As you get older, it is surprising how the smallest things make life so much easier.
Some of these can be small changes like putting the TV remote on a lower shelf.
Others are tools that make common tasks less frustrating. For instance an electric can opener, which we are going to talk about in this buying guide and help you pick the best one for your needs.
An electric can opener makes opening cans and tins easier and safer for seniors with reduced strength and problems like arthritis.
We are going to review the best electric can openers for seniors. We choose the top picks based on ease of use, versatility and how good they are at opening cans.
But before we get to them, here are some tips for choosing the best can opener for yourself or an elderly family member.
What to Consider When Buying an Electric Can Opener for a Senior
a. Ease of Use
Don’t buy a product that makes opening cans harder than using a manual can opener. Check customer reviews to see people’s experience with the product.
Does it work as advertised? Do you need to use a lot of force? Does it require a complicated setup?
The best electric can openers have a simple one-touch operation. You put the can under the opener (or the opener over the can, depending on the design) and press a button or lever.
It should be a completely hands-free operation. You shouldn’t have to rotate or tightly hold the can.
Also check that the can opener has anti-slip feet or a sturdy base. Otherwise, it’s going to have a hard time staying still on the counter.
b. Versatility
Does the can opener do more than just open cans?
At the very least, it should also have a bottle opener. Others also include a mechanism for automatically unscrewing tight lids from bottles.
Some also include a knife sharpener.
When it comes to cans, the opener should be able to handle different sizes. Check the size and weight limit before ordering.
Generally, the more versatile the can opener the better.
But consider the price as well. If the can opener does five other things that you don’t really need, it may not be worth the extra cost.
c. Cleaning and Maintenance
Check how easy it is to take apart and clean the can opener. Ideally, the cleanable parts should be dishwasher-friendly.
d. Portability
If you love travelling or spending time at the pack, consider buying a lightweight and compact electric can opener that you can carry in your pocket and use wherever you are.
The can opener should be battery-powered.
The Best Electric Can Openers for Seniors Reviews [UK Market]
1. Morphy Richards Multifunction Can Opener
This is one of our favourite top picks thanks to its versatility and ease of use.
If you are looking for a can opener that can open just about anything, I recommend this one. It has 6 opening functions. Admittedly, only the main can opening function is electric but the others are helpful nonetheless.
Here’s what you get.
- An automatic can opener. Place the can under the cutting mechanism and press a lever. It will automatically start rotating the can and cutting the top off.
- A jar opener. This one is manual but it makes opening jars much easier. The non-slip opener fits over the lid and then you just have to twist gently to open.
- Ring pull can opener. Also manual. You slide a hook under the wring and pull to pry it open.
- Twist-off and Pop-off Bottle Cap Opener. Provides a stronger grip and better leverage to twist or pop lids off bottles.
- Plastic packaging opener. Makes it easier and safer to cut through tough plastic packaging or wrapping without scratching or damaging the contents inside.
The opener is easy to maintain. For small spills, you can just wipe off the black smooth body. The washable parts are dishwasher-friendly.
What we like about it:
- Very versatile – 6-in-1 functionality.
- Non-slip feet.
- Hidden cord storage for neat storage in a drawer or cupboard.
- Easy to use.
2. Kenwood CO600 3-in-1 Can Opener with Knife Sharpener and Bottle Opener
If you’ve been thinking about getting a can opener and a knife sharpener, no need to buy the two separately.
This device combines both functions in one easy to use product.
The can opener does two things: open cans and open bottles.
The opener is free standing and hands-free. You don’t have to fix it to the counter or hold it firmly as it works.
To open a can (max 1.2kg), you place it under the cutting mechanism and push a small lever. The blade will pierce the lid and automatically start cutting as the can rotates.
The opener will stop cutting automatically when the lid is off.
A magnet at the top holds the lid to make sure it doesn’t fall into the can. So you can just slide the open can out and you are good to go.
The bottle opener is manual but still handy to have around.
The knife sharpener is an unusual feature on a can opener but we love it. It’s a simple 2-stage electric sharpener that can sharpen a wide range of knives.
What we like about it:
- Relatively versatile – opens cans and bottles and can sharpen knives.
- Works with most types and sizes of cans.
- Sturdy anti-slip base to keep the opener stable especially when opening large cans.
- Easy to clean.
3. Judge Horwood JEA48 Can Opener
This is another can opener and knife sharpener combo.
It has a sleeker design than the Kenwood can opener and can handle heavier cans (up to 11kg).
It works pretty much the same way as other freestanding electric can openers. You place a can under the cutting head and push a small lever.
The device takes over. It will automatically rotate the can as it cuts.
A magnet conveniently holds the lid up to prevent it from dropping into the can.
The device also has a manual bottle opener on the side for beers and sodas.
The knife sharpener is a bit basic but perfect for those who don’t need a dedicated electric knife sharpener.
What we like about it:
- Ideal for extra-large and heavy tins.
- Fairly versatile – 3-in-1 functionality.
- Easy to use and clean.
4. Cooks Professional Electric Can/Tin Opener
If you are looking for a portable can opener, try this one by Cooks Professional.
It is a small tool that easily fits into your palm and which you can carry in your pocket.
Unlike other can openers, it does not sit on the counter. Instead, you place it on the tin you want to open and press a button.
The gadget will go round the tin as it cuts the lid off. It’s fascinating to watch.
It will automatically stop when done. An embedded magnet holds up the lid for easy disposal.
The can opener uses 4 AA batteries that are not included.
What we like about it:
- Highly portable.
- Easy to use.
- Well-built and long lasting.
5. Kenwood CO606 40 Watt 3-in-1 Can Opener
This is the same as the Kenwood can opener I have reviewed above. The only difference is that this one comes in chrome and is slightly pricier.
Otherwise it has the same 3-in-1 (automatic can opener, bottle opener and knife sharpener) functionality.
If you are looking for a more stylish and modern can opener for your countertop, this is a great choice.
What we like about it:
- Beautiful modern design.
- Versatile.
- Easy to use.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is an electric can opener better than a manual opener?
It definitely is. A manual can opener requires some force and dexterity to operate it. In contrast, an electric can opener is hands free, making it especially great for seniors with arthritis.
2. Can I get a cordless can opener?
Yes, there are plenty of cordless can openers that are powered by replaceable batteries or a rechargeable battery. These cordless models are great if you don’t have a spare outlet in your kitchen or want a portable electric can opener.
3. Where can I buy an electric can opener?
Check out the wide range of options – both plug-in and cordless – on Amazon UK. You can also check the kitchen appliance section of your local supermarket or see if there’s a kitchen appliance store in your area.
