Lightweight Dinnerware Sets: Easy Handling For Arthritic Hands

Arthritis can make the simple act of eating a painful and challenging task. Fortunately, adaptive dinnerware can help improve the dining experience for those with arthritis. Lightweight dinnerware sets are designed to be functional, durable, and elegant, while also being practical and easy to clean.

Lightweight dinnerware is typically made from materials such as porcelain, glass, stoneware, or melamine, and often feature chip-resistant designs. Some sets also come with built-in modifications to assist those with arthritis, such as raised edges, non-slip bottoms, and suction bases to prevent slipping and spilling.

Adaptive dinnerware provides an innovative solution to improve the dining experience and make mealtimes enjoyable again for those living with arthritis.

Lightweight dinnerware is available in porcelain, glass, stoneware, and melamine

Lightweight dinnerware is available in a variety of materials, including porcelain, glass, stoneware, and melamine. Each material has its own unique qualities, features, and price points. Here are some advantages of choosing lightweight dinnerware:

Porcelain

Porcelain dinnerware is known for its elegance and durability. It is made from fine-particle clay that is fired at high temperatures, making it nonporous and resistant to chipping and staining. Porcelain is often used for formal dining occasions but can also be used for everyday meals to add a touch of elegance. It is generally safe to use in the dishwasher, microwave, and oven, making it a convenient choice.

Glass

Glass dinnerware, such as vitrified glass, is known for its durability and nonporous properties. It is safe to use in the dishwasher and microwave and is highly resistant to breaking, even when dropped. Glass dinnerware is a good option for child-friendly establishments and outdoor settings.

Stoneware

Stoneware is a type of ceramic that is made from refined clay with added glass material for strength and durability. It has a rustic, earthy aesthetic and is often used for casual, everyday place settings. Stoneware is generally safe to use in the dishwasher, microwave, oven, and freezer, making it a versatile choice.

Melamine

Melamine dinnerware is made from a lightweight, durable, and heat-resistant plastic material. It is a popular choice for outdoor dining and child-friendly establishments as it is difficult to break, chip, or scratch. Melamine dinnerware is also affordable and available in a wide range of colors, designs, and shapes, making it a versatile option for any setting. However, it is not suitable for use in the microwave or oven as it can release harmful chemicals when subjected to high temperatures.

Look for chip-resistant, dishwasher-safe, and microwave-safe options

When shopping for chip-resistant, dishwasher-safe, and microwave-safe dinnerware, there are several key considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, opt for sets that are explicitly labelled as "microwave-safe" and "dishwasher-safe". This ensures that the dinnerware can withstand temperature changes and the mechanical action of these appliances without cracking or fading. Additionally, smooth glazes are preferable as they are less likely to retain stains and odours.

Different materials are used in the production of dinnerware, each with its own advantages:

• Porcelain is known for its elegant appearance and modern porcelain sets combine aesthetics with durability.
• Stoneware is renowned for its rustic charm and chip-resistant nature. It often has a handcrafted feel and is suitable for microwave and dishwasher use.
• Melamine dinnerware is lightweight, durable, and generally safe for the microwave, but it's important to follow manufacturer guidelines to prevent damage.
• Glass dinnerware sets exude a modern and sleek vibe. They are microwave-safe and resistant to staining but be cautious of sudden temperature changes as extreme heat or cold can cause cracking.

When choosing the right dinnerware set, consider your lifestyle, design preferences, set size, and budget. For smaller households, a compact set may suffice, while those who frequently entertain guests might prefer a larger set with matching pieces. Select a design that complements your kitchen decor and choose from a range of materials, colours, and patterns to suit your taste.

• Corelle Vitrelle 18-Piece Dinnerware Set: This set is triple-layer glass and chip-resistant, lightweight, and safe for the dishwasher, oven, and microwave. It includes dinner plates, bread plates, and soup/cereal bowls.
• Gibson Elite Soho Lounge Square Stoneware Dinnerware: This elegant 16-piece set features unique colours and textures due to traditional finishing techniques. Made from durable ceramic, it is microwave and dishwasher-safe, although the plates can get hot with prolonged heating.
• AmazonBasics 6-Piece Dinner Plate Set: This porcelain set is lightweight, durable, BPA-free, and safe for the microwave, oven, freezer, and dishwasher. The contemporary white finish and stackable design make it ideal for those seeking a clean aesthetic.
• Glasslock 11292 Assorted Oven-Safe Container Set: This 18-piece set includes glass containers and BPA-free lids that are oven, freezer, microwave, airtight, leak-proof, odour-free, and stain-proof.
• Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Container: This single plastic container is safe for the microwave, dishwasher, and freezer. It features built-in vents to allow steam escape, preventing splatters when microwaving with the lid on.

