Designing for the Life Span Segment 3
Designing for the Life Span Segment 3 
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[D]
Tools, Containers and Changes in Strength
Under Construction... Enlarging and softening the handles of kitchen tools and utensils has been seen as one important solution to the problem of reduced strength and closure in the hand. other issues should also be considered, namely: the daily activity of cooking occurs two out of three times in the day when older adults experience the lowest level of strength, highest levels of fatigue and possible confusion - and tremor.
These other aspects of food preparation exacerbate the problems associated with the use of a can opener (as shown) and other functions of this activity.
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All household tasks require some level of dexterity, flexibility and strength. Activities of Daily Living or ADL include such activities as food preparation, home maintenance and cleaning. As shown in this slide, a woman with moderate arthritis in her hands and finger joints is using a manual can-opener that has larger handles and an enlarged turning control. The advantage over electric appliances is that manual devices are more easily cleaned in a sink or a dishwasher.
When the hand is turned, strength is lost. For someone with arthritis, only a small range of movements may be possible in the use of this control - making the task more difficult to perform.
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