It’s estimated that 54 million adults in the US suffer from arthritis. The condition can cause inflammation in the joints – ultimately leading to pain and mobility issues. Arthritis can impact everyone and can have a massive impact on how easy day-to-day living is. Thankfully, there is an abundance of tips and advice that can help you live your life to the fullest. Below are a few top tips to help those with arthritis feel more confident in their own home.
Bed rails
While you may not feel old enough to need a grab rail, there is no harm in getting a little help. If you don’t want to install a bed rail to the wall, you can store away a temporary suction rail in your bedside cabinet and set it in place as and when you need it.
You could speak to an occupational therapist about what is making it difficult to get out of bed, to see what alternatives may be available.
How to make showering easier with arthritis
As kids, there was something extra exciting about showering at a grandparent’s home who had a shower seat because sitting down while showering seems like the ultimate definition of convenience.
But as people get older, or as arthritis develops, standing for long durations of time while showering can be difficult. Shower seats can be folded down when needed so that you can sit comfortably while you clean.
Long-handled bathing utensils like a back scrubber and foot cleaner can also help those who struggle to bend down or reach around their body.
How to button up clothing with arthritis
Those that struggle with arthritis in their hands may find zips and buttons extra tough – meaning your choices of clothing are really limited. Instead of having to avoid your favorite outfits, using a zip pull or a button hook can take the shame and stress out of getting ready on a morning.
Getting back in the garden
Gardening is a fantastic way to practice mindfulness and get outdoors. A little fresh air can do you the world of good and painful joints shouldn’t get in the way.
Wall handrails, grab bars on the steps, and a kneeling garden pad can help you get back out there in confidence. Gardening pads are perfect for anyone with delicate knees, while handrails can help you get in and out of the house.
Power lifted seating
For those that struggle to lift themselves out of comfy armchairs and sofas, why restrict yourself to a tough, hard dining chair? Power lifted recliners and furniture lifters can be a great way to give you the confidence to sit anywhere you fancy, knowing full well you’ll be able to get back up again.
Kitchen trays and trolleys
Carrying drinks or hot plates can be an interesting prospect for those with weak joints. A kitchen trolley, on the other hand, can be used to transport food and drink around the house to your favorite seat. Alternatively, if you love to cook, a trolley can help move pots, pans, and equipment around, so you have everything that you need to hand.