Arthritis-friendly dinnerware features built-up sides and non-slip bases

Arthritis-friendly dinnerware is designed to make mealtimes easier and more enjoyable for people with arthritis. This dinnerware often features built-up sides and non-slip bases, which can help users with limited dexterity and motor coordination to push food onto their fork or spoon. These features also help to prevent spills and reduce the risk of accidents.

Built-up sides on plates and bowls can make it easier for people with arthritis to scoop up food. High-sided or raised edges can act as a barrier, preventing food from spilling and creating a mess. This is especially helpful for individuals with limited hand coordination or fine motor skills. Some plates also have guards, which are covers or barriers that go around the edge of the plate to prevent food from falling off.

Non-slip bases on bowls and plates can keep them securely in place on the table, even if they are accidentally bumped. This is particularly helpful for individuals with shaky hands or those who have difficulty holding things steady. Suction cup bases can also prevent bowls and plates from sliding or moving during mealtime.

In addition to built-up sides and non-slip bases, arthritis-friendly dinnerware may also feature compartments or dividers to keep different foods separate. This can be beneficial for individuals with specific dietary requirements or those who have difficulty with different food textures touching. Arthritis-friendly dinnerware is also typically lightweight, making it easier for individuals with arthritis to handle.

Suction pads on bowls and plates prevent slipping and spilling

Suction pads on bowls and plates are a great way to prevent slipping and spilling. They are especially useful for people with arthritis, as they can help to reduce pain and make eating less work and more enjoyable. Suction pads are also great for parents, as they can help to avoid spills and messes during weaning.

Suction pads are usually made from silicone, which is flexible and soft. They can be attached to the bottom of a bowl or plate, allowing you to stick them to a table or high chair tray. This helps to prevent the bowl or plate from being thrown or knocked over, reducing messes and spills.

When choosing a suction bowl or plate, consider the material, intended use, ease of washing, and whether it is microwave/oven safe. For example, bamboo is more sustainable but should be avoided if you want to use the dishwasher or microwave. Plastic is sturdier, while silicone is flexible and soft. If you are using it for baby-led weaning, you may want sections to divide up different types of food.

• The Upward Baby Suction Plates & Bowls set includes a suction bowl, suction divided plate, and two silicone baby spoons. It is made from 100% food-grade silicone, BPA-free, and dishwasher-safe.
• The WeeSprout Divided Suction Plates have an extra-strong suction base and higher sides to reduce spillage. They are made from 100% BPA-free silicone and come in sets of three.
• The Green Sprouts Baby Learning Plate is made from food-grade silicone and is free from PVC, BPAs, and petroleum. It has a suction base and an easy-release tab.
• The Freedom Distributors Scoop Plate with Suction Pad is designed to overcome self-feeding problems and stick firmly to the table.

Red tableware helps those with Dementia or Alzheimer's distinguish food

People with Alzheimer's and Dementia often experience a decline in their ability to eat and drink independently. This can be due to medical problems with chewing, swallowing, or digesting food, or simply a loss of interest in food. As the disease progresses, the ability and desire to eat tends to worsen, and ensuring that someone with dementia eats a nutritious meal can become a practical and emotional issue for caregivers.

The use of red tableware can help to address this issue by providing contrast between the tableware and the food, allowing the user to more easily recognise what they are eating. This can be particularly beneficial for those with decreased motor skills, as it helps to prevent spills and can make it easier to scoop food onto utensils.

The Eatwell tableware set is an example of a product designed specifically for patients with cognitive impairments like Alzheimer's. The set features high-contrast colours, with red and yellow tableware and blue interiors, to help users distinguish food from the tableware and stimulate their appetite. The bowls have slanted basins and spoons designed to fit the natural curve of the hand, making it easier to scoop food. The cups also have features to prevent accidental spills, such as stabilised rubber bases and lids, or extended handles for added support.

In addition to red tableware, there are other adaptive tableware options available that can help improve the dining experience for people with Alzheimer's and Dementia. These include plates with built-up sides and suction bases, as well as specialised drinking cups with extra-large handles to provide multiple grip positions and prevent spills.

Frequently asked questions