The problem with using a standard drop-door dishwasher is that it requires a lot of bending, which can hurt your back. Thus, it isn’t an ideal choice for older people with achy joints and back pain.
Here at ApplianceGeeked, we’ve found alternative solutions that can help you get the dishes done without the extra strain on your body.
Below, we’ve rounded up the best dishwashers for the elderly.
How We Picked
- Cleaning Performance: A great dishwasher for older people must have a strong and consistent cleaning performance. It makes this mundane chore a lot easier.
We rated the dishwashers’ cleaning performance based on how well they remove stains, ranging from dried-on foods, greasy sauces, and pureed greens. Then, we chose the units that had the best results.
- Drying Performance: Drying is as important as cleaning. With a poor drying performance, you’ll have to dry the dishes by hand.
In assessing the dishwashers’ drying performance, we looked closely at how well they were able to dry dishes made of different materials, such as ceramic, glass, stainless steel, and plastic.
- Accessibility: Loading and unloading a standard drop-door dishwasher can strain your back because it requires a lot of bending. To help you with that, we looked closely at the design.
We chose user-friendly dishwashers with accessible features. We gave extra points to the units that complied with the Americans with Disabilities Act because they are designed for people with physical limitations.
- Ease of Use: We looked closely at the rack design and assessed their adjustability. Such features make it possible for you to load a variety of items onto the racks with ease.
- Noise Level: No one should lose sleep because of a noisy dishwasher. To help you avoid that, we selected dishwashers with relatively low decibel ratings.
- Value for Money: We chose dishwashers that give you excellent value for your money in the long run.
To find the units that are worth your hard-earned money, we took into account the features and functionality of the dishwashers. Then, we determined if they were worth the price.
Fisher & Paykel DD24SAX9 N
| Brand | Fisher & Paykel |
| Model | DD24SAX9 N |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 23 9/16” x 16 ⅛” x 22 9/16” |
| Installation Type | Built-Under |
| Place Settings | 7 |
| Noise Level | 43 dBA |
| Number of Racks | 1 |
| Wash Programs | Delicate, Fast, Heavy, Medium, Eco, and Rinse |
| Features | Fan-assisted Drying, Flood Protection, Flow-through Dispenser, Quiet Operation, and SmartDrive Technology |
| Tub Material | Stainless Steel |
Our Overall Rating: 8.3/10
Pros
- Minimizes bending
- Easy maintenance
- Quiet performance
- ADA-compliant
- Energy Star-certified
Cons
- Limited space
- Limited rack accessories
- Expensive
Single-drawer dishwashers like Fisher & Paykel’s DD24SAX9 N are great for older persons with weak knees and aching backs. Since they can be installed at bench height, minimal bending is required during the loading and unloading process.
We like the DD24SAX9 N dishwasher because it’s compact but can fit plates up to 11” in size. Its single drawer features 7 place settings, which makes it ideal for empty nesters who don’t have piles of dishes to wash on the daily.
The compact space could be a drawback if you love to entertain in your household. If family or friends are constantly coming over, you might end up washing the rest of the dishes by hand.
Its rack design is quite simple and easy to navigate. However, we wish it had more accessories like stemware holders for wine glasses.
Another thing we like is its front display and controls. You can see the ongoing wash program and its progress from afar.
It’s more expensive than the standard drop-door dishwasher, but its innovative design, reliable performance, and silent operation make dishwashing convenient and effortless.
Customer Reviews
“I love the style and easy access. It would be nice if it had a deeper drawer in order to have cups and glasses in a larger space, the plates I have which are a large width wise, would fit better. I have two drawers, so I am using one for pots and pans, cups. The cleaning is excellent, I use pods. The other for plates at this time. Also, the only negative I have it does not always completely dry the dishes no matter which setting I use.” Anonymous, Fisher & Paykel
“Only two issues that I have with this model: first is the moveable racks inside kept falling apart and second is I like a shallow handle of some type to hang dish towel on for convenience of wiping off any remaining water from dishes. I never figured out a way to make the racks stay securely attached so I finally just removed them. My absolute favorite things are the quick wash cycle and the silent operation!” Shurl, Fisher & Paykel
Fisher & Paykel DD24DAX9 N
| Brand | Fisher & Paykel |
| Model | DD24DAX9 N |
| Dimensions | 23 9/16” x 32 5/16-34 5/8” x 22 9/16” |
| Installation Type | Built-Under |
| Place Settings | 14 |
| Noise Level | 43 dBA |
| Number of Racks | 2 |
| Wash Programs | Delicate, Fast, Normal Eco, Heavy, Medium, and Rinse |
| Features | Flood Protection, SmartDrive Technology, Quiet Operation, Fan-Assisted Drying |
| Tub Material | Stainless Steel |
Our Overall Rating: 8/10
Pros
- Two drawers function independently
- Front LED display and controls
- Has a half-load function
- WiFi Connectivity
- ADA-compliant
Cons
- Expensive
Fisher & Paykel’s DD24DAX9 N is an ADA-compliant dishwasher with twice the size of its single-drawer variants. If a single-drawer dishwasher doesn’t have enough space for you, this is a great alternative.
