Category Archives: Daily Living

Find daily living aids and strategies that foster independence in essential self-care activities like dressing, grooming, hygiene, and managing routines in daily life.

Celebrating Disability Independence Day: Tools That Support Freedom

July 17, 2025Assistive Technology, Daily Living, Independent Livingassistive technology professionals (ATPs), assistive technology tools, occupational therapy (OT) tools, product spotlight, therapist resourcesAllyson Locke, M.S., OTR/L

July 26th marks National Disability Independence Day, a powerful reminder of the significance of inclusion, accessibility, and autonomy for individuals with disabilities. This day commemorates the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990—a landmark civil rights law that prohibits discrimination and promotes equal opportunity in all areas of public life. As therapists, educators, and caregivers, we play a vital role in helping to support independence for individuals with diverse needs through adaptive tools, assistive technologies, and evidence-based practices.

At Therapro, we are proud to offer a range of therapeutic products that promote independence in daily activities. Whether supporting communication, self-care, or motor skill development, these tools empower individuals to participate more fully in their environments.

Here are a few standout resources to consider:

The Functionalhand
Created by an occupational therapist and physical therapist duo, The Functionalhand is a dynamic assistive grasping aid that enables individuals with limited hand function to independently hold tools, utensils, or toys. Its flexible yet secure design allows users to insert a wide range of objects without needing a tight grip, making it ideal for daily living tasks, therapy activities, and leisure.

EazyHold® Universal Cuffs
EazyHold cuffs are soft silicone adaptive aids that gently and securely fasten around the hand to hold items such as toothbrushes, pencils, or spoons. Available in various sizes, they’re especially useful for individuals with weak grip, limb differences, or developmental delays, promoting functional independence in self-care, feeding, and learning tasks.

Used separately, both The Functionalhand and EazyHolds empower users by reducing physical barriers to participation—but when used together, they create a highly supportive and adaptive system for grasping. The Functionalhand supports the arches of the hand and positions tools in a precise, functional orientation for use, even when the user has limited intrinsic hand strength. EazyHold, on the other hand, secures the object to the hand when grip is absent or cannot be sustained. For example, a user painting with a brush may use the Functionalhand to stabilize and position the brush correctly, while the EazyHold cuff wraps over the hand and brush to prevent it from slipping or falling. This combination enables active participation in tasks that would otherwise be inaccessible—an essential approach when working to support independence for individuals with varying physical capabilities.

Adapted Utensils for Independent Eating
Feeding independence is essential for dignity and participation at mealtimes. Tools such as the Rocker Knife allow individuals with limited strength or use of only one hand to safely and effectively cut food with a simple rocking motion. KEatlery™ Weighted Dinnerware are designed to provide added stability and control for users with tremors or unsteady hands. Meanwhile, Big-Grip Cutlery features wide, cushioned handles that are easier to grasp, making them ideal for individuals with arthritis, poor fine motor control, or low muscle tone. These utensils promote confidence, reduce dependence, and foster greater inclusion at mealtime.

Control USB
As digital access becomes increasingly essential for education, employment, and social connection, tools like the Control USB are critical for ensuring accessibility. This switch interface allows individuals with physical disabilities to control household electronics directly from their computer. With plug-and-play ease, it is ideal for users with limited mobility or those using alternative access methods. Incorporating this device into therapy or home use supports digital literacy and empowers users to participate more fully in today’s tech-driven world.

TimeCue
Time management can be a significant barrier to independence. The TimeCue is a mid-tech assistive technology tool that offers simple, one-step auditory cues to help individuals transition between tasks independently—ideal for classrooms, therapy sessions, and home routines.

These products are just a few examples of how the right tools can support independence for individuals across a variety of functional domains. Therapists and families can find even more resources in our growing Assistive Technology category, which includes communication aids, visual supports, and adaptive devices.

As we celebrate Disability Independence Day, let’s reflect on the progress made and renew our commitment to creating inclusive, empowering environments. Visit the Therablog to explore more ideas, tips, and tools that help individuals of all abilities thrive.

