5 helpful kitchen gadgets

If you are concerned about an older person or parent, there are some inexpensive gadgets that can help make everyday tasks that little bit easier.

Food preparation

Right-angled handle kitchen utensils are ideal to maintain the hand and wrist in a natural stress-free position when carving meat or cutting bread. 

If gripping is difficult, I recommend the 'Good Grip' range of cutlery which are weighted and have a soft cushion grip. Their swivel peeler, shown here, is particularly good as it requires minimal wrist movement and ensures a secure hold even when wet. 

You should be able to get these from any kitchen shop or your local mobility dealer.

Milk and juice cartons

The Turn Key opens the lid and the attached hook helps remove the small plastic lid underneath.

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Ring-pull cans

The J-Popper is the perfect solution. It is light, easy to use and will stop you spilling half the contents.

Jars and bottles

New jars are generally difficult to open because of the vacuum inside. 

A simple Jar Pop Key will release the pressure and allow you to unscrew the lid easily.

For the more persistent lid, the “Grip It” jar and bottle opener is a moulded rubbery cone that will help open a range of different-sized bottles, jars and child-proof bottles. If arthritis makes gripping difficult the 'Cap Gripper', which fastens around the lid, has a handle that enables you to open a jar or bottle with very little effort.

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Tap turners

Derby tap turners can be used on both crystal and cross-head taps, giving outstanding grip and making them easier to turn. No tools are required to fit them and they are colour-coded red and blue.

Kettle safety

Lifting and pouring can be very difficult, especially for anyone with arthritis. 

The Kettle Tipper is designed to enable you to safely pour hot water into a cup without lifting any weight. There are a variety of different types and standard, jug or cordless kettles can all be used, your local mobility dealer should have a selection.