For people with arthritis, even ordinary, daily activities and tasks can cause unbearable pain. It may also lead to a loss in independence, as the person starts to depend more heavily on others for aid. Fortunately, there are a number of helpful assistive devices for someone with arthritis that can both reduce pain and permit those with arthritis to do as much as possible by themselves.
What Are the Best Assistive Devices for Someone With Arthritis?
Consider these adaptive devices for someone struggling with arthritis pain and stiffness.
Help With Household Tasks
- Lever handles: These are easier on arthritic fingers than conventional doorknobs or sink handles, as they can be easily turned with the palms.
- Personal care tools: Getting dressed could be a challenge for people with arthritis. Opt for clothes that use Velcro fasteners over buttons or zippers, or items that can be pulled on without fasteners, such as pants with elastic waistbands. Place grab bars next to the toilet and in the shower for safety, and add a shower chair if standing strains the joints.
- Kitchen gadgets: Switch out any manually-powered gadgets, including a hand-held egg beater or can opener, with electric or battery-operated models. A dishwasher is invaluable for someone with arthritis, but if the person would prefer to wash dishes by hand, a bottle brush can help ease the process of washing glasses and cups. Purchase pots and pans with two handles as well, as these are a lot easier to lift and carry.
- Grabbers: With extended handles, these basic tools are good for relieving the need to reach out for an object. Utilize them to pick things up off of the floor or from high or low shelves, or to dust hard-to-reach places.
- Mobility devices: Walking can be painful with arthritis, however it’s necessary to stay as physically active as possible to maintain and build strength. Speak with a physical therapist who can recommend the correct tools to help, such as a cane, walker, crutches, braces, splints, or shoe inserts.
Reducing Falls
Fall prevention is particularly crucial for someone with arthritis. These pointers can help:
- Make sure that there’s sufficient lighting throughout the home, both inside and outside. Add night lights where needed so the individual can see to go from the bedroom to bathroom, kitchen, and any other rooms they could visit at nighttime.
- Be sure that the floors are clean and dry at all times.
- Eliminate clutter, throw rugs, cords or other objects which are in the individual’s walking paths.
- Stay away from ladders. A sturdy step stool with handrails and a wide base is a better alternative when needed.
- Use non-slip strips or mats in the bathroom, shower or bathtub, in front of the kitchen sink, and any place that may be prone to water splashes or spills.
How Can Home Care Help?
At-Home Care Company is committed to providing the assistance older adults need and encouraging independence. Our senior care professionals are experienced and trained in a wide range 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 self-reliance. Contact us at 515-292-2650 for more information! Visit our Service Area page for a full list of the communities where we provide care.