As we age, daily tasks like preparing and eating meals can become increasingly difficult.
Elderly individuals and those suffering from arthritis may struggle with handling heavy dinnerware during mealtime.
The good news is that there are fantastic options available in the market for lightweight plates catering to the needs of the elderly and people with arthritis.
Some of the best options include:
- Spillproof scoop plates
- Suction scoop plates
- High sided plates
- Lipped plates
These plates boast features such as easy-grip designs, durable materials, and being easy to handle, ensuring mealtime remains a joyful and comfortable experience.
So let's delve further into what you need to know about the best lightweight plates for the elderly and those with arthritis.
5 Best Lightweight Plates for the Elderly and Arthritis: Overview
- Best Overall: Providence Spillproof Scoop Plate
- Best Non-Slip: Maddak SP Ableware Scooper Plate
- Best for Motor Control: Sammons Preston Hi-Lo Scoop Plate
- Best Lipped Plate: SP Ableware Inner-Lip Plate
- Bonus - High-Side Plate Guard: North Coast Medical Plastic Plate Guard
5 Best Lightweight Plates for Elderly and Arthritis Reviews
Take a look at our top 5 picks and their features below.
1. Best Overall: Providence Spillproof Scoop Plate
Buy Providence Spillproof Scoop Plate on Amazon.
With its thoughtful design and user-friendly features, the Providence Spillproof Scoop Plate is the best lightweight plate for the elderly and those with arthritis.
This 9-inch lightweight plate is made from durable polypropylene material, making it easy to handle for individuals with limited hand strength.
The ergonomic plate design includes a curved wall, which assists in guiding food onto utensils, reducing the risk of spills.
Best Features
- Lightweight and durable polypropylene material
- 9-inch diameter for accommodating various meal sizes
- Ergonomic design with a curved wall to guide food onto utensils
- Helpful for individuals with limited hand strength and mobility
Pros:
- Minimizes spills and makes mealtime more manageable
- Promotes independent eating
- Easy to clean, as it is dishwasher safe
Cons:
- May not be suitable for individuals with severe hand tremors
- Only available in a single size and color option
2. Best Non-Slip: Maddak SP Ableware Scooper Plate
Buy Maddak SP Ableware Scooper Plate on Amazon.
The Maddak SP Ableware Scooper Plate has a suction cup base that securely adheres to the table, making it non-slip and ideal for users with limited dexterity or strength.
Made with heat-resistant molded plastic, the plate is both durable and safe for everyday use.
The scooper plate is uniquely designed with a high rim and an inner curve to make pushing or scooping food onto a spoon or fork much easier, helping users maintain independence during mealtimes.
Best Features
- Suction cup base for non-slip stability
- Heat-resistant molded plastic construction
- High rim and inner curve for easier scooping
Pros:
- Non-slip design reduces spills and accidents
- Helps promote independent eating for users with limited mobility
- Lightweight and easy to clean
Cons:
- Suction may lose strength over time
- May not work as effectively on all surface types
3. Best for Motor Control: Sammons Preston Hi-Lo Scoop Plate
Buy Sammons Preston Hi-Lo Scoop Plate on Amazon.
The Sammons Preston Hi-Lo Scoop Plate is the go-to option for individuals struggling with motor control issues, especially those with arthritis.
Designed to make eating easier, this 9-inch scooped dish features a wall that aids in guiding food onto utensils, ultimately preventing messes and spills.
The plate's low entry wall of ½ inch gradually increases to 1-1/2 inches at the back, providing accessibility while containing food.
Best Features
- 9-inch scooped dish with a practical wall design
- Non-slip base for added stability during use
- Suitable for children, elderly, and disabled individuals
- Designed to aid motor control issues and make eating easier
Pros:
- Helps guide food onto utensils, reducing spills and messes
- Durable, easy-to-clean material
- Can be used by a wide range of individuals
Cons:
- Slightly higher price point compared to standard plates
- May not be suitable for all table settings
4. Best Lipped Plate: SP Ableware Inner-Lip Plate
Buy SP Ableware Inner-Lip Plate on Amazon.
The SP Ableware Inner-Lip Plate is designed specifically to assist people with limited muscle control, such as young children or the elderly.
These plates are constructed with a raised inner lip to prevent food spillage.
The high wall feature allows users to easily push food onto utensils, making it significantly easier to eat.
Best Features
- Inner lip prevents food from being swept off the side
- The high wall feature prevents spillage
- Sandstone color provides a neutral and appealing appearance
- Durable plastic construction ensures longevity
Pros:
- Suitable for various users, including young children, elderly, and individuals with disabilities
- Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning
- Encourages independence during mealtime
- Available in 3 color options
Cons:
- May not accommodate very large servings
5. Bonus - High-Side Plate Guard: North Coast Medical Plastic Plate Guard
Buy North Coast Medical Plastic Plate Guard on Amazon.
If you're looking for an option that you can easily attach or remove to your plates, the North Coast Medical Plastic Plate Guard is a great option.
It features a high-sided design, which is great for users with shaky hands, weakness, or uncoordinated movement to scoop food without spillage easily.
The plastic plate guard is microwave and top-rack dishwasher-safe, making it a convenient choice for daily use.
Best Features
- High-sided design to prevent food from spilling off the plate
- Made from lightweight and durable plastic material
- Compatible with plates up to 10.75 inches in diameter
- Microwave and top-rack dishwasher safe
- 1.25-inch high guard for added support
Pros:
- Supports independent eating
- Reduces spills and messes in the dining area
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Suitable for users with arthritis or limited hand coordination
Cons:
- Only fits plates with a diameter of up to 10.75 inches
- May not be suitable for all dishware styles
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Lightweight Plate Buyer’s Guide
Lightweight plates for the elderly and arthritis are specifically designed dinnerware to make eating and handling food easier for those who have trouble using regular plates.
They are often made from materials like durable PP plates.
These materials feature non-slip bottoms, scoop plates, and easy-to-hold rims that significantly enhance the dining experience for seniors and individuals with arthritis.
Some of the primary benefits of lightweight plates for the elderly include:
- Ease of use: Their lightweight nature makes it easier for seniors and people with arthritis to lift and handle them.
- User-friendly design: They often have features such as raised edges or suction cups to prevent spills and accidents.
- Dishwasher & microwave safe: Most lightweight plates are designed to be safe for use in dishwashers and microwaves, making cleaning and reheating food a breeze.
Related Article: What Is The Difference Between Dishwasher Safe And Dishwasher Proof?
Considerations
When selecting the perfect set of lightweight plates for the elderly and arthritis, consider the following factors:
Material
Choose lightweight materials such as PP plates that are known to be durable, BPA-free, and non-toxic.
Design
Look for plates with special features, such as a non-slip bottom, raised edges, or a lip for easy holding.
Price
Many lightweight plates are available in various price ranges, so ensure you're considering options within your budget.
Ease of cleaning
Opt for plates that can be cleaned easily, either by hand or in a dishwasher.
Size
Consider the plate's diameter to ensure it will carry enough food for the user but still remain easy to handle.
Continue Reading: What Are The Best Drinking Glasses For Arthritic Hands?
Putting it All Together
Now that you have learned about the best lightweight plates for the elderly and those with arthritis, it's time to make an informed decision for yourself or a loved one.
Remember to consider the needs and preferences of the elderly individual or person with arthritis when selecting a lightweight plate.
Opt for a design that not only aids in eating but brings joy and independence during mealtime.
Happy mealtimes are essential for maintaining both physical and emotional health, so make sure to choose the perfect plate that supports those needs.
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