Eating and Drinking

The goal of these eating and drinking supplies are to help the person with PSP maintain as much independence as possible. These adaptive tools also reduce the level of assistance needed from caregivers.

Adult Bib: Due to challenges with movement and coordination, eating can become messier for people with PSP. Adult bibs help protect clothing, make cleanup easier, and provide a sense of dignity during meals.

Weighted Utensils:  These utensils are designed with added weight to improve grip and control. This allows for easier grip and allows a person with PSP to continue to feed themselves with less difficulty.

Adaptive Plates: These plates feature raised edges to make it easier for someone with PSP to scoop food onto their utensil by themselves. These plates sometimes have non-slip bases.

Adaptive Cups: Adaptive cups are used to prevent spills and assist in regulating fluid intake. These cups can be used in addition to liquid thickeners.

Bathroom Supplies

The bathroom is one of the most hazardous places in any building, regardless of any diagnosed illnesses. The combination of water and slippery surfaces makes the bathroom especially dangerous for those with PSP. Fortunately, there are many bathroom supplies that can make the bathroom safer, with a sample noted below.

Shower Chair or Tub Bench: As mobility declines, it can become difficult for a person with PSP to bathe safely. A shower chair or a tub bench helps to make this safer by providing stability and support. If transferring into a shower from a wheelchair is needed, a swivel shower chair allows the caregiver to safely transfer their loved on to the chair and then turn the seat into the shower.

Grab Bars: Grab bars make it safer for your loved one to navigate the bathroom and provide a sturdy place for them to grab.

Toilet Riser: A toilet riser makes it easier for someone with PSP to sit down and stand up from the toilet.

Handheld Shower Head: A handheld shower head allows a person with PSP to bathe themself while they are seated in a shower chair. As the disease progresses, it also enables caregivers to reach all necessary areas without getting wet.

Mobility

Walker: Walkers help prevent falls and provide a level of mobility for individuals with PSP. There are multiple different models and types of walkers and the choice of which one is appropriate should be made with the help of a physical therapist, occupational therapist, or a doctor.

Standard Wheelchair: A standard wheelchair is used when it becomes too difficult or unsafe for your loved one to walk. It can also be used if you are doing more vigorous activity that may result in your loved one fatiguing easily.  

Transfer Wheelchair: Transfer wheelchairs are often easier to use at home, especially in older houses with narrow doorways that standard wheelchairs cannot pass through. These chairs are narrower and more maneuverable in tight spaces.

Mobility Ramp: Mobility ramps improve access to the home. It is important to ensure that ramps are installed at an appropriate, ADA compliant angle to maximize safety.

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