Making sure seniors get enough nutrients is critical – but not always easy to achieve. Finding a good microwave is one way to help. This can provide them with an easy way to prepare food for themselves, without the risk that comes with cooking on a stovetop.
What’s more, many older adults will have used microwaves for most of their lives.
But, how do you find the best microwave for elderly family members? You’re going to want something that’s safe, easy to use and not too confusing.
That’s not as easy as it sounds. Instead, many microwaves are somewhat complicated and have many more buttons than are needed.
In this post, we’re going to look at three interesting options. These can be found online or at local stores.
Westinghouse Countertop Rotary Microwave Oven
Size: 0.6 cubic feet
Wattage: 600 watts
Model number: WCM660W
This microwave has multiple advantages for elderly people.
First, the controls are simple. There are just two dials, both of which are intuitive. The oven could even be left on the same temperature each time (top dial), leaving just the time to be adjusted. There is no display to read or buttons to work with, which makes this a very easy tool to use.
The model also makes a loud ding when cooking is completed – perfect for anyone with hearing problems.
The small size means this microwave won’t suit everyone. But, for those cooking for themselves or for two, it could be perfect.
Westinghouse does also have a 0.9 cubic feet version (900 watts) that has the same general style and advantages. You can see that one here.
Amana Light Duty Microwave Oven
Size: 0.8 cubic feet
Wattage: 1,000 watts
Model number: RMS10DS
This model is larger and more powerful than the previous example – making it relevant to more situations
The overall design is also different. In this case, there is just one setting, the timer. That timer only goes up to 6 minutes.
So then, the microwave isn’t particularly versatile. But, you may not need it to be.
This style can work very well, as there is nothing to get wrong. So, your family member can’t accidentally set the wrong power level or change a setting. Instead, they just turn a single dial.
Now, for cooking meals, the style may not be enough. In those cases, you would at least want a low, medium and high temperature setting.
But, this design is perfect if your family member will mostly be reheating food. For example, if they get some frozen dinners from Meals on Wheels or if you regularly drop in meals for them – they may just need the ability to reheat.
If so, this microwave is perfect.
Whirlpool Countertop Microwave
Size: 0.5 Cubic Feet
Wattage: 750 watts
Model number: WMC20005YB
This microwave has a very unusual style. Unlike the others, it uses buttons and these are at the bottom, rather than the side.
So, why recommend it for seniors?
For one thing, the microwave is easy to understand. It doesn’t have many buttons either, which reduces confusion.
But, it still gives you enough control to cook food. This is a must for seniors who are cooking at home. The turntable is also large enough for a full dinner plate and it is very easy to watch food as it is cooking.
Final Thoughts
When you’re looking for a microwave for elderly family members, or even for yourself – ease of use is important. All three items on this list are simple to operate, which is a significant advantage.
The designs can work well for many different people. For example, using dials rather than small buttons is easier for anyone who has trouble with eyesight. Likewise, the tactile nature works well even for people with grip problems.
One other option is a talking microwave, like this one from Maxi-Aids. The product receives mixed reviews and can be a little confusing to use. However, the talking aspect is useful for some situations and is another style to consider.
For most elderly family members, the three options pictured in the list above would be the best place to start. If you can’t find one of those, try looking for a microwave with similar features.
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