We all need a little stimulant now and then, which is why coffeemakers are such great inventions. Today’s coffeemakers aren’t that different from the models of yesteryear. The brewing process for drip coffee is largely the same, though most of the newer models contain a few extra features that are added for convenience and safety.
Automatic Shut-off, Safety Handle, Unbreakable Carafe, Accessible Filter Baskets, Large Visuals, Broad, Shallow Filter Baskets
What to Look For in a Coffee Maker:
I. Automatic Shut-off
Mornings can be chaotic, especially before that first cup of coffee. As the day goes on it’s easy to forget that you haven’t turned the coffeemaker off. This is why it’s so important to purchase one with an automatic shut-off system, which will kick in if the machine is left on too long or if the heating coil gets too hot. This one little feature can save a senior, especially one with memory problems, from burns and possible fire damage.
Black & Decker DCM1350 VersaBrew Plus 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker
Though many coffeemakers have automatic shut-offs, this Black & Decker is exemplary because it keeps your coffee warm for just the right amount of time. It’s set for two hours, so you’ve got ample time to pour a few hot cups of joe before it turns off.
II. Safety Handle
Coffee carafes, especially glass ones, are extremely warm to the touch, which is why they come with handles. The handle can be useless, however, if there isn’t enough space between it and the carafe. This can cause knuckles and fingers to rest on the hot surface, resulting in burns and dropped carafes – and even more injuries. Since there’s no official measurement for how far apart the handle and carafe should be, it’s best to test them out yourself to ensure that your hand only touches the handle. In addition to more space, carafe handles should also be rounded to create a more comfortable grip, and its cool-to-the-touch handle should extend onto the unit. This will provide a buffer between knuckles and the hot carafe, should a senior accidentally rest any part of their fingers on the device.
Zojirushi EC-BD15 Fresh Brew Thermal Carafe Coffee Maker
This Zojirushi has the perfect handle: it’s rounded, extends along the side of the carafe, and has ample space between it and the carafe.
III. Unbreakable Carafe
Accidents happen. Whether it’s the result of a shaky hand, weakness or butterfingers, people do drop things from time to time. Unfortunately, hot carafes aren’t ideal items to drop. That’s why it’s essential for accident-prone seniors to use a thermal carafe. Their lids keep the coffee from spilling when dropped, and their exteriors will cause them to bounce, rather than break. Thermals also seem to experience less dripping and spillage than glass carafes, which tend to have wide, shallow lips. The shallowness can cause some liquid to dribble down the side of the lip and container, culminating in a large puddle. This is especially true for individuals who pour slowly, which may describe some seniors who must steady their hands and grip before emptying all the water into the reservoir or coffee into a mug.
DeLonghi DCM485 10-Cup Thermal Carafe and Coffeemaker, Brushed Stainless Steel
This carafe, like many thermal models, is made from brushed stainless steel and won’t break if it’s dropped or banged against an object. Another advantage of stainless-steel thermal carafes is their bases, which are designed to stay cool, allowing for easy placement on any table without leaving a mark. Thermals retain heat, eliminating the need for hot plates, which glass carafes must rely on to keep coffee warm. This feature can serve double duty for seniors who may lack strength, as they can put one hand under the thermal carafe to provide extra support while transporting it. Most thermal stainless-steel carafes will advertise their stay-cool bottom features. However, if it’s not explicitly stated on the packaging or manufacturer’s Web site, confirm this with an employee before attempting this at home.
IV. Accessible Filter Baskets
Oftentimes, the hardest part of the coffee brewing process is getting the filter basket to swing out. Some baskets are so stubborn that seniors have to wedge a fork or a knife in between the unit and the basket to dislodge it. An easy way to prevent this kind of trouble is to purchase a coffeemaker with a lift-up lid. The lid should have a lip, which provides extra leverage for anyone who may have trouble discerning between the bottom of the lid and the top of the basket.
Black& Decker DCM2500W SmartBrew 12-Cup Coffeemaker
Not only does this B&D filter have a lid with a lip, but that lid extends all the way to the water reservoir. With one lift you can deposit your water and grinds in their respective, well-spaced openings. This large lid also provides more stability than many reservoir-only lids, which can be flimsy and lightweight, easily slamming shut if the machine gets bumped. Just be sure you have the proper clearance before opening the lid.
V. Large Visuals
Many modern coffeemakers favor style and sleekness over practicality, which can result in smaller water level markings and power switches. An elderly person may need a little more visual help, however, locating the power switch, discerning whether the coffeemaker is on or off and pouring the appropriate amount of water into the reservoir. Water levels should be clearly marked with large numbers and hash marks that contrast with the model’s base color. Power buttons should also be large and simple to activate. Protruding buttons are great for seniors with poor eyesight, although switches can work too, as long as the senior can memorize which position is on and which is off. A large, colorful signal lamp should also be included to alert the senior when the coffeemaker is on.
Mr. Coffee 4-Cup Switch Coffeemaker
This Mr. Coffee comes in two color combos: black on white and white on black. In either case, the text-background contrast works pretty well. The water level numbers and hash marks on both the coffeemaker and the carafe are large and well spaced. The power switch is also large and easily recognizable, as is the green-lit signal lamp.
VI. Broad, Shallow Filter Baskets
Filter baskets can vary widely in size and shape. Some are cone-shaped, which can be quite difficult to clean, grasp and place filters in if you have less than perfect dexterity. Those who have trouble with their hands and fingers should opt for a shallower basket with a large base. The basket’s angles will be easy to grasp and clean, and filters will require minimal re-positioning. Broad baskets also have wider mouths, giving seniors a larger surface area to work with when they’re spooning in coffee grinds.
Medelco 4-Cup Permanent Basket Coffee Filter
This four-cup coffee filter works in most coffeemakers that contain a two- to five-cup filter basket. Not only does its wide shape make it an excellent coffee grinds catcher, but its ribbed, surgical stainless-steel walls give you some grip when removing the filter for cleaning. Speaking of cleaning – it’s also dishwasher safe. It works especially well with Mr. Coffee 4-Cup Switch Coffeemakers.
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