This dishwasher is just as convenient, flexible, and reliable. Our favorite thing about it is that it has two drawers that function independently from each other.
If you don’t have a lot of dishes to clean, you can run a small load in one drawer to conserve energy and water. You can use both drawers, which can accommodate a total of 14 place settings when you are entertaining friends or loved ones.
Not all Fisher & Paykel double-drawer dishwashers are ADA-compliant, but this unit is. You can install it at bench height to minimize bending when you are loading or unloading the drawers.
It also sits flush with the cabinetry, creating a smooth, seamless look for your kitchen. Since it doesn’t stick out awkwardly, you can prevent accidents.
Like other drawer dishwashers, the DD24DAX9 N lands on the upper end of the price range. Still, we would recommend it to older people because it’s quiet, easy to operate, and keeps bending to a minimum.
Customer Reviews
“Bit of trial and error loading these dishwasher drawers but once you figure it out all the dishes clean great. I love how you can do different loads with different settings. Cooking and appetizer dishes go in the top drawer, I can start it and then little while later I can load dinner dishes and start it. While that’s running and the first drawer finishes I can unload top drawer and load dessert dishes. Living by myself it’s nice not to have to wait days to fill a dishwasher to run a load. I can do a little one drawer at a time without feeling bad about running a half load of dishes. Pretty sturdy and well built. I’ve read how reliable this dishwasher is. Looks great too. Glad I went with this brand and model. Note: I don’t but if you have larger 12” plates you might want to go with one of the other models with a 60/40 split for more room in the top otherwise more than a couple large dishes don’t fit.” Cavv, Fisher & Paykel
“Cleans extremely well. I haven’t had to rewash anything so far. Holds more than it looks. Reconfigures for large objects very easily. They are pricey, but I don’t regret spending the money. We have 2 drawers that fit in same space as conventional d/w. It’s very quiet.” Barlaz, Fisher & Paykel
Danby DDW631SDB
| Brand | Danby |
| Model | DDW631SDB |
| Dimensions | 19.7″ x 21.6″x 17.3″ |
| Installation Type | Countertop |
| Place Settings | 6 |
| Noise Level | 54 dBA |
| Number of Racks | 1 |
| Wash Programs | Heavy, Normal, Baby Care, Glass, Speed, Rinse, ECO, and Mini-Party |
| Features | LED display, Safety Lock, 24-Hour Delay Start, |
| Tub Material | Stainless Steel |
Our Overall Rating: 7/10
Pros
- Has a LED display
- User-friendly
- Low water consumption
- Energy Star-compliant
Cons
- Limited space
- Slightly loud
Danby’s DDW631SDB is a countertop dishwasher, ideal for older people with back problems. Since it sits on top of a counter, no bending is required when you load or unload the dishes.
One of the downsides is that it can only fit 6 place settings, which is why it’s ideal for older persons who live alone or with a partner. Although small, this dishwasher has convenient features and various wash programs that make the chore less tedious.
It has an LED display that keeps you informed about the ongoing wash programs and the progress. Through the Time Display, you can easily track the remaining time of your selected cycle and the number of hours left for the Delayed Start function.
We like that the LED display is placed in front of the dishwasher because you can easily check the status of the wash program without interrupting it.
Danby’s countertop dishwasher comes at an affordable price. However, if you look at its limited space and noise level, it’s a bit pricey compared to budget-friendly drop-door dishwashers that can offer double the space and lower decibel ratings.
We think the DDW631SDB is worth it if you’re looking for convenience and functionality. If your back can no longer handle all that bending, this dishwasher is a lifesaver.
Customer Reviews
“It was easy to unbox, you only need to cut the straps and pull the carton upwards. I was expecting a lot of hassle installing it, but it was Fairly easy to set up. Everything fits perfectly. The only thing I need to know is what type of soap I can use with it. I have tried it once and so far I am happy with it.” – Bendubois, Danby
“This is my second Danby dishwasher; I only retired the first one, after over 20 years of faithful service, because I could no longer find maintenance parts. But I’m not disappointed. This new unit performs at least as well, if not better, than the original, with more space for dishes and more cycle options. And don’t forget the flexibility to wash pots and pans, not just place settings! I would definitely recommend this to anyone with a small kitchen and no room for a standard built-in dishwasher.” – Eric S, Danby
EdgeStar DWP62SV
| Brand | EdgeStar |
| Model | DWP62SV |
| Dimensions | 21 5/8″ x 17 5/16″ x 19 5/8″ |
| Installation Type | Countertop |
| Place Settings | 6 |
| Noise Level | 52 dBA |
| Number of Racks | 1 |
| Wash Programs | Heavy, Normal, Light, Glass, Baby Care, Speed and Rinse |
| Features | Digital Display, Cutlery Basket, Quick Connect Adapter |
| Tub Material | Stainless Steel |
Our Overall Rating: 7.2/10
Pros
- Hassle-free installation
- User-friendly
- Fits 10.5” plates
Cons
- Limited space
- Slightly loud
Another countertop dishwasher that we would recommend to older folks is the EdgeStar DWP62SV. If you’re on a tight budget, this small yet very efficient dishwasher can help you get the dishes done without raising your utility bills.
