On October 27th, we celebrate World Occupational Therapy Day, a day dedicated to recognising the remarkable contributions of occupational therapists across the globe. Occupational therapy plays an important role in improving the lives of individuals by promoting independence, improving the quality of life, and helping people engage in meaningful daily activities. From children needing developmental support to elderly individuals seeking to maintain independence, OTs tailor their approach to meet each person's unique needs. At Tenura, we proudly support the OT community by providing innovative daily living aids that help therapists and their clients succeed.

What is Occupational Therapy?

Occupational therapy is a client-centred profession that enables individuals to participate in everyday tasks that are important to them. Whether helping a child learn fine motor skills for school, aiding an adult in recovering from injury or supporting seniors in maintaining their autonomy at home, OTs develop personalised strategies based on each individual's circumstances. The holistic approach of OT emphasises performing tasks and enhancing the meaning and satisfaction derived from engaging in these activities, promoting a greater sense of purpose and fulfilment.

The Impact of Occupational Therapy

World Occupational Therapy Day reminds us of occupational therapy's profound impact on individuals who face physical, emotional, or cognitive challenges. For many, the simple ability to carry out daily activities can be life-changing. Occupational therapists work closely with clients to set personalised goals, whether regaining the ability to cook after an injury or maintaining mobility in the face of ageing. Through tailored care plans, OTs help individuals take control of their lives and navigate their unique challenges. Research has shown that occupational therapy significantly enhances life satisfaction and independence, focusing on assisting individuals to participate in meaningful activities that bring them joy and self-worth.

Celebrating Occupational Therapy Day

The celebration of World Occupational Therapy Day is an opportunity to raise awareness and honour the achievements of occupational therapists and the individuals they help. Many communities organise events, workshops, and seminars to promote the profession and its impact. Social media campaigns allow people to share their stories and experiences with occupational therapy, using hashtags like #WorldOTDay to spread awareness and celebrate the profession's impact. You can also support occupational therapy initiatives by getting involved in your community, participating in local events, or advocating for better access to OT services.

How Tenura Supports Occupational Therapy

At Tenura, we see firsthand the transformative power of occupational therapy. Take the story of John, for example. After suffering a severe injury, John struggled with basic tasks like dressing and cooking. With the guidance of his occupational therapist and the help of Tenura's daily living aids, John regained his independence and confidence. Our adaptive products, including grip aids and non-slip mats, played a crucial role in helping him recover and manage everyday tasks more effectively. Similarly, Emily, a young girl with developmental challenges, made remarkable progress thanks to her occupational therapist. Using sensory products from Tenura, Emily improved her motor skills, making participating in classroom activities easier and boosting her confidence.

Tenura’s Role in Supporting OTs and Their Clients

At Tenura, we understand occupational therapists' essential role in supporting their clients' progress. That's why we're committed to providing products that assist in the rehabilitation and daily living of individuals who face mobility and dexterity challenges. Our adaptive tools, such as our grip aids and non-slip products, are designed to support individuals in performing daily tasks more efficiently and confidently. Tenura's products align with occupational therapy goals by promoting independence and helping people achieve greater control over their daily activities, whether holding utensils, gripping surfaces or carrying out self-care routines.

Customised Solutions for Unique Needs

Occupational therapy is not a one-size-fits-all approach, nor are Tenura's products. We collaborate with occupational therapists to ensure our aids meet the unique needs of their clients, making daily life more manageable. By incorporating therapist input, we can continuously innovate and provide practical, user-friendly tools that enhance therapy sessions and everyday use. From elderly individuals managing arthritis to children with sensory challenges, Tenura's solutions are designed to empower people of all ages and abilities.

As we celebrate World Occupational Therapy Day, let's take a moment to appreciate the incredible work of occupational therapists and the difference they make in people's lives. At Tenura, we are honoured to be part of this journey by providing practical, innovative daily living aids that support independence and improve the quality of life. Together, with the help of OTs, we can empower individuals to live their best lives.

Let's celebrate the power of occupational therapy and reflect on how we can further support the profession. Whether participating in local initiatives, sharing stories, or providing resources, World Occupational Therapy Day reminds us that with the right tools and guidance, we can help make a difference in the lives of individuals and their communities.

In today's modern kitchen, efficiency, safety, and accessibility are essential for creating a pleasant cooking experience. Tenura's innovative range of daily living aids is designed to meet these needs, offering practical solutions that enhance comfort, promote independence, and improve overall kitchen functionality. Whether you're a professional chef, a passionate home cook, or someone with specific mobility challenges, Tenura products are crafted to make kitchen tasks easier and more enjoyable.

