You are sitting in your favorite spot in your home—what do you have within arm’s reach?
I recently polled my workmates and received a host of answers, including a computer or iPad, tissues, reading material, Sudoku or crossword puzzles, a pen, a notepad, the television remote, a beverage and, of course, a cellphone.
As human beings, we like our frequently used stuff nearby, where we can’t lose track of it. It makes our lives easier, more enjoyable, more hassle-free and much more comfortable. And because of this, designers have for centuries created new ways to give us a resting place for that stuff.
Take, for example, the nightstand or bedside table, which was created to be a resting place for items positioned beside the bed. It’s often used to hold objects that might be useful during the night, such as eyeglasses, a drink or medication.
The seat-back tray table was invented for travelers on a train or plane as a space to rest a book, magazine, beverage cup or meal during their journey.
The over-bed tray table used in hospitals was invented to provide a usable surface for meals, beverages, reading glasses, etc., while the patient is in bed or seated in a chair.
There is even a car tray table that hooks to the steering wheel to give users an ergonomic desk or a place to set out their lunch. I could have used that during my days in sales when I was on the road five days a week. For those who may not be familiar with this kind of product, do an image search for “steering wheel desk” to see what they look like.
Another invention was designed specifically with older adults in mind. The Table-Mate tray table is a secure table that folds easily for storage, can be adjusted in height and angle, and comes right up to the body of the user, making everything on it within arm’s reach.
Seniors, especially those with mobility issues, could find a table like this extremely helpful for keeping often-used items close by.
Recently the folks at Table Mate have partnered with Senior Concerns to offer a free Table-Mate II tray table to local seniors in need.
Low-income seniors and those with mobility issues who would benefit from a tray table can apply for a free Table-Mate. Recipients must live in Simi Valley, Moorpark, Thousand Oaks, Newbury Park, Westlake Village, Oak Park or Agoura Hills.
To apply for a Table-Mate II, call Senior Concerns at (805) 497-0189 from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday or email mshapiro@seniorconcerns.org.
Tables can be picked up at Senior Concerns during office hours or, if needed, they will be delivered and assembled by a volunteer.
Table-Mate and Senior Concerns are happy to provide this handy device to help make life easier and more comfortable during this time of sheltering in place due to COVID-19.
The goal of this community gift for seniors-in-need is to stay safe, stay organized and stay comfortable.
