As the Baby Boomers age we’ve seen a slew of new assistive devices hit the market. Many are quite impressive. I recently wrote a Blog about ones based on technology that included a device that fits in the shoes of Alzheimer’s patients to monitor wandering. There were also sensors that could be placed at points throughout the home to make sure the patient is following their normal routines. Very helpful for remote caregivers.

I met Molly Dye at a networking meeting a while back. She is in the assistive device business and is founder of a company that produces CareZips®. A piece from Molly is below that describes the product. CareZips® are not computer operated…nor are they leading edge technology. That being said, sometimes it is the simple things that can have a real impact…for the caregiver, families and the senior. Molly writes:

“With the aging of America, I hope to see a different mindset in our communities, with more people creating new and innovative products and methods that bring ease & dignity to caregiving. Let’s face it…with advances in healthcare and a flood of senior citizens forthcoming, there will be more and more needs. My decision to develop CareZips® was borne out of trying figure out a simple solution to an old problem.

CareZips® are a unisex 3-zipper trouser, that allows for an easier and more dignified change of the adult brief. How does it work?  The product has a special and unique frontal opening, making it physically easier for caregivers to change the brief while reducing exposure. This might not seem like a big deal…but for those of us that have changed a patient or loved one, the struggles are real. Take a look at our Website and you can get an idea of how CareZips® work.

http://www.carezips.com.

I really hope America starts thinking about eldercare in a different light.  As Baby Boomers age, there will be more people in need than caregivers to take care of them. Simple products can increase the efficiency of caregiving and make life a lot easier for the senior.

I keep my eyes open for simple products that make life easier. Some examples include TidyTops and StandUp Walker. TidyTops are laminate smocks that resemble clothing…are easily washable and prevent people from staining their clothes while eating, doing art projects or any other messy endeavor. StandUp Walker helps seniors stand up on their own independently. What simple but important solutions to help our older adults can you find?”

To Molly’s point, big ideas are not necessarily complicated or based on technology. And we all need to being thinking of how to help make senior transitions more comfortable, efficient and dignified. Way to go Molly!

Adam