JDT Designs: Dexterity Mate

The challenge

Recipient is experiencing difficulties with feeding, specifically with chopsticks due to impaired fine motor and dexterity skills associated with Parkinson's Disease.

Who it helps

Daughter of person diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease

How it works

Literature shows that a lightweight utensil might be preferable to a weighted one for Parkinson's disease patients to enable high-velocity and fluid arm movement. In addition, built up utensils may increase motor control during feeding.

The original idea was to create a weighted utensil attachment. However, the current proposed solution includes a built up, adapted utensil holder with a universal cuff that accommodates different types of utensils.

Project details

• Stage: Concept
• Built by the TOM International Community community, Global
• Team: Tina Lee
• Category: Daily Living, Therapy

The build files for JDT Designs: Dexterity Mate are free to download from this page - open source, shared by TOM: Tikkun Olam Makers.

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