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Adaptive Tools for Seniors Craft
Participating in crafting activities can bring Seniors joy, creativity and a sense of accomplishment.
However older adults who struggle with hand mobility may face challenges in enjoying this hobby.
Thankfully there are adaptive tools available that can make crafting easier and enjoyable. Lets explore some of these tools that can enhance the crafting experience for everyone involved.
Here’s a list of what’s available
Helpful Tools to make things easier
Many crafts can be adapted to suit the abilities of seniors with limited dexterity using customized tools to make things easier. Here’s some adaptive craft tools to help seniors overcome their limited dexterity and complete their craft projects successfully
- Larger handles on tools
- Magnifiers and magnifier lamps
- Stronger lights
- Larger handle ergonomic scissors
- Holding stands with spring-loaded clip grippers
- Crafting knives with thick, non-slip handles
- Battery-operated hole punches to punch through paper or thin materials.
- Automatic Needle Threader
- Large-Handle Paint Brushes
- Easy-Grip Crochet Hooks and Knitting Needles
Ergonomic Scissors
An tool for any crafter is a pair of scissors designed for comfort and ease of use. Ergonomic scissors with designed handles and spring assisted mechanisms are particularly helpful for seniors. They make an easy job of cutting through materials requiring effort ensuring a smooth cutting process.
Versatile Cutting Blades
Blades can be incredibly useful when it comes to cutting tasks. These blades come with easy-grip handles that provide control and stability during use.
No more struggling, with small handles as you can now have a comfortable grip every time you craft.
Electric Hole Puncher
Making holes in paper or other materials is simple with an electric hole puncher. These battery-powered or electric devices, which usually require effort, now reduce the strain on the hands, making crafting activities more enjoyable.
Adaptive Cutting Boards
These boards come with either suction cups or clamps to secure materials in place creating a stable and safe cutting surface.
Craft Magnifiers with Lights
Craft magnifiers equipped with LED lights make it easier to see the details of our projects. Magnifying glasses with integrated lights help improve vision without straining our eyes. Accurate measurement is essential in crafting.
Flexible Rulers
Flexible rulers and measuring tapes that bend easily and have easy to read numbers are perfect for seniors making the process simpler and less stressful.
Comfort Grip Pliers
Comfortable grip pliers are a must have for tasks like beading or wirework. Their cushioned handles offer a grip for handling items. There are also comfort hand grips that are able to fit over handles of existing tools giving a larger and more comfortable gripping area.
Velcro Fasteners
Velcro fasteners allow you to secure materials without the need to tie knots or use clasps. They are user-friendly, inexpensive, and convenient for craft projects.
A Portable Lap Desk
A portable lap desk offers a surface for crafting on the move. Lightweight and easy to carry it ensures a workspace wherever crafting takes place.
Craft mats
Craft mats with non-slip surfaces help keep our projects stable while working on them. These mats serve as a base allowing us to concentrate on our projects without materials shifting around.
Automatic Needle Threaders
A great idea to keep senior seamstresses sewing for longer. Place a needle (eye down) in one of the little funnels and drop the thread over the slot next to the funnel, then press a button. The thread is pushed through the eye of the needle and it comes out the other side of the funnel
Lets make the most of these tools and continue crafting with ease and happiness!
Project Holders
Perfect for holding projects that require 2 hands or steady hands. The clips are surprisingly strong and combined with a heavy base, this multi-purpose holder will save the day minimizing frustration and saving time.
Large Handle Paint Brush
Da Vinci Manolino brushes have a unique rounded handle which been designed for those seniors who may find it difficult to grip a conventional paint brush. Elderly artists who may have a physical disability or problems with their hand-eye co-ordination will find this easier to use.
Creating should be an enriching experience for everyone regardless of their skill level. With these tools, we can fully immerse ourselves in our hobbies, creating pieces and savoring the joy that comes with it.
Where can I buy these tools?
Finding crafting tools tailored for seniors, with dexterity has never been easier thanks to the variety of online and physical stores available. Here are some great places to start your search;
Online Retailers
Amazon
Amazon offers a selection of crafting tools. Simply search for items like “scissors” or “easy grip paint brushes.” You’ll come across options along with customer reviews.
Etsy
Etsy is a platform for vintage items. Many sellers offer custom crafting tools designed specifically for seniors.
Specialty Craft Stores
Websites like Joann and Michaels have dedicated sections for tools and supplies. They often carry equipment. They serve as valuable resources to find what you need.
Independent Crafting Supply Websites
Websites such as Dick Blick (for art materials) and Herrschners (for knitting and crochet) may have sections featuring tools, for seniors.
Physical Retail Stores
Joann Fabric and Craft Stores: Joann stores offer a variety of crafting tools with their friendly staff ready to help you find products, for your needs.
Michaels: Another craft store, Michaels provides a range of supplies and tools including those designed for grip and ease of use.
Hobby Lobby: This chain carries a selection of crafting tools and supplies often giving you options to choose from.
Local Craft Stores: Don’t forget to check out craft stores well. Their experienced staff can recommend tools that are ideal for seniors dealing with dexterity issues.
Specialty Medical and Adaptive Equipment Stores:
Independent Living Aids Stores: These shops stock tools including crafting supplies tailored for seniors or individuals with disabilities.
AliMed: This online platform offers crafting tools that cater to needs.
Shopping Tips
Check Customer Reviews: Take a look at what other customers are saying to gauge the usefulness and reliability of the tools.
Ask for Recommendations: When you’re in a store don’t hesitate to seek advice from the staff based on your preferences.
Return Policies: Make sure the store has a return policy in place in case the purchased tools do not meet your requirements.
By following these tips you can find the methods to enhance your crafting journey and infuse enjoyment into it.
