Two Adaptive Devices
for Eating
An older adult who has difficulty
holding silverware will have difficulty
eating independently.
Look at the adaptive devices on the
next slide. What features do you see
that make eating easier?
Did you notice the diameter of the
handles?
 Would that be useful if you had difficulty with
your grip?
Did you notice the shape of the
spoon?
 Would that be useful if you could not bend your
wrist?
An older adult with limited dexterity
who has to eat with one hand can
also have difficulty eating
independently.
Look at the adaptive device on the
next slide. How do you suppose it
works to make eating easier?
The elevated rim is built to clip on
the plate.
A person can push food against the
rim to get it on the fork or spoon.
The rim detaches for cleaning.
Do you know anyone who could use
adaptive devices for eating?
Two Adaptive Devices for Eating was prepared
by Linda Felver, Ph.D., R.N. for the Older Adult
Focus Project, OHSU School of Nursing.
Photographs by C. Van Son