Assistive Technology for Staying Hydrated
Even though at the time of writing this we have had a bit of a reprieve, it’s been a very hot and very humid summer. I thought I would take this opportunity to talk about different tools and strategies that are available to help keep hydration in the forefront of your mind and liquids accessible.
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Giraffe Water Bottle Company
For the wheelchair user that also may need a hands-free solution, these water bottles are great. The straws come in different lengths and are made from flexible tubing that stays put. There’s also a valve in the straw that’s designed to help prevent choking or aspiration for those with trouble swallowing. There is also a wide variety of cupholder mounting solutions! This allows you to easily find the ideal location. These water bottles are available in our tryout centers to see. Prices start at $42. Go to the Giraffe Bottle Drinking Solutions website to learn about the different systems they offer.
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Image Description: In the background, someone is sitting in their wheelchair. The push handle is in the foreground. Attached to the metal tubing is a water bottle in a holder. Coming out of the water bottle is a straw made from modular hose. It extends from the water bottle to the users mouth, all hands free.
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Hidrate Spark TAP Smart Water Bottle
Do you have trouble remembering to drink throughout the course of the day? Consider a Smart Water Bottle to remind you when it’s time to drink! With the Hidrate Spark TAP water bottle you can set the number of ounces you would like to drink throughout the day. Every time you finish the bottle, tap the NFC sensor on the bottle to your phone to track your intake! The water bottle will notify you to drink hourly by illuminating the water bottle and sending a notification to your phone. They are available in 5 colors, and are priced at $29.99 on Amazon.
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Image Description: A black water bottle with a green light at the bottom. There is also an NFC tag on the bottom, in line with the drinking spout.
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Extra tip: Liquid IV Hydration Packets
Lastly, if you just struggle to stay hydrated no matter how much you drink, try something like Liquid IV hydration packets. These were recommended to me by my doctor and I’ve been drinking them on the hottest days. They come in a wide variety of flavors and really do help you stay hydrated more adequately in my own experience. They come in an easy to open packet and you just mix them into water. Their website claims that you get twice as much hydration than you do from drinking water alone.
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Image Description: woman pouring flavor packet into glass of water
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The contents of this newsletter were submitted by Ben Wimett; A.T Consultant serving Rutland, Windsor, Windham, Bennington, and Addison Counties.
Contact the Vermont Assistive Technology Program by calling 1-800-750-6355 or by emailing dail.atinfo@vermont.gov. For more information visit our website (www.atp.vermont.gov). And if there is a topic that you'd like to see covered, please feel free to let us know!
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