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Seniors are a select group of people that need extra care. Therefore, they usually have a line of products specifically made for them. One of these is the microwave. In case you are looking for the perfect microwave for a senior member of your family, The Ponfish’s Post would be a good starting point.
In this article, we will look at some of the questions people frequently ask about senior microwaves. I hope that these will help you settle on the best.
Senior microwaves faqs
What makes a microwave suitable for seniors?
You have to understand that not all microwaves suit seniors. Here are some of the distinct features that you have to look out for:
i) Easy controls
Having a full panel with many controls and buttons does not suit seniors. These microwaves have easy controls and switches for smoother operation. Most new models incorporate several features and advanced technology, which is quite pleasing but not conducive for seniors. You will find a knob control dial that turns quickly.
ii) A large and bold display
Most elders are visually challenged. Therefore, microwaves meant for seniors have a large and bold display to help them read the timer settings for smooth operation. Some of them also have bold printing on a white surface for more natural visibility.
iii) Handle
Seniors need to insert and remove food from the microwave, and therefore, the handle matters. Their microwaves have a pull handle, which is easy to open and does not need to much force. On the other hand, push handles are quite sophisticated and require too much force that seniors with underlying conditions cannot yield.
iv) Auto shut off
It is easy for seniors to overcook and burn their foods since some of them are usually less alert. Therefore, their microwaves have an auto shut off feature which senses when the food is cooked and shuts off automatically.
v) Loud clicking sound
Seniors are usually less alert. Hearing problems also come with age. Therefore, their microwaves have a loud clicking sound to notify them when the food is already cooked. This is necessary, especially for the forgetful ones.
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Where can I buy good quality senior microwaves?
Senior microwaves are everywhere. Some of the most common sites include Amazon and Shopify. You can also choose to avoid the online approach and walk into reputable stores. This second approach allows you to assess and ascertain whether the microwave is meant for seniors.You can also make a direct order with the brand. If you are lucky enough, the brand will cover the shipping costs. However, make sure that you specify that you need a senior microwave.
What should I consider before getting a senior microwave?
There are several brands offering these microwaves. You have to exercise care in your purchase. Here are some of the things that you need to look out for:
i) Simple design
Ensure that the microwave you settle on comes devoid of complicated features that seniors may find challenging. Simple buttons and an excellent turning knob would be enough.
ii) Timer
The best microwave for seniors should have a timer to help monitor the heating of different foods. Remember, certain foods have heating requirements and duration of cooking that must be adhered to. A timer also makes cooking easy since most seniors cannot easily time themselves. Once the duration has elapsed, the microwave will either turn itself on or inform the user through a loud clicking sound.
iii) Durability
Durability is a factor that you should always look out for. The way your microwave is built will influence how long it lasts. If possible, settle on one made of stainless steel in both its interior and exterior. Stainless steel also keeps your microwave rust-free, which is one of the biggest destroyers of devices.
iv) Portability
Seniors cannot easily move the microwave around due to reduced strength. Make sure that you settle on a lighter model with a comfortable grip for more effortless adjustment or movement. The microwave should also be compact to occupy less space. Most seniors have dementia, and having things lying around predisposes them to accidents that can be easily avoided.
v) Power consumption
Microwaves heat food, and as a result, some of them consume a lot of power. The best microwave for seniors should have an eco-mode for power conservation.
Are senior microwaves different from the normal ones?
Microwaves for seniors and the normal ones have the same functionality. They only differ in features. Senior microwaves tend to be more straightforward and basic as compared to their counterparts. You are likely going to get a fine turning knob and an easy to pull handle. They lack the sophistication seen in the regular microwaves. Most seniors suffer from several conditions that may affect their vision, hearing, or movement.
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Why do seniors need a microwave?
A microwave is a convenient means of food preparation, especially if the senior lives alone. Most of them have caregivers who are only available during the day. Microwaves are simpler to use compared to electric stoves. They do not require much time and effort since they come with a timer and an auto shut-off function. Most elders also have problems with their joints and cannot, therefore, sustain longer cooking hours.
Elders have reduced strength and cannot handle huge heating pans and pots, whereas food preparation in a microwave only requires basic settings. It is also a safe way of food preparation, which eliminates the risk of burns or accidents. Most utensils are microwave friendly, which is a good thing. Older adults won’t regularly wash loads of dishes., which can be cumbersome and annoying.
Lastly, most of these microwaves have menu options to help in cooking different types of food. All and elder needs to do is to place the plate of food into the microwave and wait.
Conclusion
Microwaves meant for seniors have distinct features that make them conducive for meal preparation. I hope that this senior microwaves faqs article has answered some of the questions you had. In case you need more information about these machines.
Key Reference
1.Tips for Seniors | FDA. Link
2.Food Safety for Older Adults – FDA. Link