Enhancing Kitchen Accessibility

Tenura's non-slip mats and grip aids are crucial in maintaining stability and control during food preparation. These silicone-based mats adhere firmly to countertops, preventing items like cutting boards, bowls, and kitchen utensils from sliding or shifting. The heat-resistant properties of Tenura mats make them ideal for placing hot pots, pans, and dishes, ensuring safety while cooking. This stability enhances safety and boosts efficiency by allowing cooks to focus on their food without worrying about items slipping or moving unexpectedly.

Supporting Comfort and Ergonomics

Cooking often involves repetitive motions and grip-intensive tasks, which can strain muscles and joints, especially for individuals with limited dexterity or strength. Tenura's jar openers and grip enhancers solve common kitchen challenges ergonomically. These aids help users effortlessly open bottles, jars, and containers of various sizes, reducing strain and discomfort. Tenura products enable users to maintain independence and enjoy cooking activities with greater ease by promoting a more comfortable grip and reducing the effort required for everyday tasks.

Promoting Safety in the Kitchen

Safety is paramount in any kitchen environment. Tenura's anti-slip grip strips and coasters are designed to enhance safety by providing additional stability to utensils, small appliances, and tableware. These discreet yet effective solutions minimize the risk of accidents such as spills and slips, which are particularly useful in high-traffic areas of the kitchen where spills are more likely. By securing items firmly in place, Tenura products contribute to a safer cooking environment, giving users peace of mind as they go about their daily cooking routines.

Practical Applications and User Testimonials

The versatility of Tenura daily living aids extends beyond basic functionality, impacting users' lives in meaningful ways. Real-life applications demonstrate how these products have transformed kitchens globally, providing independence, improving efficiency, and enhancing overall quality of life. User testimonials highlight the positive impact of Tenura products, showcasing personal experiences of increased confidence, improved safety, and greater enjoyment in everyday cooking tasks.

Embracing Kitchen Innovations

Tenura daily living aids are more than just tools; they are innovations that empower users to embrace their culinary creativity while overcoming physical challenges. Whether you want to improve grip strength, enhance safety measures, or make cooking more comfortable, Tenura offers reliable solutions tailored to diverse needs. From professional kitchens to home settings, Tenura products are designed to foster independence and enhance the kitchen experience for users of all abilities.

As kitchen tools often change to meet the demands of modern living, Tenura remains at the forefront of innovation with its range of high-quality daily living aids. Integrating these products into your kitchen routine can enhance safety, improve efficiency, and enjoy a more comfortable cooking experience. Explore the full range of Tenura products today to learn how they can transform your kitchen into a space where independence and accessibility thrive.

Opening a stubborn jar can be a daily frustration for many, turning a simple task into an ordeal, especially for those who rely on disability aids. Whether it's a jar of pickles, pasta sauce, or any tightly sealed container, the struggle to gain access is real. Fortunately, there are various types of jar openers on the market designed to alleviate this common annoyance. In this article, we'll delve into the different types of disability aids, particularly jar openers, and shine a spotlight on Tenura's silicone jar openers as the ultimate solution.

Types of Jar Openers:  

Manual Jar Openers

Manual jar openers are the traditional go-to for many who use disability aids. They usually consist of a handheld device with adjustable teeth that grip the lid. While these openers can be effective, they require a fair amount of physical effort, which can pose a challenge for those with limited hand strength or dexterity, making disability aids like Tenura's jar openers a preferable choice.

Electric Jar Openers

Electric jar openers represent a significant leap in automation and are highly regarded as disability aids. These devices automatically twist the lid open with the push of a button. While they are convenient, they tend to be bulky and can be costly, making Tenura's silicone jar openers an accessible alternative.

Grip Mats

Grip mats are non-slip pads that can be placed under a jar to prevent it from moving while you twist the lid. While they can be effective for smaller jars, they may not provide sufficient leverage for stubborn or larger lids, making Tenura's jar openers, designed as disability aids, a more comprehensive solution.

Silicone Jar Openers by Tenura - A Versatile Disability Aid:

Now, let's focus on Tenura's silicone jar openers, a game-changer in the world of kitchen disability aids. These openers are not just another gadget; they are a testament to simplicity, effectiveness, and accessibility for those who rely on disability aids.

