Recently, I had the pleasure of trying out a product that promises to make eating easier for seniors, the elderly, and those suffering from conditions that affect the hands and arms.

The product is none other than the Meal Lifter, a device that lifts your plate off the table and could potentially restore independence during meals.

How the Meal Lifter Works

The Meal Lifter is a simple yet ingenious device designed to lift your plate off the table surface by four and a quarter inches.

This elevation changes the dynamics of the eating position. Instead of having to lift your elbow off the table or bring your head to the fork, you can now keep your elbow on the table and simply move your hand from the plate to your mouth.

It’s a subtle change that makes a world of difference.

However, to get the most out of the Meal Lifter, it’s important that you use a nine-inch plate with a bit of depth to ensure stability.

Benefits of Using the Meal Lifter

There are multiple benefits to the Meal Lifter.

The primary benefit is that it provides more stability and less movement, making the eating process easier and more comfortable.

By keeping your elbow on the table, you can lock it into place, minimizing the chances of spills and accidents.

Plus, the less distance your hand has to travel, the less strain there is on your arm, making it an excellent aid for individuals with conditions like Parkinson’s or strokes.

Additional Observations and Recommendations

The Meal Lifter is made of plastic, which makes it easy to clean. Simply wipe it down after each use and you’re good to go.

I recommend placing the Meal Lifter on a placemat for additional stability, especially if you have a slick table surface. This will prevent the device from moving around while you’re eating.

A matching placemat is available on the MealLifter.com website.

RELATED: Helpful Plates for Seniors

Conclusion

The Meal Lifter is a simple yet effective tool that has the potential to make mealtime less of a chore and more of a pleasure for seniors and those with conditions that affect their hands and arms.

Remember, small changes can make a big difference in the lives of many older adults. The Meal Lifter is the perfect example of that.