Installation is quick, easy, and won’t cost you extra. Thanks to its Quick Connect adapter, it can fit most standard-sized kitchen faucets and sit right on top of your counter/cabinets.
If you live alone or with a partner, this small dishwasher can take care of your daily dishwashing needs. It can even fit dinner plates up to 10.5” in size.
With 7 wash cycles to choose from, you can clean a wide range of dishes. It does clean well, but it has a hard time drying plastics thoroughly.
Its noise level is above average, which means it’s audible when running, especially in a small kitchen. However, it won’t keep you or your neighbors up at night.
Given the size of the EdgeStar DWP62SV, we think it’s pricey as it can only hold 6 place settings. You’re paying for convenience, portability, reliability, and functionality, which we suppose are worth your hard-earned money.
Customer Reviews
“I hate doing dishes but didn’t have the space for a full-size dishwasher in my travel trailer. I live in the trailer full-time and use the dishwasher every day. It works perfectly, runs quietly and the dishes pots and pans are spotless. One thing to note: I use Cascade pods which work well but the detergent portion is designed for full-size dishwashers which means that unless you run a separate rinse cycle (as I do), soap residue remains when the cycle is complete. This isn’t the fault the dishwasher but rather, of the amount of detergent used.” Phillip Woodney, Amazon
“Honestly one of the best purchases ever. It fits perfectly on the counter and fits quite a few dishes… cookware and place settings for 4 people at least. Large cutting boards and skillets don’t fit, bit it eliminates a large portion of dishes that it makes it 100% worth it. Gets dishes clean, doesn’t smell, and puts out a good amount of heat to dry the dishes as well.” Rachel Ellis, Amazon
Comfee CDC22P1BBB
| Brand | Comfee |
| Model | CDC22P1BBB |
| Dimensions | 21.7” x 17.2” x 19.7” |
| Installation Type | Countertop |
| Place Settings | 6 |
| Noise Level | 49 dBA |
| Number of Racks | 1 |
| Wash Programs | Heavy, Normal, Baby-Care, ECO, Glass, Speed, Mini-Party, Rinse |
| Features | 360° Spiral Spray, 12 Washing Nozzles Cutlery Basket, |
| Tub Material | Stainless Steel |
Our Overall Rating: 7.5/10
Pros
- Cleans heavily-soiled dishes
- Can be fitted in the cupboard
- Energy Star-certified
Cons
- Limited space
- Slightly noisy
Last but not least, we recommend Comfee’s CDC22P1BBB dishwasher. It has earned a spot on our list because of its ease of installation and flexibility.
You can install it right on your kitchen countertops. However, if you don’t have enough space on your counters, you can have it fitted in your cupboards.
This dishwasher has limited space but it’s thoughtfully designed so that it fits 70 different pieces in a single load, including plates up to 10” in diameter. This compact dishwasher can fit glasses, cups, large serving bowls, and cutlery in the same load.
It has a 360° spiral spray and 12 washing nozzles that can blast away the toughest stains. With 8 different wash programs to choose from, you can optimize cleaning and get clean dishes every time.
One of our favorites is the Speed cycle, which can clean well and fast. It can get your dishes done in 45 minutes.
Measuring 21.7” x 17.2” x 19.7”, the Comfee CDC22P1BBB is great for small apartments, vacation houses, or mobile homes. We would recommend it to older folks who want to enjoy their retirement without the tedious dishwashing.
Customer Reviews
“Installed in my 2019 Trailmastwr 274QB under the range, since there was no oven. Works way better than what I expected. Works Ike what I would expect to see in a house. 10″ plates are the absolute MAX, otherwise you’ll gave to practicality lay them down flat. The handle on the utensil tray was broken from the frame, so I fixed that, and the side was dented like someone kicked it. That’s probably some young punk that had to move it and I blame shipping for that since people are allergic to hard work these days.” Dwayne E., Amazon
“This countertop dishwasher has been an amazing upgrade to my life. I only have to hand wash my pots and pans which is better for them anyways. My Plates come out 99% clean. Very rarely there is a piece of food on a plate and I believe it’s because of how it was loaded. Silverware and accessories come out spotless every time. Make sure nothing is blocking the spray bar and use hot water!!” Howie, Amazon
Here at ApplianceGeeked, we can help you upgrade your kitchen appliances to match your ever-changing needs. Our roundup of the best dishwashers for the elderly should make clean-ups less cumbersome and backbreaking.
If you want to explore other options, we have other lists that might help. We have a list of the most energy-efficient dishwashers (Most Energy Efficient Dishwashers) and the best dishwashers for hard water (Best Dishwashers for Hard Water) on our website.
