I’ve written quite a bit about accessibility and mobility changes in older adults. It may also be helpful to look more closely at how certain features of everyday product packaging can support accessibility at home. Of course, not every feature will work for every disability, so this cannot be an exhaustive list. Instead, this post highlights a range of common consumer product packaging items people may already have in their homes.
If you’d like additional background, this topic builds on an earlier post discussing accessibility features in product packaging.
Lids
For products like moisturizers, food items, or cleaning supplies that come in tubs, pop-off lids may be more accessible than twist-off lids. This can be especially helpful for people with limited hand strength or difficulty with twisting motions, allowing them to open containers independently. One important safety note: when using chemical products with pop-off lids—such as disinfecting wipes—it’s important to keep them securely out of reach of children.
Sprays
For spray nozzles, such as those on perfumes or spray cleaners, there are a few accessibility considerations. One is having a nozzle that can be clearly felt or otherwise identified by touch. This is demonstrated well in this video by blind content creator Molly Burke, where she reviews accessible perfume packaging from Rare Beauty. She explains, “I know exactly where the spray nozzle is because it’s the direct reverse of where this divot is,” while pointing out a tactile marker built into the packaging.
This post is intended for general informational purposes only and is not medical advice. CareBuilders at Home provides non-medical home care services focused on supporting daily activities and independence at home.
Once again, this post grew longer than expected, so a second part will be coming soon.
Written by Brigid Coffey