Tenura's silicone jar openers are crafted from high-quality, food-grade silicone. What sets them apart is their remarkable non-slip properties. The silicone material grips tightly to both the jar lid and your hand, providing the necessary traction to effortlessly twist the lid open. This feature is particularly advantageous for those with limited hand strength due to aging, arthritis, or other disabilities, making Tenura's jar openers a reliable choice among disability aids.

Versatile Applications Beyond Jars:

Tenura's silicone jar openers, renowned for their effectiveness in opening stubborn jar lids, offer versatile applications throughout daily life. These non-slip wonders can enhance independence by providing a secure grip on various surfaces. Use them on taps and faucets, making water control easier; wrap them around door knobs for improved accessibility; open medication bottles with ease; loosen tight caps on household items; secure cookware and utensil handles; and even enhance grip on exercise equipment during therapy or workouts. Tenura's silicone jar openers are more than just kitchen aids; they're versatile companions for conquering daily challenges and promoting self-reliance in various aspects of life.

Independence for the Elderly and Disabled Individuals:

Maintaining an independent lifestyle is a cherished goal, especially as we age or face mobility challenges due to disabilities. Simple tasks like opening a jar can become major obstacles. Tenura's silicone jar openers empower the elderly and disabled individuals to conquer these challenges and continue enjoying the autonomy they desire. With the non-slip grip, they can confidently open jars without assistance, preserving their self-reliance and dignity through the use of disability aids.

A Boon for Arthritis Sufferers and Occupational Therapists:

Arthritis can make everyday tasks painful and frustrating. The grip and twist required to open jars can exacerbate joint pain. Tenura's silicone jar openers offer a gentle yet secure grip, reducing the strain on arthritic hands. They are a welcome relief for individuals battling this condition or those undergoing occupational therapy, making it easier to access essential foods and maintain a balanced diet, thanks to these disability aids.

What is the Best Jar Opener for Seniors and Disabled Individuals?

Tenura's silicone jar openers have earned acclaim as the best disability aids for seniors and disabled individuals. Their non-slip grip and user-friendly design make them an ideal choice for those with limited hand strength, dexterity, or mobility issues. These openers provide a newfound sense of independence and convenience, allowing seniors to maintain their autonomy and making daily tasks much easier for disabled individuals who rely on disability aids.

In conclusion, the frustration of wrestling with a stubborn jar lid is a universal experience, especially for those who need disability aids. However, it doesn't have to be a daily annoyance. Tenura's silicone jar openers offer a simple, affordable, and effective solution as disability aids. They benefit the elderly and disabled individuals by promoting independence, providing relief for arthritis sufferers, and serving as a valuable resource for occupational therapists. With Tenura, the lid to convenience is always within reach, making these jar openers an essential part of disability aids. Say goodbye to jar-opening woes and hello to hassle-free access to your favourite treats.

Initially, this observance day was known as WFOT Occupational Therapy International Day, until 2010 when it was renamed Occupation Therapy Day/World OT Day. The observation day became official and globally recognised in 2010.

The organisation behind OT day is the World Federation of Occupational Therapists, WFOT, which provides a supportive community for occupational therapists globally with over 100 organisations and 580,000 occupational therapists in their membership program. Their key goals are to provide a "global voice for occupational therapists" and "set the standards" for OT practices. They want to educate their members with the latest industry news and techniques, delivering this via their approved education programmes.

The World Federation of Occupational Therapists is pushing the focus this year on displaced persons and marginalised communities and how best to support them as occupational therapists.

This crucial topic is at the forefront of people's minds following shifts in the soci­oen­vi­ron­mental climate following the recent events and those seeking refuge from Afghanistan.

World OT Day 2021 Theme

This year's World OT Day theme is "Belong. Be you.", which lends itself to their latest initiative. They are releasing content regarding diversity, adversity and inclusion, and how we can work together to improve community relations and resilience. We all come across struggles in daily life. Some people in our local and global communities have a more challenging time overcoming adversity, recently highlighted by the Black Lives Matter movement and the scenes in Kabul following the evacuation of troops in Afghanistan.

For some readers, you may be unaware of the essential work that occupational therapists do, especially concerning the above. Still, this blog will demonstrate how vital their role is in our communities and why we need to show our support.

Occupational therapists can help those living in crisis or transitioning to a new location after seeking asylum. They can utilise socio-political occupational therapy techniques to help patients further. They can help by giving a person structure to their daily lives to provide a sense of normalcy. Their work improves the patient's mental health and integration into their new local communities. Integration is paramount and can be acquired through education and bridging the gap between cultural differences. These techniques aim to develop the patient's independence.

