Gadgets, Aids and Tips to Simplify Our Lives [Updated Dec 2023]

Mobility & Transport

STEERING SPINNER KNOB (also called suicide knob)

Easy to attach and makes turning and parking effortless.
Can buy online from $20 or through authorised dealer for $150 Note it is classed as a car modification and you require at least a letter from your doctor saying you require this equipment.

HANDY BAR

Brilliant little gadget to aid getting in and out of the car. Simply insert bar into door stricker. Super strong and easy to use. Cost approx. $50.00, cheaper makes from $20

HIKING POLES

Brilliant little gadget to aid getting in and out of the car. Simply insert bar into door stricker. Super strong and easy to use. Cost approx. $50.00, cheaper makes from $20.

“AEROPLANE” FOOTREST

This adjustable “hammock” footrest is designed to prevent restless leg syndrome and swelling on long flights. It is ideal to lift your feet off the floor when you run out of steam & need to be pushed on your walker. Cost $14.00 online

HOME MADE TRANSPORTABLE HALF STEP

An ingenious member instructed her DIY husband to combine a walking stick with foot and a half height step to provide her with extra safe transfer when stepping up or down.

SAFTEY STEPS

Handy light weight steps with safety handles. Average step heights range from 230- 420, handles 900-1050mm. Online prices start at $69.00. I used one of these steps to get into a shower above a bath whilst on holiday in the UK.

MOTORISED LIFTING PLATFORM

Motorstep was designed to assist people with disabilities in negotiating a step up or down. It is a self-supporting lifting platform and can be placed next to hard-to-reach steps. It will lift from ground level and gently rise to a maximum height of 24 inches, carrying up to 125kg. Connects easily to a power or leisure battery and works in seconds. It has easy push button controls to make lifting to step level easy and safe. Prices start at $4,000. Note if you require funding you need to us it in your home “not your caravan”

Walkers & Scooters

COMPACT WALKER

The Empower Rollator is higher than most walkers which makes sitting and standing easier especially for those who are taller. The padded backrest flips forward and backward enabling the user to sit comfortably on either side. Seat flips up to allow user to stand or walk inside the rollator. The walker folds completely flat for easy storage and transport and the aluminium frame means it is light weight. Features easy-to-identify yellow adjustment points, folding cup holder, memory foam seat and neoprene storage bag. Cost from Amazon, including shipping $500

FOREARM SEAT WALKERS

These walkers can significantly aid walking and reduce Drop Falls. The smart posture design achieves optimal centre of gravity for improved balance and weight distribution. However, when used for sitting, the arm rests can be a little uncomfortable due to the increase in height position.

COMPACT WHEELCHAIR

The Literider powerchair is ideal for indoor and gentle sloping outdoor applications and for pulling apart to transport in the boot of a car. The extra seat padding and the adjustable arm rests and footplate make for a good comfortable ride. It has an under-seat basket & puncture proof tyres. Cost $3,400

SMALL COMPACT MOBILITY SCOOTER

The new Invacare Colibri 4 is a stylish, simple, and colourful micro lightweight scooter, designed for effortless, safe driving , for those who enjoy a totally independent lifestyle. It is recommended you go for suspension on the seat not on the wheels. Also, the add on carry bag, carrier for walker and walking stick are very useful. Price with extras $2000 (This scooter works well with the Smart Lifter LM Hoist ,P8)

SMART COMPACT ELECTRIC SCOOTER

When folded, Atto Mobility Scooter is as small as a carry on trolley you can take it with you on flights; it is also very large and comfortable when opened for driving. It takes 10 seconds to open and close, and 10 more seconds to split in two lightweight parts . This smart high performance mobility scooter includes standard features like built in USB charging port. It can also be customized with various accessories. Prices start from $6,000.