The OT’s Role in Promoting Healthy Lifestyles

April 16, 2025Daily Living, Sensory Regulation, Therapist Resourcesadaptive utensils, movement breaks, occupational therapy (OT) tools, product spotlight, self-care, self-regulation, sensory strategies, social participationAllyson Locke, M.S., OTR/L

Occupational therapy (OT) plays a vital role in promoting a healthy lifestyle by supporting physical, mental, and emotional well-being. From physical activity and sensory regulation to healthy eating habits and stress management, OTs empower individuals to build routines that enhance their overall health.

This Occupational Therapy Month, let’s explore key strategies OTs use to promote healthy lifestyles and share resources to support therapists in their work.

1. Promoting Healthy Lifestyles with Physical Activity & Movement 🚶‍♂️💪

Regular movement is essential for strength, coordination, balance, and overall well-being. Occupational therapists encourage fun, engaging activities that promote motor skills and physical fitness in both children and adults.

Therapro’s Top Picks for Movement & Mobility:

🔹 Wobble Chairs & Stability Discs – Great for improving core strength and active sitting in classrooms and therapy sessions.
🔹 Balance Boards & Stepping Stones – Help with coordination, balance, and motor planning while keeping movement engaging.
🔹 Therapy Balls – Ideal for vestibular input and postural control exercises.
🔹Resistance Bands – Fun ways to develop upper body strength, endurance, and proprioceptive input.

🔹 Browse more movement tools here: Therapro’s Move-To-Learn Collection

💡 Therapist Tip: Incorporate movement breaks throughout the day to help children and adults maintain focus, regulate energy levels, and reduce stress.

Two Yellow Balance Pods used by OT’s in Promoting Healthy Lifestyles — Balance Pods

Kore Kids Wobble Chair used by OT’s in Promoting Healthy Lifestyles — Balance Pods

2. Promoting Healthy Lifestyles with Sensory Regulation & Mindfulness 🧘‍♀️

Managing sensory input and practicing mindfulness are essential for reducing stress and supporting mental well-being. OTs use sensory-friendly activities to help individuals stay calm, focused, and self-regulated throughout the day.

Therapro’s Top Picks for Sensory Support:

🔹 Fidget Tools – Support focus and self-regulation with tools like Therapro’s Fidget Kit and Koosh Ball Fidgets.
🔹 Weighted Products – Deep pressure input from Weighted Blankets, Compression Vests, and Shoulder Wraps can provide a calming effect.
🔹 Chews & Oral Motor Tools – Items like Chewable Jewelry and Bite-N-Chew Tips help with oral sensory needs and self-soothing.
🔹 Sensory Seating – Products like the Disc ‘O’ Sit Cushion promote active sitting while offering subtle movement input.
🔹 Therapeutic Brushes & Tactile Sensory Items – The Wilbarger Therapressure Brush supports sensory defensiveness, while Cuddle Balls provide rich tactile input.

🔹 Explore more sensory tools here: Therapro’s Sensory Collection

💡 Therapist Tip: Create a sensory toolkit for home, school, or therapy sessions, including fidgets, weighted tools, and calming visuals to support self-regulation throughout the day.

Chewelry Necklace/Bracelet a tool OT's use in Promoting Healthy Lifestyles — Chewelry

3. Promoting Healthy Lifestyles with Healthy Eating Habits & Self-Care 🍎🥗

Nutrition and self-care routines are essential parts of a balanced lifestyle. OTs help individuals with feeding challenges, adaptive utensils, and personal care skills to promote independence in daily routines.

Therapro’s Top Picks for Mealtime & Self-Care:

🔹 Adaptive Utensils & Cups – Products like the TheraBear Drinking Cup and Maroon Spoons support individuals with oral motor and self-feeding challenges.
🔹 Plate Guards & Non-Slip Placemats – Tools such as the Inner Lip Plate and Dycem Mats help prevent spills and encourage independent eating.
🔹 Visual Schedules & Timers – Supports like the Time Timer can help establish structured mealtime and self-care routines.
🔹 Dressing & Grooming Aids – Items like Button Hooks and Zipper Pulls assist with developing dressing independence.
🔹 Oral Motor Tools – Whistles, straws, and chew tools aid in strengthening oral muscles for feeding and speech development.