As you can imagine, moving to a new area or even country, things can vary, from the types of food to the typical clothing fashions. It was not a choice for displaced humans to move, and the migration was involuntary or even coerced. These people could be fleeing persecution, war/conflict and violations of their human rights. So, understanding culture is beneficial for all parties involved, especially as there may be a language barrier in the initial move.

If you are an OT and want to improve your knowledge surrounding this years theme, there are two free courses available from the World Federation of Occupational Therapists website:

• WFOT Disaster Management for Occupational Therapists
• Occupational Therapy: Working with Displaced Persons

Get Involved in World OT Day 2021

You can be involved in World OT Day via the #WorldOTDay hashtag, post a picture of you celebrating at your practice and help spread awareness. They also have some social media images and other content you can use to help promote World OT Day via their website.

Other hashtags you can use include:

• #WorldOc­cu­pati­onal­The­rapyDay
• #Occu­pati­onal­The­rapyDay
• #WFOTOc­cu­pati­onal­The­rapy­In­ter­nati­onalDay

The WFOT has partnered with PromOTing Occupational Therapy. Their theme is to "Pay it Forward", calling Occupational Therapist practitioners and students globally to volunteer some of their time to help make a difference in the world. They have also made a map detailing the countries that have taken part over the years.

If you are looking for some accounts to follow so you can share their content and join in on the conversation, be sure to view:

• World Federation of Occupational Therapists
• World OT Day
• Tenura's Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts

We Support World OT Day + Claim Your Free Gift

We want to give away a pack of 4 anti-slip coasters with any purchase. The drinks coasters are made from non-slip silicone, which prevents drinks from being easily knocked over and spilling. To claim the free gift, add the discount code FREECOASTEROTD at checkout. We hope you have enjoyed this blog and will get involved in this years OT day. Make sure you don't miss out on other healthcare observation days and future free gifts by subscribing to our blog.

Please note, you must spend over £10 on the Tenura website to redeem the offer via the discount code. The promotion is running from 14/10/21 to 14/11/21.

In our previous blog, we explored Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). Today we are looking at Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs). 

What does IADL mean?

Instrumental activities of daily living, IADLs, are tasks we perform each day that keep our bodies healthy, allowing us to live independently and as active community members. Both mental and physical health factors impact these complex tasks involved in our day-to-day lives.

What are the 7 IADLS?

The seven IADLs are practised by most physi­ot­he­rapists and occupational therapists, helping determine the level of care their patient requires and any assistive products that could help the patient during the completion of their IADLs.

Due to illness, surgery or disability, some patients may need more help in an area than others, so it is essential to review each patient individually. The seven IADLs and some helpful products:

1. Communication

In our homes, we constantly communicate with one another and the outside world through channels such as mail, emails and phone calls. Being able to stay in touch with others is essential to daily life. It allows you to pay the bills and let others know how you are doing. It's great to stay in touch with people, providing the feeling of connection and companionship.

Many older adults, especially since lockdown, have been alone for a significant length of time, and a little phone call can be the highlight of their day. The older generation hates to feel like a burden, and sometimes they can avoid reaching out, even when they need it the most.

Handling mail poses difficulties, from confusing forms to tiny text. Older adults may find writing tricky and require a writing aid. At Tenura, we have cutlery grips that slide onto pens increasing the handle's grip, comfort and width. A thicker pen means less dexterity is required to hold it.

2. Transportation

We have to leave the house for many reasons like getting fresh air, going shopping or meeting up with friends. Navigating outside the house can be daunting for those with mobility impairments due to the potential risk of slip and fall accidents. Building up confidence with a walking aid could reassure the user to once again go outside independently.

Walking aids such as Zimmer frames can be further adapted to meet a person's specific needs. For example, wrapping Tenura grip strips around the handle improves grip and hold, perfect for those lacking grip strength.

For some, a wheelchair is a more appropriate mobility aid. To get in and out of the wheelchair independently, walking aids can be a great help, along with a Tenura non-slip floor mat. By having a good foothold, you can move more easily without the risks. Tenura silicone floor mat has adhesive like qualities, giving you a secure footing as the mat won't slide out from under your feet.

For some, a guide dog or other assistance animal is required or help them navigate. You will need to talk to a specialist charity to access this type of assistance.