SMART ELECTRIC

The Whill Model C offers complete control over your movements with zero effort. Use just your fingertips to d rive back/forth and left/right Remove your hand from the controller and brakes will be applied automatically to make your descent safer The dual motor system controlling both sides keeps your ride straight over cross sloped surfaces The armrests can be flipped up which allows for an easy transfer. You can even stand on the footrest and not fall . Comes in a range of stylish colours. Priced from $6,800

JAZZY AIR 2

New and improved the Jazzy Air 2.0 can elevate to 30.4cm in just 11 seconds at a touch of a switch. Sleek, modern this power wheelchair can safely drive up to 6.4km/h while elevated. With the powered seat you can fit under a breakfast bar as well as a desk – Note at $5,700 it is cheaper than the Vela Tango Chair

POWER ASSIST FOR WHEELCHAIRS

The UNAwheel is the world’s lightest wheelchair power add-on and is now available in Australia.
It quickly & easily converts a standard wheelchair into a powered wheelchair whilst eliminating the need to having an electric wheelchair/scooter hoist fitted to your car.

WHEELCHAIR SMART LIFTER LM HOIST

Smart Lifter LM Hoist is ideal for lifting wheelchairs and travel/portable scooters up to 80kg. It is c ompatible with most station wagons, MPV’s, 4×4’s, vans and hatchbacks . Very user friendly and load inunder 60 seconds . Cost inc. fitting $6,000

X FRAME TRUST CARE ROLLATOR

The Trust Care Let’s Go Out Rollator weighs only 6.1kg making it easy to push and transport. The X frame also allows the rollator to stand by itself when folded. The large front wheels make turning easy and the spring system suspension makes moving the rollator comfortable and smooth on all surfaces. The rear wheels are fitted with fenders to protect from dirt. The ergonomically shaped rubber handles are height adjustable and there is both an effective brake and a parking brake for safer use. The seat is made from faux leather. Back rest and storage bag are optional.

Personal Lifts & Hoists

ALPHALIFT MOBILITY LIFTER

The Alphalift mobility lifter can help anyone get into any car and it’s made in South Australia by Access Unlimited Lift Pty Ltd. It’s quick and easy to use, fits almost any car, is easily transferred between vehicles, and requires no drilling. Alphalift can also adapt to lift people into caravans, boats & trailers, plus lift wheelchairs into the back of the car. The light weight and quality of the lift along with a $5,500 price tag are hard to beat.

AUL-XT HOME LIFTER

Another ingenious solution from Access Unlimited Lift. The AUL-XT Home Lifter is a strong, compact, easy to use lifter made of light-weight aluminium. It can be manoeuvred into tight spaces and folded into a compact size suitable for storage or transportation. This Lifter features electronic controls (pendant push button) aiding in a smooth range of lift and transfer. Cost $3,200

IN HOME HOISTS RECOMENDED BY MEMBERS

NEURODYN COMFORT FOOT SPLINT

Joint clasp with innovative one-hand fastener. The crossover semi-elastic restraints with strong lift effect which helps lift the foot up during gait and reduces danger of tipping There is plenty of comfortable ankle padding Cost approx. $300

Seating

TALL CAMPING CHAIR

The Up & Easy Seat Assist from and Carex is perfect for those who lack mobility, suffer from loss of balance, or are recovering from surgery. It is the non-electric portable lifting seat that will ease you into your seat and help you up, gently and safely. Cost approx. $200

PORTABLE SEAT RAISER

The Oztrail Vantage Directors Bar Chair makes an excellent BYO Dining Chair. It has an oversized frame that provides exceptional comfort stability , plus the t aller frame and sturdy arms make getting out of the chair a breeze. Fold up storage clips also double as walking stick holder. Sold at BCF for $160

MULTI FUNCTION CHAIR

VELA Tango 510El is the latest development in customised chairs with electric height adjustment. In addition to an active sitting posture, the high backrest and head support combined with backwards tilting seat provide relief and a good resting position during the day. Easy electric adjustment of the seat height allows for high or low work positions. The chair is extremely stable and has a very user friendly break. Cost is approx. $6,000

RECLINING, LIFT, TILT CHAIR

The Glide 180 Lift Recline Chair is a comfortable padded lift chair fitted with removable armrests for easy side transfer. It has a seat width of 56cm (76cm overall with armrests) and a carrying capacity of 180kg weight carrying capacity. Positioning and angles of Glide chair backrest and leg rest can be fully adjusted to suit the comfort of the user. Glide can be fully reclined to a horizontal position to promote blood circulation while sleeping. It has a vertical lift and forward tilt function, elevating to a standing level, to help those with limited mobility get their footing. Comes in leather or microfiber. The remote is simple to use with only 4 buttons. The chair comes with a backup battery in case of power outages.

