You can see full details of the Clever Colander and buy it here.

The first thing I need to stress is that I don’t believe this product was designed specifically for people living with dementia. But that being said, I think this will be a great addition to a kitchen for those who do live with dementia. Hence the review.

As we all know draining hot or boiling liquids can be dangerous even for the best of cooks, but an even greater risk for those with dementia.

The Clever Colander mitigates a lot of the risks with its clever tilting designer.

The Clever Colander is a colander within a bowl. The colander can be removed and the bowl used to measure or as a mixing bowl. So, it has multiple uses. 

Very easy to use with the moving parts in a different colour, so easy to identify.
The colander locks into the bowl. With the push of the white button on the handle the colander is released to swivel allowing you to drain the hot liquid without scolding your hands.

With the button remained pushed in you can remove the colander from the bowl. This lets you use it in a different ways. You can as above drain and the tip the liquid out into the sink or simply remove the colander and keep the water in the bowl until it has cooled or if you wish to use the liquid later.

To place the colander back in the bowl is also easy. Slide the pivots on the side of the colander into the slots in the bowl and push the lock button on the handle back into a locked position, making sure the locking pin is lined up with the hole. 

It is as simple as that. The Clever Colander is dishwasher safe which is an added bonus.

I am not sure about the measurements on the inside of the bowl. Until my wife pointed them out to me, I had no idea they were there. They are in the same colour as the bowl and so, with the type of dementia I have, I could not see the markings.

I would have also preferred a more solid handle. The handle is a hollowed out semi-circle. It would have for me, been better being solid. More secure in the hand as the edges seem to be a bit uncomfortable in the hand. But you don’t hold the handle that long, so this is just my preference.

About the author

Michael Booth
Michael is a former carer for his mom who lived with young onset Alzheimer’s disease for nine years and now himself lives with young onset Alzheimer’s disease. This gives him a view from both sides, a unique position. Michael is a Research Network volunteer and a member of the Innovations Board for the Alzheimer’s Society. Michael is also a member of the Geller Commission Advisory Board for people living with dementia; Experts by Experience Group for dementia; Brains for Dementia Advisory Board for Alzheimer’s Research UK; Young Dementia Network steering group member; Member of the NHS patient and Carer group (Dementia Advisor). Michael is a former Project and Technical Manager for a global electrical and electronic cable designer and manufacturer.

Author of the book: Dementia, you are not alone!