3. Cooking/­Feeding

Cooking involves many risks and challenges, especially if the person has a disability that affects their use of cooking equipment.

Tenura sells silicone grip roll, which is grip-enhancive, increasing a person's ability to hold onto knives and other larger utensils.

Knives are often heavily used in a kitchen for food prep, and good, comfortable grip is vital. Keeping cutting knives sharp is also important, as a dull knife can lead to a lack of control. Using Tenura grip strips or grip roll on the handle of a knife when cutting with or sharpening knives can help reduce the likelihood of accidents and injury. A Tenura anti-slip mat can be placed under chopping boards to increase grip with the surface and further prevent slips.

Tenura anti-slip mats create a non-slip surface for plates and bowls to rest when spreading or mixing. A non-slip surface allows you to perform these function with more control and less risk of spills or injury. Tenura anti-slip mats are particularly useful if you only have the use of one hand or arm, as it will hold plates and bowls in place for you.

You can wrap Tenura grip roll around panhandles as it's heat resistant (up to 250°C), stopping hands from getting burnt during the cooking process.

Feeding can be a struggle for people with conditions such as arthritis or Parkinson's due to weakened grip or hand tremors, but using Tenura cutlery grips can add comfort due to the increased handle's width that makes cutlery easier to hold. Cutlery grips can slide onto many kitchen utensils to improve grip. For any utensils too large to fit, wrap Tenura silicone grip roll around the handle instead. 

Tenura sells silicone grip roll, which is grip-enhancive, increasing a person's ability to hold onto knives and other larger utensils. You can wrap Tenura grip roll around panhandles as it's heat resistant (up to 250°C), stopping hands from getting burnt during the cooking process.

Opening jars and containers can be tricky too. We have all found jars tough to open, but you can use a Tenura jar opener to enhance grip on jar lids and other large containers with a twist-off cap. They reduce the amount of force necessary, which puts less strain on muscles and joints.

4. Shopping

Shopping involves the IADL, transportation, as people need to get to the shops, such as supermarkets or pharmacies. Of course, they could shop online, which has its own set of difficulties, from computer literacy to website accessibility.

Going shopping requires many skills, such as writing shopping lists, budgeting, self-control and forethought. Mobility, another IADL, has a key role in this activity as mobility around shops is crucial.

You can adapt your mobility aids to make them more comfortable. Wheelchair users can line the wheelchair's footrest to stop feet from sliding off. Cut Tenura silicone grip roll to a suitable size, peel away the backing and apply it to the footrest for improved grip. If you have a wheelchair with a shelf, you can line it with Tenura grip roll, which means your shopping will remain in place and won't slide around, thanks to silicone's gripping properties.

Writing shopping lists can also be beneficial, as it keeps things organised and helps you budget.

5. Housework

Many jobs fall under the umbrella term of housework, including cleaning the bathroom, dusting and hoovering, folding clothes, and putting them away. Each of these tasks requires different movements and actions.

Mobility issues can prevent someone from completing housework, as tasks are no longer manageable with their condition. Avoiding housework creates many problems. The house can fall into disarray, becoming a health risk and negatively affect mental health.

Those with limited mobility may find one or more of these daily activities tricky, but carers or products can help. A person can use non-slip mats to remain organised. You can apply Tenura Extreme mats to walls and stick dry objects such as keys or kitchen utensils to their surface, making them highly visible. There are two colours available; clear and green. We suggest using the green Tenura Extreme mat as a visual aid to make belongings stand out for someone with a visual impairment.

Some jobs require heavy lifting, such as taking rubbish outside. Other tasks require a mechanical or electrical engineer, meaning a professional needs to be called, which plays into the IADL, communication.

6. Medications

Those who require assistance with their instrumental activities of daily living sometimes have a condition that requires medication. Being able to self-medicate, following the directions of your doctors is essential. Overdosing or forgetting to take your medication runs serious risks.

Some products can help, such as alarms and daily pillboxes. But certain people, such as those with dementia, can forget to take their pills entirely and will only be confused by the alarm or box. They will require a carer who can keep track of their intake. 

At Tenura, we sell bottle openers that are grip-enhancing, so if it's the child lock/lack of grip that is stopping them from managing their medication, this nifty gadget could be a good investment.

Contacting and communicating symptoms with doctors is essential for prescribing correct medications. Notebooks can help record new symptoms, dosage, and expiration dates and can be a great tool to help with diagnosis and future prescriptions.

