Fall 2011
GEAR & GADGETS
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Survivors Go Online to Connect; Positioning Aid Helps Move Legs
Increasing Balance and Mobility with Poles
Walking poles can help people of all abilities achieve, maintain and often regain mobility. The website polesformobility.com provides a guide for specific features of current models, a free pole purchase consultation and links to stores where poles can be purchased.
The DVD “Poles for Balance & Mobility” (1:39), focuses on techniques for using the poles to increase balance, posture, endurance, gait and upper body strength. Stroke survivors often use a cane, but with training, can move on to more athletic poles with grips, adjustable heights and springs. Physical therapists are also using the DVD to help patients reach their walking and balance goals.
Price: $14.95 (for DVD, plus tax and shipping)
Phone: 415-699-3333
Website: polesformobility.com
Interactive Device Connects Remote Care Recipients
Meet Angela™, a solution to remote caregiving that can enrich
social connections and help aging adults continue living healthy, safe and
rewarding lives in their own homes. Called the
“next Wii or iPad” for the golden generation, the software is
tailor-made for the non-technical elderly: larger screen fonts, higher
contrast, brighter colors and one-touch access to video chats, medication and
calendar reminders, email, the Internet, games, puzzles and more. There is no
need for prior computer experience, navigation with a mouse or typing on a
keypad. Care recipients only need Internet access for the service, and
caregivers can easily check in or monitor via the web application’s dashboard.
Price: Monthly
subscription plus tablet cost
Phone: 800-815-STAY
(7829)
Website: independa.com
Positioning Aid Gives
Extra Lift
Designed
to help stroke survivors with limited use of their leg(s), who might also have
weak triceps and biceps, the Leg Wrap™ Positioning Aid provides an easier,
safer way to reposition and shift weight. This one-size-fits-all device
includes three straps that attach to the user’s leg in three places—the top of
the upper thigh, above the knee and above the ankle—with two handholds which
eliminate the need to tug on clothing, preventing injury caused by dropping the
legs. The legs are moved by grasping one or both handholds or by hooking an arm
through a handhold. The Leg Wrap can remain on the leg throughout the day to
provide assistance in performing daily activities.
Price: $29.95
Phone: 973-628-7600
Website: maddak.com
The product descriptions included in Gear & Gadgets are for informational purposes only. A product’s inclusion in StrokeSmart™ does not imply endorsement by National Stroke Association nor does it guarantee the reliability or safety of the products listed.
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