I am the head of the audiovisual library at the University of Maryland
College Park. My father has Parkinsons syndrome and successfully subscribed to
this list in December. He has promised to send in his personal story as
soon as he can slow down enough to do so!
In any event, I receive many catalogs... I have one from adaptAbility;
Products for Independent Living Inc. that contains many items that could be
of interest to this list. They have doorknob adapters: "Leveron door knob
adapters are great for people with limited hand strength or dexterity.
Install in seconds to convert most door knobs to lever handles. Meet code
requirements for interior and exterior use. Set includes two adapters,
wrench and instructions." $26.19/set, part #17000. (Spring 1993 catalog)
They have foam push-on grips to make it easier to hold pens, pencils, small
paint brushes, etc. for $7.45/pack of 25. They have rolling scissors;
theromplastic tape and tubing that can be added to tools to improve
gripping surface which "custom molds to natural shape of user's hand." They
also have foam tubing to build up the diameter of cutlery to make things
easier to grasp. The catalog is simply filled with useful aids and devices
including large handle tableware and cooking utensils, plates, etc. There
is a large selection of exercise equipment, and therapy aids too. The address
and phone number is below:
adaptAbility 1-800-243-9232
P.O. Box 515
Colchester, CT 06415-0515
Another catalog that may have *some* useful devices is:
Dr. Leonard's Health Care Catalog 1-716-768-0010
74-20th Street
Brooklyn, NY 11232-1100
I hope that this information will be useful to readers of the list. I add
my name to those who have already praised the list and its developer; you
are providing an excellent service to many grateful people.
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Allan C. Rough | Internet: [log in to unmask]
Head, Nonprint Media Services |===================================
4210 V. Hornbake Library | Direct Phone: (301) 405-9225
University of Maryland College Park | Department Phone: (301) 405-9236
College Park, MD 20742-7011 | FAX: (301) 314-9419
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