7. Finances

Writing shopping lists, putting aside savings, and budgeting properly is an important life skill. Some people need help in this area as having a lack of control over your finances considerably strains mental health.

Finance plays into another IADL, communication. Bills and spam can come through the post, and it can be challenging to distinguish between the two, especially for vulnerable people, who are more susceptible to scammer's tricks. It may be worthwhile a carer checking over the persons mail prior.

Some people are forgetful, so setting up direct debits circumvents issues. Online banking allows individuals to access banking services all in one place, essential for those struggling with transportation, another IADL.

Finances can be a tricky subject to approach, but it's a serious topic that needs addressing. Luckily those struggling with IADLs are more likely to reach out as these activities tend to be less personal than ADLs.

 

We hope you can take some inspiration from this blog, including helpful tips and products. You can explore the full Tenura range via our website.

Above we have listed some solutions, but without talking to the person struggling with IADLs, you can't fully understand the best method of help, which is imperative when finding a suitable solution. We hope this blog has given you some good ideas. For more help on similar topics and exclusive product discounts, subscribe to the Tenura blog.

In this blog, we explore the importance of Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and what they are. It's essential to get a clear understanding so you can better care for a patient or family member. Plus, we have rounded up some brilliant products that promote independent living by making ADLs manageable.

What does ADL stand for?

ADL stands for Activities of Daily Living, which comprises of five basic tasks required to live an independent and healthy life. Members of the population who have recently received surgery or have disabilities/a condition, such as arthritis, can struggle to complete daily tasks. They are accessed individually, allowing carers to detect areas where the client needs additional help.

What are the 5 ADLS?

1. Personal Hygiene

A person must be able to keep a suitable level of hygiene to meet the standards of ADLs. A person may not meet their needs due to a disability. Some wheelchair users may struggle due to limited mobility, making tasks such as bathing tricky.

Another reason could be the side effects of the medication, causing depression. People with depression tend to disregard bathing. Those with depression usually have decreased energy levels, making bathing an overwhelming or neglected aspect of their life.

Personal hygiene extends beyond just bathing and encompasses brushing your teeth and hair, looking after your nails, feet, scalp, oral hygiene, and ear organ hygiene. There are many areas of our body we need to care for to make sure we stay healthy. Personal hygiene can help prevent the spread of diseases, so it's essential.

Not brushing your teeth can lead to bad breath, toothache, the loss of teeth and even gum cancer.

There are products on the market that can aid with specific issues a person may encounter during these tasks. At Tenura, we have developed cutlery grips, an adaptive aid you slip cutlery or utensils like toothbrushes, combs, and other hygiene-related products into, to increase the handle's width. Thin handles can prevent those with limited dexterity in their hands from having proper control. The silicone structure of the cutlery grips is grip-enhancive.

2. Dressing

From selecting clothes to putting them on, this task requires a variety of movement types. Lifting your arms and putting them through your shirt sleeves involves large mobility movements, whereas buttoning the shirt requires more finicky actions. For people with conditions such as arthritis, the manoeuvrability of limbs and hands is limited, making putting clothes on tricky. There are so many dressing aids to help with the different aspects of getting dressed.

Getting dressed shouldn't be a painful experience, and we realised that many of these dressing aids have thin metal handles, making them tricky to hold for those with limited mobility in their hands. But we have a solution. By cutting Tenura grip roll into strips and building up a thicker handle, you can make dressing aids more comfortable to grasp. Tenura grip roll is made from our grip-enhancing silicone, so your hands will not slide off the handle like they would with the use of the metal handle alone.

Being unable to change clothes or get undressed can affect other activities of daily living. Remaining in the same clothes for days would lead to poor personal hygiene and allow germs to breed, which could cause illness. Another affected daily living activity would be continence due to the inability to unbutton your trousers to use the toilet.

 

3. Eating

Children are a great example of the stages a person may be at when eating. Babies need complete assistance during the task, whereas toddlers have developed partial fine motor skills to hold cutlery and complete the actions required to transport the food from their plate to their mouth. Following this, at 5/6 years old, they can fully feed themselves. You need to evaluate your child's capabilities just as you do with persons in your care. Some people will require full assistance during meal times, whereas those who have some fine motor skills and the coordination necessary to move the food from the plate to their mouth may benefit from the use of adaptive products.