RECLINING, LIFT, TILT CHAIR

Note : This ch air is recommended by 2 members

Novacorr’s Tilt and Lift Chairs are custom built to the specifications of each individual client. This allows the client to have a chair that is not only comfortable but suits their individual needs.
Novacorr’s chairs are unlike any other chair, they are built to stay in a seated position as they recline. This allows for the client’s feet to be elevated to a position where they are parallel with the heart , which help reduce swelling of the feet and legs whilst also boosti ng circulation. When the chairs are reclined they have a break in the knee, so when a client is lying down their knees are not locked at any point. A second motor can also be fitted which essentially turns the chair into a sleeping chair.

SEAT LIFT

The Mangar Raiser Lifting Cushion allows a person to rise out of their chair comfortably and safely.
At the And at the touch of a button two inflatable compartments rise individually, slowly lifting the seated person to a position that allows them to stand. This is a great alternative to a riser recliner, especially as the Raiser easily fit s the shape of most household chair s. The Raiser can also be used in a car or a wheelchair. It is extremely lightweight and can lift up to 190kg. Not available WA

Kitchen Aids

JAR/BOTTLE OPENER

Brilliant for opening any size lid. Only $6.50 from Bunnings in the plumbing section. It is called a “Haron 100mm Strap Wrench” and is designed for loosening and tightening plumbing & automotive parts.

JAR OPENER

Good erganonic design makes opening easy. Price range $7 – $15 available Online, Kitchen-ware shops & Daily Living

ELECTRIC CAN OPENER

Place on can, press the button and away you go, it could not be easier.
Price ranges from $15 on Groupon, to $35 online

GARLIC CHOPPER

As you roll it along the bench, the blades spin and chop the garlic. Chef’n Garlic Zoom online price start $22, Kitchen warehouse $32

TILT SALT AND PEPPER GRINDER

No twisting or turning, just turn upside down and it starts grinding. ALDI “special” $9.99, ebay $32.00

PEPPER GRINDER

Kuhn Rikon grinder very easy to use, just move big arm side to side. Price starts at $28 online.

POTATO MASHER

Extra large sturdy handle makes the job easier.

WHISK

Easier on the wrist just push up & down.

ELECTRIC GRATER & SLICER

Brilliant for shredding, grating and slicing cheeses, and softer vegetables like cucumber. Harder vegetables like carrots need a little more pressure. Extra-large push easy to use on-off button and no slip feet. Available most electrical and department stores.

CHEESE GRATER

No mess Tupperware Grate’n Measure which stores grated food in measuring container at back. Large easy grip supporting handle. Removable front grating panels allows easy access and cleaning. Buy on ebay.

ONE TOUCH KETTLE TIPPER

Ergonomic handle f or s table grip and pouring action. Easy to read water level indicator. Hinged lid with large opening for easy fill. Removable vessel for optional hand held pour and refilling. Removable anti scale filter for easy clean. Nonslip weigh ted base for stable pouring action. Auto shutoff with overheating protection. Cost approximate. $125 from various mobility stores.

EASYSAFE BAG SEALERS

Forget having to use annoying bag ties or rubber bands. Bag Sealer Sticks provides a simple and easy way to close and reseal open bags, just fold the bag over and slide on. 100% air & watertight. Buy online from $15.00

JAR SEAL BREAKER/OPENER

Specially designed for people with dexterity issues. Helps prevent wrist strain. Simple to use and opens jars and bottles with ease.
Can buy online from $5.00

ADAPTIED KNIVES

These adapted knives are balanced for more efficient cutting. You can choose from adapted knives with upright handles, t handles, large
soft grips, rolling knives, and rocker knives.
They really do require less effort and make cutting easier.

WIRE CHEESE CUTTER

The easiest way to slice cheese just how you like it with minimum effort.

EGG CUTTER/CRACKER

Very useful tool for cracking & cutting both raw and cooked eggs whilst keeping the egg clear of shell fragments. Works by gravity. Cost online from $10.00

KITCHEN ROLL HOLDER

Pull then tear with a push of a button with Joseph Joseph’s duo kitchen roll holder. With its push to lock mechanism, ripping into the kitchen roll has never been easier and the non-slip base stops the roll escaping. Prices start at $14.00 from Big W.

