PRODUCT STAR RATING (out of 5 stars):
5 out of 5 stars – TREMOR and GRIPPPING PROBLEMS
5 out of 5 stars – DEMENTIA – CONTRASTING COLOUR
"I have split the star rating because, in my dad's and my hands, the kettle was brilliant and solved all of his problems, even as a single colour. The single colour may not work, as you have seen, for those living with dementia.
I would suggest that those, like me, living with dementia, purchase the contrasting-coloured kettle. This will work much better for you."
For my type of dementia, it is essential to know that some of my symptoms, such as depth perception, colour distinction, and tremors in both hands, make handling hot water a dangerous challenge.
Would the Easy Pour kettle help me?
Putting the kettle into its stand was easy enough. I struggled a little because the kettle and stand are black. With both depth perception and colour distinction issues, it proved a bit of a challenge, but I managed to follow the easy-to-follow instructions. My dad, who has arthritis in his hands and fingers, also gave the kettle a trial run to see if it would help him. And the challenge I had putting the kettle in the stand was not a problem for him at all.
The kettle is very light, empty, and easy to handle for both my dad, who has gripping problems, and me.
Filling the kettle with cold water can be done by pouring from a jug (purchase this separately) or by taking the kettle to the tap.
Again, a slight challenge for me, in that the button to open the lid is the same colour as the kettle, in my case, black. So, someone showed me where this button was, as I couldn't see it. Once I knew, it was straightforward to fill the kettle. I used the jug method; my dad took the kettle to the tap without issue.
The kettle has a clear window that shows when it is half complete. Clear enough to see for me.
The kettle remains light enough and easy to grip when full.
Switching on the kettle proved a challenge again for me, as the switch is the same colour as the kettle, black. Once I identified the on/off switch, it was easy enough to do. My dad had no issue here again.
Once the kettle reaches the boiling point, it switches itself off. The kettle is quieter than some kettles I have had in the past.
The kettle comes with a nonslip pad (sold separately) that you can place under the kettle. I tried it with and without the nonslip pad. I found there was no difference on my kitchen worktop, and neither did my dad. The nonslip pad, however, came in handy for placing the cup when pouring hot water; otherwise, it becomes a guessing game to see if the cup is in the correct position. My dad agreed with this.
I use a beaker with a slide, and my dad uses a mug. Based on the kettle's size, you realistically get two mugs of water. Pouring the water is effortless; you simply tilt the kettle toward the cup, mug, or, in my case, beaker and pour in hot water. The handle for tilting the kettle is placed so your hand is away from the steam.
The kettle is clever and does a great job. Easy to use, with no to minimal risk of burns. If you have tremors or a gripping problem, this kettle is for you!
I would like to state at this point that the designers have already identified the problems I struggled with and have manufactured kettles with contrasting colours. This product will improve the lives of those living with dementia. The contrasting colours make it much easier to use and eliminate many of the challenges I faced with the single-colour option.
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