You can add Tenura cutlery grips to the handle's of your eating utensils, such as your knife or fork, to increase the handle's width, making using cutlery comfortable as the utensils are easier to hold. They also are made from 100% silicone which gives them grip-enhancing properties, stopping the cutlery from sliding out of your grasp. We have children's cutlery grips for smaller hands.

Getting the right foods is essential to health. The body needs the correct nutrients to work effectively and fight off infection. Food also gives the body energy to complete other daily living activities.

 

4. Continence

Being able to go to the toilet and control your bowels is another essential daily task. A person may not be capable of controlling their bladder or can't physically move to the bathroom. Understanding the root problem can allow you to put things in place to help the individual.

Bathroom floors tend to be shiny and smooth, making getting on and off the toilet tricky as you can't get a foothold, but we have come up with clever ideas to help those struggling to use the toilet safely.

If a person struggles to get up from the toilet, the use of grab rails can be helpful. But you may find them uncomfortable to hold and not as grip-enhancing as you would like. By wrapping Tenura grip strips around the grab rail handle, you can improve both comfort and grip due to the soft yet grip-enhancing properties of the silicone grip strips.

The contour rug you have around your toilet can be made safer using a Tenura non-slip floor mat underneath. Place your Tenura floor mat under your bathroom rugs to add additional non-slip properties making the bathroom rug extra secure whilst keeping the aesthetic of your bathroom. The non-slip properties mean rugs won't slide but instead will provide a reliable surface to manoeuvre on and off the toilet.

Tenura floor mats have adhesive-like properties that help keep bathroom rugs in place. The floor mat sticks itself to the floor, preventing the rug from moving and allowing the person on the toilet to get a proper foothold without the risk of slips and falls.

If necessary, you can remove the floor mat, and upon removal, no residue will be left behind.

Please note that the Tenura silicone range loses its non-slip properties when wet.

 

5. Mobility

Moving around, whether that's to go to the kitchen for food, or the bathroom, it's critical to health. A person may find their mobility is compromised following injury, surgery or a medical condition. A person may have difficulty in certain areas. For some, they may require hoists around the house or live-in care. Others can get by with a simple Tenura non-slip floor mat that gives them grip and increased confidence when completing activities of daily living. Non-slip floor mats provide a foothold for the user, even on slippery floors. You can use them around the house, beside beds or sofas to help you manoeuvre safely.

It may be worthwhile installing Tenura non-slip bath stickers, which aid a person with mobility in bathrooms or areas frequently exposed to water. You can line a bath or shower's base with Tenura bath stickers. They apply best to smooth surfaces, providing the area is cleaned first with an alcohol-based cleaner (cream-based cleaners leave behind a powder residue that causes the stickers to lift). For more information, please read our application bath stickers blog.

 

Now you have a basic understanding of the products that can help patients or family members overcome the struggles associated with activities of daily living. We hope this blog has given you ideas to provide further support and find effective products for anyone in your care.

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Occupational Therapy Day will take place on the 27^th of October 2020; it's an internationally recognised observance day that highlights the importance of hard work but also mental and physical wellbeing. This event celebrates the outstanding work of occupational therapists globally through their efforts to re-train and develop the human brain.

Tenura wants to say thank you to Occupational Therapists, and therefore, we are offering a 15% discount on the Tenura Kitchen Pack, an OT essential. Type in the discount code OTD15 at checkout.

What is Occupational Therapy?

A form of healthcare, occupational therapy (OT), is about rehabilitation via training and therapy; these techniques help patients attain the skills necessary for everyday life and to renter the workplace. Often a person requires OT if they have a physical or mental problem (impairment may be better than ‘problem’) that is currently impacting their life/ability to work.

The role of an occupational therapist is vast and includes developing everyday skills, like:

• Motor Skills (The action/movement of muscles – to walk, stand and balance)
• Life Skills (Cooking, cleaning and getting dressed)
• Social Skills (Handling rejection, rewards, and social interactions positively)
• Cognitive Skills (Problem-solving, decision making, and other brain-based skills)
• Coordination (Minimises the risk of injury while also promoting exercise)

People of all ages can seek an occupational therapist for several reasons. A person may need the help of an OT for help regarding birth injuries or defects, sensory processing disorders, autism, rheumatoid arthritis, and other such physical or cognitive difficulties.

To help patients, an OT may suggest you purchase certain types of occupational therapy equipment for the home. At Tenura, we have many home aids that can be beneficial to patients, for instance, the Tenura kitchen pack. Occupational therapy equipment for the home can range from small gadgets that help with menial tasks such as opening a jar, to larger disability aids such as grabrails and adaptive technology.