KNIFE SHARPENER

The Any Sharp is a compact, one-handed use knife sharpener. It grips onto any smooth surface with a suction seal, allowing you to effortlessly slide your knife through the tungsten carbide sharpening tool. Even works on serrated blades. Available online from $19

EASY HOLD MUG

This Villeroy & Boch “New Wave Café Coffee Mug” has an extra wide shaped handle that helps spread the weight and makes it much easier to hold and lift. Cost $45.00 but highly recommended by a member. Have seen set of 2 on ebay for $50

Personal care

SELF LEVELING CUTLERY

Liftware Steady Cutlery has motion stabilizing technology to keep your utensils level regardless of how your hand or arm, twists, bends or moves. Set costs $195, can purchase fork head separately.

DIY EASY HANDLE CUTLERY

The Plastazone tubing which has a 12mm internal diameter and 30mm external diameter, is bought from Unicare in 1 meter lengths. It can then be cut to suit all your existing cutlery. Cost $20 Daily Living

ZIP PULLERS

Great to add on to all those fiddley little zips on coats, cardigans, trousers, handbags etc. They come in a range of colours. Pink ones, were from the Reject Shop and were less than $5.00

BUTTON & ZIP PULLER

Bottom end for pulling buttons through the buttonhole. Top end for hooking zips and pulling them up. Can buy on ebay from $6.00

SHOE HORN

Lazy Wear Shoehorn Helper gives you ready to go shoes. Curved ergonomic design ensures they don’t bend when trying to slide on shoes. They come in a wide range of colours. Priced from $6.00 online

PERSONAL FOOT DRESSER

Puts your socks on for you so you don’t have to bend to far over The unique cradle design expands and holds your sock open and keeps it in the perfect position so all you have to do is slide your foot in It also makes taking your socks off easy. Prices start at $10.00 from Red Dot.

POCKET ROCKET HAIR DRYERS

If you need to blow dry your hair, try using a
Travel Hair Dryer. They are much lighter and easier to hold. However, you will need to double check the on/off switches as some can be a little more difficult to operate.

PERSONAL TRAVEL SHAMPOO BOTTLES

These bottles are much easier to hold and squeeze than standard shampoo & conditioner bottles. Just top up as required and if you have difficulty seeing just put a bit of bright nail varnish where the catch is. Cost $2- $3

HAIR WASHER

This simple “Plastic Finger Hairbrush” loops around your finger and by applying shampoo or conditioner to the brush pad, you can wash your hair with using your weak fingers. Online starting at $3.00

ONE HAND TUBE SQUEEZER

An ideal aid to help people put more pressure on toothpaste & similar tubes.
Suction cups hold securely in place. Cost $19

TUBE SLIDDER

Various styles & colours available on the internet styles in 2 or 3 packs for approx. $5.00. Available at most mobility stores.

HAIR WASHER

While the function is much like standard toenail clippers, the Aidapt Nail Clipper with Magnifier has a removable plastic cover for improved grip, while the magnifier attaches to the top of the clipper magnetically. Approx. $13

SELF ADHESIVE BANDAGE

Really does makes dressing wounds so much easier. This was from the Reject Shop and only $3.00 much cheaper than the chemist.

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SHOWER FOOT WASHER

This nonslip foot shower washer requires no bending or stretching. It has multiple small suction cups that affix easily to the shower floor. The sandal gently cleans between toes, sides and the top of the foot. Can be purchased at Daily Living for $45. Cheaper versions online, but they may not have the same succussion & stability.

NONSLIP SHOWER MAT

Hydro Wonder Mat is made of an interwoven fibre that lets water pass straight through. It is slip resistant, stain resistant and comfortable under foot. Cost $39.99 from TV shop.

