Arthritis: aids and equipment to help
Having arthritis doesn’t necessarily mean you will be restricted in your day-to-day activities — there is a wide variety of simple and practical home care and lifestyle aids available, designed to help reduce pain associated with your arthritis and improve your comfort, safety and ability to carry out tasks.
In the home
Many people with severe arthritis prefer to live in single-storey homes to avoid the burden of stairs, but moving house is not always a practical solution. You may wish to explore the option of a stairlift/homelift, depending on the limitations of your condition and the suitability of your home. Other products that can help you maintain your independence include:
- key turners and door knob covers;
- specially designed scissors with large handles;
- book holders to avoid strain on the wrists and joints;
- pick-up reachers (a tong-like implement that makes reaching for and grasping objects easier);
- rubber grips for pens and pencils. These mean you will not have to grip as hard;
- ejector seat chairs, which may help people with limited mobility; and
- light, long-handled brooms and dustpans to avoid bending.
Talk to your doctor or occupational therapist about installing handles and aids around the home to ensure they are appropriately placed, and that they can support your weight.
Getting dressed
This simple task can become a challenge for people with arthritis, but mastering it can provide a confidence boost. Aids available include:
- zipper and button pullers;
- a sock notch — an aid that helps you pull your socks on;
- shoe horns; and
- long-handled combs and toenail scissors.
In the kitchen
Many products are available to make sure your arthritis doesn’t disadvantage you in the kitchen. These include:
- ergonomic peelers, cutlery and knives;
- non-slip cutting boards and table mats;
- jar openers;
- tap turners. These work on a basic lever system. Alternatively, lever taps are available;
- soft bag handles;
- can claws — special can openers that prevent stress on your hands;
- plastic wrap cutters; and
- carton pourers/sealers.
In the garden
It is important to avoid unnecessary strain if you have arthritis and care for a garden. Here are some tips on how to continue enjoying your garden without aggravating your arthritis.
- If possible, use kneeling pads and long, lightweight gardening implements.
- Attaching a rubber grip to tools can help prevent swelling of the knuckles, if this is a problem.
- Depending on the severity of your arthritis, you may wish to work from your wheelchair or from a stool.
- A wide range of gardening aids is available, such as stainless steel spades (soil doesn’t cling as much as to ordinary spades), seed planters that don’t require bending, and pruning shears designed to protect the joints.
In the bathroom
Slippery surfaces and wet areas make bathrooms a tricky area for many people with arthritis. Here are some tips on how to stay safe in the bathroom.
- Install safety treads in your shower and bathroom. These may also be used on stairs, in the laundry or in any area where you are concerned about stability.
- Toilets are available with a raised seat, and there are special tongs/holders for toilet paper. Installing hand rails around the toilet may be helpful.
- A bath seat offers security in the tub. You may also need handles on either side to assist when getting out.
- Install a hand rail in the shower, and/or use a plastic seat in the shower.
Choosing the right shoe
For someone with arthritis, the correct shoe can significantly increase comfort. Many people find slip-on shoes are the most appropriate. If fastenings are required, look for elasticised laces, or a zipper with an easily accessible handle.
Re-educate yourself
Living with arthritis does not mean you need to compromise on your quality of life, although you may need to re-educate yourself on how to perform some routine tasks. Don’t feel ashamed of your condition: use the resources available to you, accept offers of help and ask for assistance if you need it. Talk to your doctor, healthcare professional, occupational therapist or rheumatologist about living with arthritis.
Where to find aids and equipment
For more information, or to purchase aids and equipment, talk to your occupational therapist, local pharmacist or local arthritis support group.
Last Reviewed: 23 August 2009
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