Assistive Devices for Seniors with Arthritis
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 50 percent of seniors in the United States have arthritis. The condition can be quite debilitating for individuals who live with symptoms on a daily basis.
Top Tools for Living Better with Arthritis
Fortunately, there are devices that can help arthritis sufferers find relief from inflammation, stiffness, and pain. If you struggle with mobility and dexterity issues due to arthritis, here are a variety of assistive gadgets that can help make everyday tasks easier.
Mobility Aids
A cane, walker, wheelchair, or motorized scooter can help seniors with arthritis stay mobile and independent without the fear of falling. Using a mobility aid also takes pressure off of arthritic joints, resulting in less overall pain.
Devices for Around the Home
There are dozens of self-help tools on the market for every area of your home. Many of these products can be purchased at a hardware or medical supply store or online.
Kitchen: Jar openers, electric can opener, double handed pots and pans, weighted utensils.
Bedroom: Zipper pulls, button hooks, shoe and sock aids, like long-handled shoe horns.
Bathroom: Lotion applicator for reaching different areas of your body, toilet safety rail, grab bars next to the toilet and tub, bath mitts, a rubber suction mat next to the shower, raised toilet seat, electric toothbrush.
For more ideas, visit the Arthritis Foundation’s website.
Safety Modifications
People with arthritis are more susceptible to falling and fracturing bones. There are simple precautions you can take to avoid slips and trips around the home. Remove throw rugs, particularly if you use a walker or cane to get around. Make sure all staircases are well-lit, and consider adding additional light fixtures in stairwells. Install handrails by outdoor and indoor steps. Adjustable beds and recliners allow seniors to find a comfortable position to sleep or relax, reducing joint pain and pressure.
Pain Relievers
Arthritis pain can be incredibly disruptive to everyday life. Many people find relief through low impact exercise, the use of heat and ice packs, massage, and acupuncture. There are also wearable devices that can reduce inflammation and make movement more comfortable. These include knee braces, compression socks and sleeves, shoe inserts, and orthopedic shoes. An occupational or physical therapist can provide helpful insight and further recommendations that are tailored to your specific condition.
Visiting Angels Helps Seniors Age at Home Safely
If you or your senior family member in Barrington are living with arthritis and could use professional support, consider in-home care services with Visiting Angels. Our trained caregivers will assist seniors with daily activities that may be difficult or painful to perform themselves, including bathing, grooming, meal preparation, and chores. Additionally, caregivers help maintain a safe home environment by facilitating the use of assistive devices and offering mobility assistance.
Learn more about our flexible senior care options by filling out our contact form or giving us a call at 224-512-4180.