🔹 Explore more daily living tools here: Therapro’s Daily Living Collection

💡 Therapist Tip: Encourage families to set up predictable daily routines using visual schedules, timers, and adaptive tools to promote independence and reduce stress.

4. Promoting Healthy Lifestyles with Social Participation & Mental Health 🤝💬

A healthy lifestyle includes building meaningful relationships, developing social-emotional skills, and managing emotions effectively. OTs support clients in fostering social communication, emotional regulation, and self-awareness to promote overall well-being.

Therapro’s Top Picks for Social-Emotional Learning (SEL):

🔹Social Awareness & Conversation Tools – Games like Let’s Talk Cubes and Webber® Photo Cards – What Are They Thinking? encourage turn-taking, perspective-taking, and conversation-building.
🔹 Coping & Self-Regulation Tools – The Big Feelings Pineapple and My Spark Cards Tool Box teach essential strategies for stress management and emotional resilience.

🔹 Explore more SEL resources here: Therapro’s Social-Emotional Learning Collection

💡 Therapist Tip: Use visual supports, role-playing, and structured social games to reinforce emotional regulation, problem-solving, and positive interactions in therapy sessions.

Join the Conversation! 🗣

💡 What are your favorite OT strategies for promoting healthy lifestyles? Tag @Therapro in your social media posts!

Let’s work together to empower individuals to move, learn, and live well every day!

Promoting Independence Through Assistive Technology

July 30, 2024Assistive Technology, Daily Living, Therapist Resourcesadaptive utensils, assistive technology professionals (ATPs), functional skills, occupational therapy (OT) toolsGuest Blogger

National Disability Independence Day is celebrated annually on July 26, commemorating the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990. This landmark legislation has been instrumental in protecting the rights of individuals with disabilities, promoting their independence, and ensuring equal opportunities. At Therapro, we honor this historic event and recognize the importance of assistive technology in promoting independence.

The Role of Assistive Technology

Assistive technology plays a crucial role in empowering individuals with disabilities, helping them perform everyday tasks more easily and efficiently. Whether it’s through enhancing mobility, improving communication, or providing support for daily activities, these tools are vital in promoting self-reliance and independence. At Therapro, we understand the transformative power of assistive technology and are dedicated to offering a wide range of products designed to meet diverse needs.

Key Products Promoting Independence

As we celebrate National Disabilities Independence Day, we are proud to highlight several key products that promote independence:

Functionalhand: This innovative device provides a secure grip for individuals with limited hand function, allowing them to hold and manipulate objects with ease.
Eazyholds: These silicone grips attach to various utensils and tools, making it easier for individuals with limited hand strength to hold and use them.
Reachers: Designed to help individuals access items that are out of reach, reachers are invaluable for enhancing independence in daily tasks.
Dycem: This non-slip material provides stability and support, making it easier to handle objects and perform activities without slipping.
Adapted Utensils and Dishes: These specially designed utensils and dishes help individuals with limited dexterity eat more independently.
Tools for Low Vision: Products like Highlighter Strips and Reading Guide Strips are essential for individuals with low vision, helping them read and navigate their environment more effectively.

Expanding Our Assistive Technology Offerings

Recognizing the importance of assistive technology, Therapro has been actively expanding our product selection in this category. Over the past several years, we have introduced a variety of new tools and resources to better serve the needs of our customers. Our comprehensive assistive technology catalog is a testament to our ongoing efforts to provide high-quality products that promote independence and improve quality of life.

As we celebrate National Disability Independence Day, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities through innovative assistive technology. At Therapro, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to live independently and with dignity. We are proud to offer a wide range of products that empower individuals to achieve greater autonomy and enrich their lives.

Explore our assistive technology catalog today and discover how Therapro can help you or your loved ones achieve greater independence. Together, we can continue to make a difference and promote a more inclusive world for all.