mats in front of counters

Lastly, an anti-fatigue kitchen mat would help reduce any leg or back pain or discomfort that usually comes with having to stand long hours while preparing a holiday meal.

Gifting Guide Day 11: Suvie for Disability?

It exists! It really does exist!

An oven that keeps your food cold until it’s time to cook. I have to admit I was intrigued and a little skeptical when I saw the commercial. But the concept is fantastic. Not only is it great for busy individuals who would like dinner ready when they get home…it really got my wheels turning about how this could work for individuals with disabilities.

While the cooking robot has many cooking features and the ability to control via the app the most intriguing feature to me is the “Scheduled Cool-to-Cook: Cool-to-cook technology keeps your meal safely refrigerated until it’s time to start cooking. Enter your mealtime whenever you’re ready, and Suvie does the rest.” Imagine the possibility of someone being able to have a fresh cooked meal that may normally have to rely on a care giver or the microwave.

Ways it could benefit:

  • A caregiver could prep a meal in the morning that can be scheduled to cook for the evening.
  • The countertop device can be placed where it is easy to reach.
  • The pans are small and easy to carry or manipulate.
  • All the cooking is performed within the device so no need to tend to the items with stirring or flipping.
  • As long as the person can safely manipulate the pans after cooking this is a safer alternative to cooking on a stovetop or trying to remove hot items from a large oven.
  • The programmed cooking settings make it easy for someone with confusion or memory difficulty to cook a meal.
  • It can be controlled with a smartphone which improves accessibility for those with vision difficulties who can utilize a screen reader.
  • Suvie offers prepackaged meal options with clear cooking instructions.

Find out more about the Suvie at www.Suvie.com. And Check out this preview of the Suvie on Youtube.

What do you think about the Suvie? Comment below!

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This list is provided for informational purposes only as APTAT does not endorse specific products or brands. When purchasing be sure to thoroughly research the product features to ensure it will meet your individual needs.

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