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Devices for Grandparents Who Need Just a Little Help

Cool Products Can Make Everyday Life a Little Easier

By , About.com Guide

These products could be used by almost anyone, but they will be especially appreciated by grandparents who are having a bit of trouble with everyday activities. Some of them are not, strictly speaking, assistive devices, but they can make things easier for lots of grandparents. If you're looking for gifts for grandparents that show a little extra thought, check out these items.

1. See it Bigger Planners from PlanAhead

PlanAhead has a line of See it Bigger Planners that grandparents will love.Photo © S. Adcox
The people at PlanAhead have tapped into a large and growing market with their line of See it Bigger Planners. The planners have all the most popular organizational features, presented in handsome exteriors that don't advertise their easy-to-read interiors. No more struggling to read the fine print; even the yearly calendars are amply sized. Visit the PlanAhead locations page to find a supplier near you.

2. Tiffany Chandelier Magnifier Pendant

Tiffany Magnifier Pendant from the Met StoreImage © Metropolitan Museum of Art Store
Based on a design by Tiffany supervisor Meta K. Overbeck, this magnifier pendant is both a lovely piece of jewelry and an assistive device. With Swarovski crystals and 24K gold overlay, the pendant is lovely enough to make a statement, but with its optical quality glass, it makes taking a close look at something easier, not to mention a lot more glamorous.

3. Sholley Trolley

Grandparents who need a little help will like the Sholley Trolley Shopping Cart from Britain.Photo © Elderluxe
Whether grandparents are making a trip to the corner store or walking to friends' houses with some parcels in tow, they'll appreciate the convenience and smart look of the Sholley Trolley. It's a carrier and a walking device designed in Britain which has been winning fans for 30 years. The handle adjusts to different heights, and there's no rear axle to bump toes on.

4. Leki Wanderfreund Shock-Absorbent Trekking Pole

Leki Wanderfreund Trekking Pole is an assistive device that doesn't look like one.Image Courtesy of PriceGrabber
For the grandparent who could use a little help but doesn't like the look of a traditional cane, a trekking pole can be just the ticket, even if the trek is down the block rather than up a mountain. This model has a soft, easy-to-grip head and an anti-shock system for comfortable walking.
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5. TV Ears Listening Device

The TV Ears Listening Device is a godsend for households where one member has hearing loss.Image Courtesy of PriceGrabber
Having one person in a family who needs the television volume up really high is a stressful situation. The TV Ears listening device allows a person whose hearing is compromised to hear clearly without deafening the other members of the family, or the neighbors. Even those without hearing loss may enjoy this system that allows one person to have quiet time while another person listens.
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6. Cuisinart SmartStick Immersion Blender

The Cuisinart SmartStick Immersion Blender is easy to use and easy to clean.Image Courtesy of PriceGrabber
For grandparents who like to cook, the Cuisinart SmartStick Immersion Blender is a must-have. It's a lightweight alternative to heavy stand mixers. Easy to use and easy to clean, the SmartStick is great for small blending jobs. Blend cream soups right in the pot!
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7. Five-Piece Gardening Set With OXO Good Grips

The OXO Gardening Set with Good Grips handles, some gel-filled, are good gifts for grandparents.Photo © Elderluxe
Chances are that you know about OXO Good Grips through their line of kitchen tools, but they also make tools for the garden. This five-piece set includes three tools with special gel-filled handles and two other tools with the more conventional OXO grip. They're perfect for mini-gardening projects with the grandkids.

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