What is an Observance Day?

Observance days, also known as awareness days, are scattered throughout the year. United Nations General Assembly is one of a few organisations that creates the calendar, taking into account recent and historical events that need national or even global humanitarian reflection. We can all learn from our mistakes and successes for a positive future.

How Can you Participate in Occupation Therapy Day?

You can register to participate in the International Day of Occupational Therapy by arranging a volunteering activity. Over the years, there have been many ways to experience World OT day, including setting up information stands, television appeals, social media campaigns, all to spread the OT message. This year's message is to "Reimagine Doing" which reflects the actions OT community as they help and reimagine the best ways to assist the people in society who need it most.

Tenura has a special discount to help you celebrate Occupational Therapy Day 2020. We are offering a 15% discount on occupational therapy equipment for the home, specifically the Tenura kitchen pack, which contains three helpful aids for the elderly, disabled and other people who need assistance.

The Tenura Kitchen Pack Contains:

1 x Tenura Non-Slip Coaster

People who are seeking the advice of an occupational therapist may find this home aid very useful as it provides a helpful non-slip surface for resting objects you wish to remain in place as they won't get knocked over with ease.

1 x Tenura Silicone Bottle Opener

A silicone bottle opener can be especially useful for someone with disabilities such as Parkinson's, Arthritis or other hand impairments as it helps you to open bottles without the same level of stress in your muscles and joints.

1 x Tenura Silicone Jar Opener

Tenura's silicone jar opener is a larger version of the bottle opener, for use on bigger containers, but also on doorknobs, allowing you to get a firm grasp of the handle due to the silicone grip-enhancing properties.

You can stay on the pulse of the International Day of Occupational Therapy 2020 by following the hashtags:

• #OTDay2020
• #WorldOTDay2020

You can also follow these awesome accounts on Twitter:

• @thewfot
• @promotingot
• @TenuraUK (For special OT discounts)

If you would like to claim 15% off the Tenura kitchen pack enter the discount code OTD15 at checkout before the end of October and don't forget to tag us in your OT day celebrations.

Beings as we haven’t made a blog post in an age, I thought I would delve deep into the recesses of my brain to bring you some updates regarding what has been going on behind the scenes.

As mentioned in our last blog post; Working with OT’s for Innovation in Daily Living Aids, we have been working alongside various occupational therapists to get an outside perspective on current and future products to ensure that our target audience is getting a product that would efficiently assist them in day to day life, and, as we’ve discovered, more! More updates to this will be forthcoming in future blog posts (subscribe to the blog, here), but I can assure you, there have been some excellent discoveries through the use of Tenura daily living aids that you will be able to try in your own home or occupational therapy centre.

You all may have been wondering where our next line of Tenura daily living aids is. I can assure you that they are on their way. You can explore the current range on our website now. I must remain tight-lipped on the new range, as I am not the one who calls the shots on when they are announced (you must ask the organ grinders for that). When they are announced to the public, you will certainly hear about them, and not just from us either, there are a few outside-professionals already in the know, due to tests and feedback to help us develop them. We are very happy with them and should be an astounding evolution in daily living aids.

Is there anything you are hoping to see in the future of low-tech, daily living aids? Please connect with us through our social accounts; Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, we love to hear your thoughts. To stay up to date with Tenura daily living aid releases, subscribe to the blog.

Since the OT exhibition in Glasgow we have been looking at developing some of the newer products in the Tenura range. I have been working alongside Occupational Therapists and asking them;

• How did useful did they find Tenura products?
• What changes to our products could we make so that clients get the most out of our range?
• What other products should we try create and develop?

In the search for answers, we gave a sample of all our products to the Merlin MS Centre in Cornwall.

http://­www.­merlinmscentre.­org.­uk/

The Merlin centre provides a range of expert care, support and therapies to people with Multiple Sclerosis and other neurological conditions.

They have been very helpful in giving us an evaluation of the Tenura range. One person in particular is Kath Smith, who is an Occupational Therapist at The Merlin Centre. Kath mentioned that she found the Tenura products we sent really useful in the centre, and products such as the Tenura Extreme mats in particular have been used not only as mats for trays, but in activities in physiotherapy sessions, more on this soon.

We believe that the best way to develop our range is for us to work directly alongside Occupational Therapists, as their experience and insight will be invaluable in the innovation of current and future Tenura daily living aids.