Recommended caregiving gear

Simple, practical things that came up in our videos, grouped by episode. You don't need all of it. Start with what fits your parent's home and routine.

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Video 1 · 10 Signs Mom or Dad Needs More Help at Home

For the signs you might spot around medications, missed dates, falls, and loneliness.

Weekly AM/PM pill organizer: a clearly labeled box makes missed doses easy to see
Automatic pill dispenser (Hero): for parents who need reminders and locked doses
Automatic pill dispenser (MedMinder): another option with alerts to family
Large-print wall calendar: one place for appointments and visits
Digital day clock: shows the day and date in big, clear letters
Medical alert with fall detection (Bay Alarm Medical): talk with their doctor about fall risk first
Medical alert (Medical Guardian): another well-known option to compare
Easy-to-use phones (Lively): simple phones and alert devices for staying in touch

Video 2 · The Four-Room Home Safety Walk

Small purchases that make a real difference, room by room.

Step-edge safety tape: entry and stairs: makes each step easy to see
Motion-sensor night lights: hallways, bathroom, and bedroom
Non-slip tub strips: bathroom
Grab bars: bathroom; install into studs or have a pro do it
Raised toilet seat with handles: bathroom
Shower chairs: bathroom
Bed rails and assist handles: bedroom: steadier getting in and out of bed
Touch lamp for the bedside: bedroom: no fumbling for a switch at night
Reacher/grabber: kitchen: reach high or low shelves without climbing
Step stool with a handle: kitchen: for occasional use only; move daily items within reach

Video 3 · When a Parent Won't Accept Help

This one is about the conversation, not the gear. If a regular check-in helps everyone feel better, a simple phone or alert device can be a gentle middle step.

Easy-to-use phones (Lively): for check-in calls a couple of times a week
Medical alert systems (Bay Alarm Medical): peace of mind without anyone moving in

Video 4 · How to Talk to Your Parent About Driving

Solving the ride problem is mostly about planning. These help keep the week on track.

Large-print family planner calendar: map out every weekly trip and who's driving
Easy-to-use phones (Lively): so calling for a ride is simple

Video 5 · Signs of Caregiver Burnout

Gear for you, the caregiver.

Caregiver notebook/organizer: write every task down so it's easier to share
Weekly AM/PM pill organizer: fill it once a week, or hand off this job to someone else
Automatic pill dispenser (Hero): one less thing to manage by hand

Practical education only, not medical advice. For mobility aids, fall risk, and medications, check with their doctor or a physical or occupational therapist.