PELVIC FLOOR EDUCATOR

One of the main problems women experience when attempting pelvic floor exercises is knowing whether they are doing them correctly. The Educator from Neen is a simple lightweight and easy to use pelvic floor exerciser that will help you understand and strengthen your pelvic floor. Purchased from medical supplier $33.00

Bathroom Aids

ELECTRIC COMMODE

The TA Electric Toilet Seat Lifter is easy to operate requires no installation. A 40cm of variable lifting interval provides increased independence for the user. The vertical lift counteracts risk of tipping over when the user is moving from the standing position. Wheels with brake can be fitted instead of legs. Conway BA08 BIDET can be fitted to the seat.
Note: Supplier no longer trading in Australia, can only buy second hand

LIFT SEAT VERTICA

Recently purchased by a WA member from the UK. Even with shipping it was $7,200, the same price as the TA electric Commode coming from QLD & cheaper than the Aerolet vertical coming from SA. Note a supplier has just opened in NZ and they hope to have one i n Australia this year (2022). The Lift Seat Vertica rises vertically upwards with no tilt at any point in its movement The vertical movement and high rise mean people who need to lock their knees before standing, can do so. Vertica safe working load is 203kg. Adjustable feet allow for increased height & stability. Max height 720mm if bidet seat added 760mm perfect for someone 6’3”.

MOBILE POWER TOILET AID

The Mobile Power Toilet Aid (PTA) is a power toilet lift. The seat height can be lifted or lowered with the touch of a button to help individuals use and exit easily from the toilet. It is not the most elegant , but nevertheless it works well and cost only $4,500

ROLET TOILET SET RAISER

This ergonomic toilet aid is designed to facilitate independent toilet use for anyone with min 25% muscular strength. The Aerolet is adjustable to leg length and the level of trunk stability. It is available state wide (excluding WA) from the Bidet shop, WA supplier Occupational Theory Services

TOILET & SHOWER CHAIR

Zitzi Starfish Pro is a combined waterproof, electronic, tilting and lifting toilet and shower chair. The chair has multiple adjustment possibilities to provide the best support and position for the user. There is a wide range of optional accessories that can be added. This chair is highly recommended by an IBM user. A manual chair option is available.

COMBINED WALKING AID & TOILET SAFTEY PRODUCT

The Free2Go Mobility walker is a 3 in 1 walking aid with raised toilet seat and toilet safety frame.
The Rollator frame provides support when sitting and standing whilst providing additional height over a standard toilet. It has a t hick padded seat cushion for comfort & comes with a built in pouch to hold sanitary wipes COMBINED WALKING AID & TOILET SAFTEY PRODUCT

TOILET SEAT BIDETS

The Coway BA08 remote Control Bidet toilet seat comes with soft closing lid and 3 temperature settings. The remote control keypad can be mounted on the wall beside your toilet, or on either side of the Bidet seat. It even comes with a ladies wash just for the girls. It is available through the Bidet Shop.

GRAB RAILS

Avail has an extensive stylish designer range of grab rails that will suit any home. Avail began after seeing how many people refused to install grab rails into their homes because they didn’t want to make their bathrooms look like a hospital . Avail means customers now want to have don’t just have to have.

Bunnings also do a comprehensive range of grab rails including this compact Evekare combi Toilet Roll Holder & Rail.
Rated up to 250kg, priced from $49 to $70 depending on colour

PORTABLE GRAB RAIL

These bathroom grip support bars install in seconds, will never slip, and support people of all shapes and sizes. Taking a trip? They’re lightweight, compact. No screwdrivers, no drills, no tools. They stick to walls in just a few seconds with an ultra-strong locking mechanism. Available from Bunnings for $20

Laundry Aids

CLOTHES HOIST

Top Line Clothesline is a modern version of the old clothes hoist. This is a lightweight sturdy and durable indoor intelligent clothesline and airer. Height is adjusted via remote control, can be used easily whilst in a wheelchair. Topline comes with and an automatic timer for the header and fan, plus a motion sensor to turn off the optional UV lamp. Easy use “pegless clip rails” can also be added. Prices start at $1175.00

Office Equipment

DESKY ERGO SIT STAND TABLE

The Ergo LED controls allow you to adjust the height with the push of a button. It has 4 programmable settings, so you can save your favourite heights for ease of use a must if you are in a wheelchair. The stylish cutaway allows you to move closer to you r desk, so you can maintain a healthy posture. The Dual motors provide 140kg of lift, enough to support the most complicated workstation height ranges from 60 125 cm. The frame conceals everything, so your desk always looks great! Price $860

ERGANOMIC MOUSE

The Logitech MX Vertical Mouse has a unique design to promote a natural handshake position to then reduce muscle strain and wrist pressure as well as improve posture. The mouse is angled at 57 degrees so that your thumb is positioned on the designated rest. It utilises advanced optical tracking and customisable cursor speed and accuracy settings, so you don’t have to move your hand as frequently. It has a textured, rubber surface to help you achieve a solid grip. Can be purchased at Office Works for $180.

