Eating and Drinking Aids

Special cups with lids will help you avoid spilling liquids. The Tommee Tippee cup (Figure 1) is useful if you have difficulty in swallowing or poor coordination. The Wonder-Flow vacuum cup (Figure 2) allows you to drink while lying flat on your back or on your side. These cups can be used with straws. Use extra-long (18") straws if you tire while trying to hold a cup. You can also improvise with styrofoam cups and lids like those used in take-out food places. Serve soup in a cup for ease and safety.

If you have swallowing problems, a plastic glass with a cutout for the nose (Figure 3) will allow you to drink without tipping your head back, as a precaution against choking. The Tommee Tippee cup (Figure 1) will help here too.

If your grasp is weak, a stretch-kit coaster slipped around a glass will give you a firmer grip (Figure 4). You can also use adhesive-backed bathtub safety treads or similar rubber decals spiraled around the glass.

The Mac Mug (Figure 5) has a t-handle that is easy to grasp and is insulated to protect heat-sensitive skin. Two-handled cups, such as children's cups or the Tommee Tippee cup are also helpful.

Built-up handles on knives, forks, and spoons (Figure 6) will help if you have difficulty in grasping. You can improvise these by using foam rubber curlers, sponge rubber, or washcloths.

If you have difficulty with coordination, a plate guard (Figure 7) will prevent food from being pushed off the plate. The guard clips onto the edge of the plate and acts as a stable surface to push against. You can also use a dish with a high edge, such as a pie plate or a special platter that is raised on one side (Figure 8).

If you must have your meals in bed, a firm, wedge-shaped cushion (Figure 9) behind your back will place your body in a more comfortable position, especially for swallowing.

Use a breakfast tray with legs (Figure 1O) or a serving tray, or improvise with a cardboard box with spaces cut out on the long sides for your legs (Figure 11). Cover the tray surface with a damp towel or other material that will keep dishes from sliding.

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