These assistive devices can help people with arthritis live active, more pain-free lives.
For someone with arthritis, even basic, daily tasks and activities can lead to unbearable pain. It could lead to a loss of self-reliance, if the person begins to rely more heavily on others for aid. Fortunately, there are a number of assistive devices that can both alleviate pain and permit those with arthritis to do as much as possible on their own.
What Are the Best Assistive Devices for Arthritis?
Consider these adaptive devices for a loved one living with arthritis pain and stiffness.
Assistance With Household Tasks
- Lever handles: These are easier on arthritic fingers than conventional doorknobs or sink handles, as they can easily be turned with the palms.
- Grabbers: With extended handles, these simple tools are good for alleviating the need to reach out for an object. Use them to pick things up from the floor or from low or high shelves, or to dust hard-to-reach places.
- 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 somebody with arthritis, however, if the person would prefer to wash dishes by hand, a bottle brush will help ease the process of washing cups and glasses. Purchase pans and pots with two handles as well, since these are much easier to lift and carry.
- Personal care tools: Putting on clothes might be a challenge for those with arthritis. Choose 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 next to the toilet and in the shower for safety, and add a shower chair if standing strains the joints.
- Mobility devices: Walking can be painful with arthritis, but it’s necessary to stay as physically active as possible to maintain and build strength. Speak with a physical therapist who can recommend the appropriate tools to help, such as a cane, walker, crutches, braces, splints, or shoe inserts.
Reducing Falls
Fall prevention is specifically essential for someone with arthritis. These pointers can help:
- Ensure that the floors are dry and clean at all times.
- Get rid of throw rugs, clutter, cords or any other objects which can be in the individual’s walking paths.
- Make sure that there is sufficient lighting throughout the home, both inside and out. Add night lights where needed so the individual can easily see to go from the bedroom to bathroom, kitchen, and any other rooms they might visit at nighttime.
- Avoid using ladders. A sturdy step stool with handrails and a wide base is a much safer alternative when needed.
- Use non-slip mats or strips in the bathroom, bathtub or shower, in front of the kitchen sink, and any place which may be more prone to water splashes or spills.
How Can Home Care Help?
At Abby Senior Care, we are invested in both providing the help older loved ones need and promoting independence. Our caregivers are trained and experienced in a wide range of care needs, but will never come in and “take over.”
Let us help someone you love preserve a healthy balance between in-home care assistance and autonomy. Contact us at 303-699-8840 for more information! Abby Senior Care provides care in Denver, Aurora, Centennial, and throughout the surrounding areas. Visit our Service Area page to view a list of the areas where we provide care.