Reviews
Bathroom Grab Bar ($25)- I had these installed by maintenance at my last apartment. They are great for safety and secure in the shower or toilet. Highly recommend, but get someone with experience to install it to make sure it works. .
Portable Shower Handles ($22)- These are handy at home, or on vacation where you might not have a rental with handles. However, they don’t work on a few surfaces or if it touches grout/lines. They work great on the right surfaces, but test out before using them.
Detachable Shower Head ($35)- I don’t know if this is the EXACT version I bought, put pretty close. I have a small shower, and this makes sure I can get everywhere. Also, for people with mobility issues this helps a lot so you don’t have to move around to clean yourself.
Slow-Closing Toilet Lid ($30)- Whenever I move I try to make sure the place has something like this. With using the toilet steadily, it is great to not have to worry about closing the lid and it being too loud (since depth perception can be an issue). Highly recommended and easy to install.
Electric Toothbrush ($80)- These are handy at home, and I bring a different (non-electric) one when I travel. My ataxia makes reciprocating motion (back and forth) more difficult. There are much cheaper versions you can find, this is just an example.
Silicone Pad/Jar Opener ($5)- This isn't the EXACT version I bought, put pretty close. I stated above that I have issues with reciprocating motion and cutting certain meat. I have found if I put one of these UNDER the plate it holds the plate in position and it is inconspicuous.
Grip Socks- 4 pairs ($6)- They work great for places that have hardwood floors. If I don’t have them I usually take off my socks so there is less of a chance to slip. I’ve never been in a situation where they gripped “too much” and caused me to fall.
Over Shoe, Boot Traction Cleats/Spikes ($6)- I have only used them once before, but I am going to Minnesota in December, so I will bring them there. They are a really cheap price, so why not try out to see if you like it.
Water Shoes ($10)- I don’t wear sandals because with Ataxia it can be very challenging to walk in them and take them off. I use water shoes all the time since people with Ataxia can have a short delay in moving their feet if something is hot or “spikey”.
Water Bottle- ($25)- A great bottle with a soft and easy way to sip liquid. It does leak a bit if it is full and falls on its side, but nothing to worry about.
Tumbler with a straw ($8)- I carry this in my backpack if I am walking with a liquid. The lid makes sure nothing splashes out, and the straw makes it easy to drink.
Plastic Wine Glasses- Set of 2 ($17)- I originally bought these for a picnic backpack, but after breaking two wine glasses, I try to use them when I can. Great gift for the holidays!
Walking Stick- ($20)- I keep this in the trunk of my car in case I’m ever in a situation where I need it. Also, I like to go to National Parks, so I usually bring it with me when I travel on a plane. I don’t retract/collapse it because I don’t want to deal with that. It will stay strong, and is great for the price.
Portable Stool ($19)- I keep it in my backpack or I bring it in my clear concert bag. I have learned from experience that I need to rest my legs about every hour. If I don’t want to sit on the ground, I use this. It is easily collapsible and it doesn’t take up that much space.
Clear Plastic Holder ($8)- Every-once-in-a-while you will get an ID or pass that is larger than something like a driver’s license. My concert pass (Lawnie Pass) was this, and I usually asked for an ADA pass so I could use the walk-way a seated ticket holder had. This was usually a flimsy piece of paper, so I just put it on the other side of the holder. This avoided me having to dig into my pocket or wallet to find the paper. The holder was cheap enough, so I definitely got $8 of use out of it.
Floor Gel Grip- ($12)- I have a small shower, but got this just-in-case. I used a box cutter to make it to size. It works well, and I seen similar things at relative’s homes.
Self Closing Toothpaste Caps ($7)- I got these for the holidays on my Amazon list. I don’t have a problem closing caps, but I wanted to check them out. Since it has only been two weeks I can’t say for 100% it keeps it fresh, but no issues now.
Boogie Board ($17)- Digital Drawing Tablet, LCD Writing Pad with Instant Erase and Stylus Pen. There are no cords or chargers, it takes up minimal space anywhere in your house. I have horrible handwriting, so I don’t see a big use for it. But I got it on a recommendation, and it was cheap to try out. I just rather use Big Write on my phone if I’m in public.
Shoe Insoles ($13)- This isn’t even something that someone with only mobility issues can use. It is a cheap option to try and see if it helps. I don’t have these EXACT ones, but something like it.
Cooling Towel ($9)- I learned it wasn't me being weak, that heat can worsen ataxia symptoms. To help, I carry a cooling towel/seat rag most of the time. Also, with having a shaved head you can see when I sweat more easily.
Motion Sensor Night Lights ($4)- This is cheap and something many could use. With getting older and some with ataxia having bladder issues (TMI), these can be an effective way to see at night, and not completely wake you (and others) up by turning on the lights.
20 oz. Tumbler ($10)- I have a small one for wine in my backpack with a straw. It is a good idea to have a larger one at home. Make sure to get one with a closing lid. Otherwise, you have to use a finger over the opening so you don’t spill when you walk.
Work Gloves ($10)- I talked about this product last week and used it over the weekend when I was sight seeing again. They work well when you're in the elements of nature, and can also provide a little grip. If you want to use your smartphone too, you might want to look for gloves with that fabric, but they might cost a bit more.
Extending Reacher/Grabber ($15)- I bought these for a relative for a Christmas present knowing they don’t NEED it, but it could be helpful. The thing I thought was cool was a little magnet on the end in case you dropped keys or a coin and don’t want to bend over. Here is a more detailed review and video.
Remote Control Outlet ($19.79)- It was recommended to use on Day Undefined, but I would just use it for a night light/lamp. It requires more effort than to just have something motion activated. The product description says “Can be used in most home appliances, such as electric ovens, toasters, fans, TV and coffee mills, etc.” I don’t use those devices, so I can’t attest to that.
Portable Belt Fan ($18.99)- I talked about a “cooling towel” previously that I pretty much bring with me everywhere I go. If I KNOW I will be walking a lot, and it will be hot I bring this because it is low noise and pretty much hidden. I think it works well.
Serving Utensils “Sushi” ($2.99)- Chopsticks are very hard for me to use because of the coordination involved. I carry these with me in my backpack and have a pair at home for when I have sushi. You could use a fork, but then I either have to balance it or stab it. This looks elegant and not as “plain” as asking for a fork.
Silicone Pencil and Pen Grip ($6.85)- I recently bought these because I noticed a pencil slipping out of my fingers a couple times. It says “Ideal for Individuals with Chronic Pain such as Arthritis, or Tendonitis in Their Hands, Wrists, or Fingers”, so it would be good for multiple people.
Portable Neck Fan ($15.99)- I’m horrible with humidity, so if I’m walking and it is hot out, so I use this when needed. It isn’t loud and does the job of helping to regulate my body temp.
Misting Fan ($12.99)- When I go to a day concert outside, the beach, etc. I bring a misting fan with me. You can fill it up with water before you leave and it takes two AA batteries.
SpryStep® Flex, ($525)- A brace for you ankle-foot (lower leg) to assist with mobility. I think it works fine, but I didn't notice a substantial improvement. I would say it is worth the price point if you can get insurance to pay for it, or if it has a money-back guarantee after you try it.