There are multiple devices that help people with arthritis perform daily tasks more easily and improve quality of life.
When a person has arthritis, even simple, daily tasks and activities may cause debilitating pain. It could result in a loss of independence, if the person begins to rely more heavily on others for assistance and support. Fortunately, there are many helpful devices that help people with arthritis to do as much as possible independently.
What Are the Best Devices that Help People With Arthritis?
Consider these adaptive tools for somebody struggling with arthritis pain and stiffness.
Help With Household Tasks
- Grabbers: With extended handles, these basic tools are great for relieving the need to reach out for an object. Utilize them to pick things up from the floor or from high or low shelves, or to dust hard-to-reach places.
- Lever handles: These are easier on arthritic fingers than conventional doorknobs or sink handles, because they can easily be turned with the palms.
- Personal care tools: Putting on clothes can be a challenge for people with arthritis. Select clothes that use Velcro fasteners over zippers or buttons, or items that can be pulled on without fasteners, such as shorts with elastic waistbands. Place grab bars beside the toilet and in the shower for safety, and add a shower chair if standing strains the joints.
- Kitchen gadgets: Replace any manually-powered gadgets, including a can opener or hand-held egg beater, with electric or battery-operated models. A dishwasher is invaluable for somebody with arthritis, but if the person would rather wash dishes by hand, a bottle brush can help ease the process of washing cups and glasses. Purchase pots and pans with two handles as well, as these are considerably easier to lift and carry.
- Mobility devices: Walking can be painful with arthritis, however it’s vital to stay as physically active as possible in order to maintain and build strength. Communicate with a physical therapist who can recommend the proper tools to help, such as a cane, walker, braces, crutches, splints, or shoe inserts.
Reducing Falls
Fall prevention is especially important for someone with arthritis. These guidelines can help:
- Use non-slip mats or strips in the bathroom, shower or bathtub, in front of the kitchen sink, and any place which may be prone to water splashes or spills.
- Make sure that there is sufficient lighting throughout the home, both inside and outside. Add night lights where needed so the person is able to see to go from the bedroom to bathroom, kitchen, and any other rooms they may visit at nighttime.
- Remove throw rugs, clutter, cords or any other objects which can be in the individual’s walking paths.
- Make sure that the floors are clean and dry at all times.
- Stay away from ladders. A sturdy step stool with handrails and a wide base is a much better alternative when needed.
How Can Home Care Help?
At Inspired Home Care, we are passionate about both providing the support older adults need and promoting independence. Our caregivers are experienced and trained in a variety of in-home care needs, but will never come in and “take over.” Let us help someone you love sustain a healthy balance between home care assistance and independence. Contact us at 847-787-7572 to find out more!