Posted By Golson, McCracken Inc. || 15-May-2014

When you live with painful arthritis, it is much more difficult to perform even simple daily activities. We hope that you will find some of the ideas below helpful.

1. Use surge protector type extension cords and keep them on end tables or counters to avoid bending down or reaching to plug in electrical appliances and lamps.
2. Kitchen gadgets like small food choppers or food processors can make cutting vegetables easier.
3. Have a friend or family member help you with shopping. Alternatively, many stores will let you order your groceries ahead of time and have them ready for pick up for a small fee.
4. When you have a good day, prepare enough food to freeze for extra meals on the days when you are less capable.
5. Keep a wheeled stool or desk chair in your kitchen so that you can avoid standing and walking as much as possible.
6. Stand on padded rubber mats to prevent back and leg pain when at the stove or the sink.
7. Use paper and plastic ware to avoid washing dishes and handling heavy plates, bowls, and cups.
8. Use a long handled brush and sponge for bathing hard to reach areas. It is very difficult to wring out washcloths with swollen painful hands, so using a bathing pouf is a good idea. Long handled brushes and combs are also available.
9. Use a grabber to reach for items that are on the floor.
10. There are many assistive devices to help people who have difficulties with grip strength and/or bending to dress including zipper pulls, pull handles for putting on socks, long handled shoe horns, and button hooks.
11. Make a wish list for friends and family members. They may not know about the unique assistive devices that would make your life easier. There maybe chores that they can do for you that are increasingly difficult or impossible.

Living within your limitations and with your pain can be a little easier if you employ some of these ideas. If you have questions about where to get any of the devices above, or have ideas or suggestions to share, please call Golson & McCracken.