THIXOTROPIC SUPER BIG FAT PENS

Perfect for anyone with limited dexterity.
This super big fat weighted pen is made of soft comfortable silicone. The hexagonal grip profile prevents the pen from rolling away or off the table. It is easy to hold and writes like a dream. The pens accept, widely available Parker-style refills and come with a detachable lanyard. Cost for set of 2 pens $28 online.

Outdoor Aids

GARDEN KNEELER

Cushioned knee pad and sturdy arms to help raise from kneeling position.

HALF TURN GARDEN TAP

An absolute must Everyone should have
these. You literally only have to turn the tap
a quarter turn for the water to rush out. They
are called Easy ½ Turn Tap made by Kinetic
and you can purchase from Bunnings $25

General Aids

FALL DETECTION AND EMERGENCY SOS

The Apple Watch SE 4 and above, can detect if you have taken a hard fall and connect you with emergency services if you are immobile. You can also get immediate help in an emergency by simply pressing the side button. It will also send a message to those contacts that you have listed as emergency contacts.

HAND WARMER

Brilliant double sided hand warmer s that can be charged via a USB cable. They stay warm for up to 7 hours depending on heat setting . Now available in Australia through Innovations for $20. Hot Rox from the UK sold online also $20

HANDY REACHER

There are many Reacher ’s on the market. Some have a single trigger pull where others have hand grip pull, test prior to buying to see what best suits your hand function, also look for the ones that are ultra lightweight A magnet on the head for the retrieval of small metal objects is beneficial, as are makes where the head can be adjusted and swivelled 360º to reduce the need to rotate the wrist.

KEY TURNER

Large easy to turn, key handle that also safely stores keys out of the way when not in use. Cost $20 from Daily Living.

BAG CARRIERS (LIFTING HOOKS)

Harbinger wrist straps with 6mm neoprene cuff cushioning. Adjustable hook position to accommodate various hand sizes Compatible with carrying all shopping bags (as well as barbells and dumbbells). Price approx. $25.00

DIY GOLF NECCECITIES

DOORKNOB GRIPPER

The Great Grips work great for the elderly who struggle to turn round doorknobs and t he keyhole remains accessible.
The winged tipped design of this grip aid allows anyone to open the door easily! Includes glow in the dark inserts for night time visibility. Can purchase online for approx. $30.00

BENCH MOUNT FOR TABLET & PHONE

Simple, affordable clamp for any tablet or phones. $5 from Photo on left shows us recording guest speaker at our meeting.

PET BOWLS WITH HANDLES

A range of designs can be found online, priced from $20 $70

CANGUN1

Cangun1 fits 100% of all standard spray cans.
It offers fatigue and pain free spraying by providing 10X less, the amount of force required to actuate the can’s valve The Future Lock attachment ring makes attaching and removing CANGUN1 extra easy Approx. $22 on ebay

TRIGGER GRIP

Converts any aerosol can into a spry gun. Made in Australia and sold at Bunnings for only $ 4.30

SOOTHING COMFORT HEAT PAD

Provides relief and comfort to tired aching muscles helps you keep warm. Mains powered, measuring 60 x 40 cm with three heat settings. Detachable controller. 90 minutes built in safety cut off feature. Note May not be suitable for people with pacemakers.
Buy from Aids For Daily Living for $49

MAGNETIC PICKUP STICK

Only $3.00 from Red Dot

BED & CHAIR RISERS

Popular elephant feet design for added stability. Includes non-slip foam insert. Maximum weight capacity 380kg (when used as a set of 4). Diameter of recess 90mm, height 90mm or 140mm. Note feet are sold separately. Costs approx. $36 each. Smaller similar 40mm chair risers start at $10 each

EVERYHUMAN (Supplier of Billy Footwear)

From clothing, shoes to beauty, this one stop Australian shop has stylish products designed by people who have a lived experience of a disability. The adaptive range simplifies getting dressed, with easy on off shoes, magnetic shirt/blouses, to name a few, with many designs catering for wheelchair users.

