Arthritis isn’t just joint pain — it is also a loss of joint function. The two together can be incapacitating. Drugs can help the pain, but can’t do much for the loss of function. Assistive devices can help a person with arthritis do everything from bathing and dressing to cooking and cleaning.
- A reach extender can help you pick up small objects that may be over your head or that you can’t bend over to grab. You can increase your reach by up to thirty inches — that’s two and a half feet.
- A jar opener — the automatic kind or the rubberized kind — can help you open a jar of any size.
- Choose utensils with wider handles so they’re easier for arthritic fingers to grip.
- Zipper pulls and sock aids can help you get dressed more easily.
- Shoes with Velcro instead of laces will be much easier to put on.
- Switch regular lamps for a touch lamp so you don’t have to fumble with a switch.
- Look for clothes with large buttons — the size of a nickel for ease in buttoning. Pick large pockets so it’ll be easier to get things in and out. Try to find front-closing shirts and bras.
- Switch your regular phone for one with large buttons. A universal remote with larger buttons can help make TV watching easier.
- Use levered handles on your kitchen and bathroom sink.
- A bathtub bar and shower seat can help you in the tub or shower. The bar will help you get in and out safely; the seat will help you avoid falls and conserve energy. And don’t forget a long-handled brush or sponge to help you wash.
- Change your regular doorknobs for door levers for ease in opening and closing.
- A book holder can free your hands while you read.
- Canes, crutches, and walkers can help you move around the house without fear of falling.
One last tip: Rearrange your kitchen and bathroom so that the things you use the most are the easiest to reach.
Arthritis.org has a list of grocery items that have been commended for their ease of use.
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