Weighted Utensils

Weighted Utensils

Regular Weighted Utensils

Built-up Weighted Utensils

Weighted Utensils were designed for individuals with limited mobility and hand tremors. The utensils come in multiple shapes and forms; however, the consistent feature among the devices is they are weighted. Individuals with limited grasp can purchase a built-up weighted utensil, which decreases the difficulty they experience while holding regular utensils.


Purpose

• The device provides extra resistance to lessen hand tremors while the individual is eating. Individuals that suffer from tremors and limited ranges of motion in their hands they can use a built-up weighted utensil.  The purpose of the built-up handle is making it easy for the user to grip and maintain grip on the utensil.
• Skills includes:  physical, visual, tactile, perceptual, and cognitive.

Operation

• Weighted utensils are used just like regular utensils; the only difference is that they are weighted. These devices are beneficial for the geriatric and pediatric populations that requires added resistance to prevent tremors while feeding.  

Pros/Cons

•  Pros- The device helps individuals who have really bad tremor to eat meals with limited spillage. The device also has the potential to stop spillage while feeding and decreases  difficulties.  A positive quality of this device is that it comes in different styles. This is beneficial because it allows the user to choose from a built-up or regular handle.
• Con- It is sometimes difficult to finding the correct weighted utensils. They can be extremely heavy or not heavy enough.

Availability

• The regular weighted utensils can be purchased from Allegro Medical for $23.32.  The manufacture of this particular device is AliMed.  Item can be purchased online or by phone: http://www.allegromedical.com/daily-living-aids-c519/keatlery-weighted-utensils-knife-p209319.htm or (800) 861-3211.

• The built-up weighted utensils can be purchased from Allegro Medical for $41.04.  The manufacture of this particular device is Therafin. Item can be purchased online or by phone: http://www.allegromedical.com/daily-living-aids-c519/qualcare-grip-utensils-soup-spoon-black-p209173.html or (800) 861-3211.