Exercise & Remote Physio

PEAK PEDEL EXERCISER

Perfect for strengthening your quads/legs while you remain seated in your chair. Comes with adjustable tension settings and costs $130. Can also be used on a table with hands to improve grip & arm strength.

THEROPY HAND PUTTY

Putty promotes increased range of motion, hand closure and tendon gliding. Colour coding indicates the varying resistances.

HAND WEIGHTS

Gaiam Hand Weights are soft filled dumbbells with secure hand strap.
They come in 1 & 2 Kg and start at $25. Wheat heat packs can be a good starting point prior to buying weights.

ANKLE WEIGHTS

Suitable for low impact workout to strengthen lower body. Can also be used on wrists or held in hands for arm workout. $10 for 2kg set from Kmart.

THERA BANDS

Simple & easy to use product for upper & lower body exercises that can be performed anywhere . They are ideal for conditioning , strengthening & rehabbing muscles and provides both positive and negative force on muscles and joints .

REMOTE PHYSIO VIA ZOOM

Finding physios who specialise in IBM and lives close by is virtually impossible. But covid has allowed us to access more
resources and specialists. One such specialist is Sarah Jarvie who currently treats 8 IBMer’s in Victoria & Interstate. She is caring, kind, competent and all round wonderful, and she
is happy to conduct physio sessions via zoom to members Australia wide. The admin and support are also excellent &
can handle both Medicare referrals via GP and private patients.
Contact Sarah at Sarah@portmelbournephysio.com.au or on (03)9681 7255

Useful Tips

PORTABLE SEAT CUSHION

Make your own super lightweight portable seat cushion by using a calico shopping bag and two Kmart Yoga Blocks. Not only do the Yoga blocks only cost only $5.50 each, but once in your fabric bag, no one would know you are carrying a seat raiser.

EASY GRIPPER

Use nonslip drawer liner for making customized grippers for opening jars, bottles, etc. This one hangs in the garage and is used to turn the garage doorknob.

EASIER TOOTHPASTE SQUEEZING

When toothpaste is getting low chop off empty end of tube, cover with grease proof paper and seal open edge with hair straighteners. Mini tube now easy to squeeze.

DRINKING GLASS

Try using a large, long
stemmed wine glass for all your water & soft drink, rather than trying to cup hold a
standard glass.

SOFT WATER BOTTLES

Décor do a good range of metal easy use flip top water bottles. Available from most supermarkets starting at $9.00.

WALKING STICK STORAGE

Broom holder racks are also excellent for holding your walking sticks. This is the Everhang holder from Bunnings and comes with additional hooks for keys etc. Price $12

FALL PROTECTION

Now you can look as cool as the grandkids with a Pro Choice Bump Ca p or a skateboard helmet. Only you are protecting yourself from the risk of bleeds with head strikes during a fall. They are light weigh t, come a vast range of colours from a multitude of outlets including Office Works.

PLANT HOLDER

Makes a great talking point!!

CAP HOLDER

A bent mounted kitchen roll holder makes storing all your caps easy.

BED SHEETS

Sick of being pinned down by your bed sheets, try using Bamboo Sheets or Silk Sheets. Not only are they both feather light and Hypoallergenic, but they will also be t he smoothest, softest, silkiest sheets you have ever used. Well worth the $$.

HELPFUL COWBOY BOOT HOOKS

When hook is dipped a few times in rubber/plastic coating, they are great for lifting wheelchair foot plates, opening drawers, doors (including the car) etc.

DID YOU KNOW.

TAD AUSTRALIA is an Australian federation of state not-for-profit organisations which provide personalized equipment, technology, and services to disabled persons. They have a team of skilled volunteers, therapists, and engineers, who work with you to provide solutions that meet your needs by adapting a readily available product, ie. Wheelchair, to make it more suitable, or by custom designing and building just for you. TAD Australia welcomes all equipment requests and will work with you to develop a solution, as long, as it is safe to do so. TAD are a registered NDIS provider. Check out the link for more info and state details: https://tad.org.au

WHEELCHAIR INSURANCE
RAC (WA) offer WHEELS TO GO COVER for motorised and manual wheelchairs at a cost $45 per year. (inc. RAC perks) BLUE BADGE Insurance offers a similar cover in the Eastern States