The Best Types of Kettles for Seniors and Disabled People
Overview
It doesn’t matter how old you are or what kinds of everyday problems you may be facing, and no one wants to start the day off without a cup of coffee. Even if you are retired, I’m sure you just want to relax by having a cup of tea or coffee in the morning, and having an easy to use kettle is going to make this easy and achievable no matter what your abilities.
Some people like to use a saucepan to boil their water. However, that will become too difficult for someone who is getting older. As we age, we can become weaker, hard of hearing, and impatient, so using a kettle is much easier. Patients are encouraged to use an electric kettle.
Why is a Kettle Good for Seniors?
A kettle is considered an important appliance to have because it helps seniors and disabled people to continue to lead a normal life. Furthermore, it supports them in being able to live independently.
This is important because it helps the customer maintain a good level of self-esteem, and it gives them the ability to live a relatively normal life because they can perform simple tasks like making a cup of tea by themselves.
There are a few things to consider when you are choosing a kettle for an elderly or disabled person. It needs to be usable and adaptable to situations that could arise, such as the user becoming immobile.
Some things you may need to consider are the different model types, different materials, variances in weight, and other important things that must be kept in mind like safety features and warranty.
There are three main types of kettles – stove-top, pour-over, and electric kettles. They can come in many varieties with different features and styles. Some of the kettles you find could also have added accessories such as a tea infuser included. It is important to focus on safety features rather than any other benefits that are included in the kettle package you purchase.
The best type of kettle for the elderly and disabled persons is a cordless electric kettle as it is lightweight and hassle-free to use. But as we’ll see, there’s more to buying a kettle for seniors than just picking the first one you find.
Safety Precautions for Dementia Patients
Before starting, it is important to check if the person who is going to use it knows how to use an electric kettle. You should explain to them what functions the kettle has and discuss any safety precautions they may need to follow.
In the early stages of dementia, a kettle that is easy and safe to use can be good as it creates a sense of normality and purpose. However, as dementia progresses, it’s easy for a simple appliance like a kettle to become a hazard. Dementia sufferers may forget to fill the kettle before turning it on, overfill it, or they may even try to put an electric kettle on top of a gas stove.
Most dementia sufferers should only use a kettle when they are being supervised, and after use, it should be put away where they won’t be able to get it back out to use.
Using a kettle under supervision can still be a great thing for dementia patients, as they are able to feel more useful and
How to Use an Electric Kettle
Most kettles are simple to assemble. The contents of the box will contain a cord, a base plate, and the actual kettle. Some cords are connected to the base already, but some varieties may have a cord that you will need to connect to the base plate.
The kettle sits on top of the base plate, and this is what supplies the electric to the kettle but also allows you to lift it carry it without the cord attached.
When adding water to the kettle, you can use the water directly from the cold tap. You should make sure the kettle is not being overfilled. Overfilling the kettle can cause spillages, and this can lead to the patient being burnt by the scolding water.
You can assist the patient by clearly marking where the water should be filled to as sometimes the manufacturer’s markings are difficult to see.
Most kettles will have a lever or button that you press to activate the water boiling process. Your kettle may let you know when the water is ready by letting off a whistling sound, or preferably it will turn off automatically.
Once the kettle has boiled, you are able to remove the kettle from the baseplate as it is ready to use. It is important to know that the water is extremely hot, and the patient should always be very careful when using the kettle.
If the elderly person has dementia or significant problems holding the kettle, then they should not use the kettle unsupervised.
How to Select the Best Electric Kettle for Seniors
When you are asked to find out the best electric kettle for your senior or disabled friends, it is essential to consider the important features that will make the appliance easy to use and, most of all, safe to use.
The following is a list of features that you should consider when choosing a new kettle for an elderly or disabled person.
The Weight of The Electric Kettle
The overall weight of the cordless kettle is one of the essential factors that one must consider when deciding on a kettle for comfort and safety purposes.
If you purchase an electric kettle that weighs too much, they might find it difficult to lift, carry, or use the kettle in its correct manner. When trying to pour the water, it may become too heavy for an elderly or disabled person, and this may cause them to drop the kettle and accidentally burn themselves.
It is important to try and purchase a kettle that can hold approximately 5 to 7 cups of water (around 11.5liters).
Switch-Off Mode
The kettle you should consider for your seniors should be one that has an automatic shut-off feature. This may benefit those who accidentally leave it and then forget to close the button even after the water gets boiled.
Whistle
If the kettle doesn’t have an auto switch-off, then instead of a whistle lets you know the water is ready. This means you don’t have to stand there and watch the kettle. You can safely leave the kettle to do another task while you are waiting.
