Gadgets to Make Life Easier 

Dear Reader, How I wish I had turned on the TV sooner the other day! I came in on a segment of the program that was showing a house that AARP had designed for handicapped people. Although I only have arthritis that slows me down but doesn't put me into a wheelchair, I saw so many things to help that I had thought about or wished for. Even if a "complete" house like this isn't possible for many people, hopefully architects and contractors will put more of these innovations into their designs. I know that strides have been made, and more will be added as time goes on, but it is good for us to keep alert ourselves. For instance: my arthritis has caused a loss of height in my spine. As a result of this I was being choked every time I used my seat belt. When I purchased a new car, I found an adjustment feature had been added. This feature allows you to select the position of higher or lower shoulder level. However, it is very difficult for me to make the adjustment because my hands aren't strong enough to move it. I have to use two hands on the key to start the engine! I understand that there is now something on the market to assist in this, but I just haven't run across it. Wouldn't it be nice if more necklaces had a "loop over" clasp? Sometimes I struggle and struggle with the present ones. For pierced earrings you can put aside the tiny backs and replace them with larger ones. Wonderful, but seemingly insignificant, little invention. You can buy seat cushions to raise you up, but did you ever find attractive ones? I wouldn't mind carrying one around with me if it were just better looking. It makes dining out much more enjoyable when your chin is above the table! In a car you would be able to see out much better if you were using a cushion. Along the dining line, don't you wish that you were given more than a little candle to try to decipher your bill? Older eyes have to work harder. You like subdued lighting, but you also need to see! And I don't want to have to carry a flashlight to weigh down my purse. I will try looking for the aids that can help and hope that you do also. I now have a gadget that makes buttoning easier and it is wonderful. Try it--you'll love it. Grandma