Lamp switch enlarger: What device will help my grandfather turn on household lamps?
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What device will help my grandfather turn on household lamps?
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Products mentioned in our answer below are provided to inform you about the types of technologies available and have not been evaluated by CanAssist. They may or may not be appropriate for your particular situation. Some technologies and devices may require an in-person assessment. Speak with your health care provider for additional information and support.
With or without arthritis, it can be very difficult to use the finicky switches found on everyday household lamps. You and your grandfather may, therefore, be interested in knowing about lamp switch enlargers, which are pieces of plastic that attach to lamp switches to make them easier to turn on and off. These devices require no electrical connection and are generally quite easy to install. Below are direct links to a few examples of these products:
- Lamp Switch Enlarger (at libertymed.ca) is a handy tool that makes it easier to turn on and off table-top and floor lamps. This device, which comes in a package of two, costs about $10 (CDN), plus an additional shipping fee.
- Easy Lamp Switch Turners (at Easy Comforts) fits over the existing lamp switch to provide assistance with turning lamps on and off. This device costs about $10 (USD) for a set of three, plus an additional shipping fee.
- Big Lamp Switch Enlarger by Maddak Inc. (at elderstore.com) seeks to help individuals with arthritic hands to turn lamp switches. The larger triangular knob is much easier to grip than standard small round switches. This device, which comes in a package of three, is available from a U.S. online retailer and costs about $30 (USD), plus an additional shipping fee.
Keep in mind that your grandfather may need help installing the switch enlargers to make sure they are securely in place.
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