BPA Free
Try to purchase a kettle that is free from BPA. BPA is a chemical that is used to manufacture hard plastic materials and can be used in many items such as a drinking bottle, toiletries, and even eyeglass lenses. The problem with BPA is that it can seep into any foods and drinks you are preparing, and it has been linked to health issues.
BPA can affect your body negatively. People showing higher levels may have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Some companies have started using substitutes for BPA, but these can have similar negative effects on the body – therefore, it is best to avoid plastic altogether.
The inner part of the kettle must be made up of good quality material such as stainless steel or glass. There must be no plastic that comes into contact with the water. The packing of the kettle should clearly state whether it is free from BPA or not.
Concealed Elements
It is important to find a kettle that has concealed elements – this feature is known as cool touch. If a kettle has elements that are open, they could become damaged by water that has leaked or by spills.
Sturdy base
The kettle you decide on should have a sturdy base plate. The foundation should have non-skid elements. This is an essential safety feature, so the kettle does not slip.
Drip-Free Spout
Make sure you find a spout that doesn’t drip or splash. Nothing is more annoying than being splashed, especially by hot water. This can cause uncomfortable burns that can take a while to heal.
Size of the Kettle
The size of the kettle should be as compact as possible and low in weight. Remember that once you add water, it is going to get heavier.
Comfortable, Heat-Safe Handle
You should aim to find an ergonomic handle that has an insulation feature. This means it is designed in such a way that the kettle handle will stay cool to avoid burning yourself.
Water Gauge
A clear water gauge is helpful in ensuring that you can easily see how much water is left in the kettle. You can also use this to monitor how much water you have used.
Purchasing a kettle which contains all these features will benefit elderly users by making it so much easier to have a nice cup of tea or coffee, thereby maintaining their independence.
The Best Electric Kettles for Seniors
Chew Fun Automatic Electric Kettle
Product description:
Stainless steel, 1500W cordless kettle with a 1.7 Liter capacity. It is free from BPA. It has temperature controls, boil-dry protection, and OTTER Thermostat Technology.
Pros:
- Water is boiled in 3-7 minutes.
- It is easy to clean.
- The lid opens to 90 degrees, making filling the kettle easy.
- It contains a power-off button with boiling dry protection.
- You can easily select from the preset temperature settings that control the temperature.
- They offer a money-back guarantee valid for 90 days after purchase.
Cons:
- It can be loud when in operation.
- The lid can become stuck over time. û It is not available in all countries.
Chantal – E-kettle
Product description:
Brushed stainless steel 52oz water capacity (approximately 1.4 Liter), electric kettle with automatic shut off, and boil-dry protection.
Pros:
- It is easy to use with a water level indicator.
- Available in a variety of colors.
- The on and off button is easy to use.
- It can shut-off automatically and can also boil water easily.
- Ergonomic handle – helpful for seniors or disabled persons.
- An indicator light that illuminates when the kettle is in use.
Cons:
- There is plastic inside the kettle that can make it unsafe to use.
- Some parts of the kettle can become very hot.
- Not available in all countries.
- Double the weight of a standard kettle.
Dash Chef Series – Illusion Mirrored Kettle
Product description:
Elegantly designed 1500W electric kettle with a 1.7 Liter capacity. Ability to a rapid boil and has Boil-dry safety features. It also has a cool-touch handle on a cordless base.
Pros:
- It has an LED light that is kept on during the boiling process.
- It is small in size, making it a great gift for elders.
- 1-year manufacturer warranty
- Extras such as non-slip feet, recipe book, etc.
Cons:
- It can be hard to find this kettle to purchase.
OXO BREW – Cordless Glass Electric Kettle
Product description:
Electric cordless glass kettle with a 1.75 Liter capacity. This kettle has an auto-shutoff feature and a stay-cool handle. It includes LED power lights when the kettle is kept on.
Pros:
- It has a 90-degree lid making it easy to fill.
- It features an insulated bottom.
- Elders can use this product without a lot of difficulties.
- It can boil water faster than a microwave.
- BPA free product.
Cons:
- Twice the weight of other standard kettles.
Secura – Original Electric Water Kettle
Product description:
A stainless-steel electric water kettle with an easy to use lid.
Pros:
- The size is best recommended for seniors.
- It is available in a variety of bright colors.
Cons:
- You may notice that limescale marks the finish.
It wouldn’t be the best choice, but this product is still considered affordable, attractive, and the capability to be used in the kitchen for many purposes.
Final Verdict
Kettles that are either electric corded or cordless provide a fast and easy way to boil water without having to use the stove or wait a long time. It is best to research what type of kettle you want to get to make sure that it is suitable and that it’s going to last the test of time. Reading customer reviews is a good way to gauge how happy you will be with the purchase. Good luck!
