Adaptive Equipment for Eating

Eating involves a number of skills, and a wide range of disabilities can interfere with this routine activity of daily life. People with disabilities who are incapable of self-feeding with normal utensils may be able to feed themselves with the help of adaptive equipment. This increases their independence and self esteem and reduces the burden on caregivers who can take a less active role in feeding. Seek the advice of an occupational or feeding therapist to choose the right equipment for the individual.

Seating

• Proper positioning is essential not only to successfully developing and practicing eating skills, but also for safety. People with oral motor or swallowing difficulties are at greater risk of aspiration, which is food or drink getting into the lungs. They need to be seated so the food doesn't slip back in their mouths before they are prepared to swallow. Their hips, knees and ankles should all be at a 90 degree angle during the meal. The eating surface should be flat and stable.

Plates

• High-edged plates help people with fine motor skill deficits scoop up food more easily by allowing them to push the utensil against the edge of the plate. High edges are also helpful to people with visual impairments, giving them tactile feedback through the utensil so they know where the edge of the plate is. Plates should be made of durable materials such as plastic so they don't break if they are knocked off the eating surface.

Eating Utensils

• People who find it difficult to grip normal silverware can get utensils with built-up handles which make them easier to grip, or get adaptive sleeves which can be put over normal spoons and forks. If the person cannot grip at all, utensils with Velcro can be strapped directly to the person's hand.

  Weighted spoons and forks provide extra tactile feedback, which may be necessary for certain neurological disorders. Angled spoons require less wrist movement, so they may be appropriate for people with limited wrist mobility.

Cups

• Mugs with built-up handles can be gripped better than normal handles. Lightweight plastic cups are easier to lift than ceramic or glass vessels and won't break if dropped. Sippy cups won't spill as much if knocked over. For older children or adults who don't want to drink from a cup made for toddlers, sport cups serve the same purpose, though they may not have the handles sippy cups do.

Mats

• Non-skid mats placed under dishes keep them from sliding around, making it easier for the person to find the plate when needed and reducing the chance of messes. The same mats can be put on the chair seat, possibly eliminating the need to use hip straps on someone who slips forward in the chair.