Soultions for Common Problems Caused by Senior Arthritis

For the senior who has arthritis, it is common for some of the common daily tasks to be more difficult to preform. This is normal and although the effects of arthritis can not be reversed, it is possible to make living with arthritis more comfortable and easy for the senior. There are a number of aspects of daily life that can be affected by arthritis.

Arthritis is used to describe a group of diseases that affect the joints of the body. There are quite a few different types of arthritis, but in general, seniors are most likely to have rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis. Despite there being more than a hundred types of arthritis, these two types are the most common.

Difficulty Grasping Small Objects

Problem: Often, one of the most difficult tasks for a senior is using things with their hand. This will, in many cases, be most noticeable in the kitchen, as things like opening jars, using spoons to stir food, and using a rolling pin are some of the more common tasks for seniors.

Solution:One of the ways this difficulty is addressed is to use utensils with larger handles. For example, it is possible to get spoons and other utensils that have much larger easier to grasp handles. This also extends out of the kitchen, as things like extra-large pens or special key holders, which attach to a key to create a bigger place for the senior to hold the key with,

Of course, there are some things that having bigger handles might not help. So, it is important to look at the way the task is preformed, to find a way to make it easier for the senior. For example, in the case of a rolling pin, the senior could place their palms on top of the rolling pin and using both hands, roll the pin forward and backwards. This way, rather than trying to grasp the small handles of the rolling pin, the flat surface of the hands can be used to efficiently move the rolling pin.

Tools like Jar Openers are also popular and use mechanical principals to reduce the effort it takes to preform the task.

Difficulty Carrying Objects

Problem:Another common problem for seniors with arthritis is difficulty carrying things around. This could be moving the laundry from one room to the other, carrying a purse, or putting the dishes away.

Solution:For those with arthritis, bags with wheels are one of the best ways to move items around. There are many different types of bags available, even small ones, that feature wheels and an extensible handle. This can be a great way to get the laundry to the laundry room. It is even possible to purchase larger rolling laundry baskets, like those that would be used at a hotel, which are designed specifically to move laundry from room to room without difficulty. However, many find that using standard rolling luggage is a better choice, as the luggage can be used at home and away, where the rolling laundry cart can only be used at home.

When it comes to carrying objects, such as plates, which can not be safely placed in a bag, holding the object tightly against the chest is a great way to spread out its weight and reduce the amount of strain on the hands and wrist.

Difficulty Walking or Moving

Problem:For those that have arthritis in their knee, hip, or leg, walking can be very difficult and even painful. Not only can this make life more difficult for seniors with arthritis, but it also can lead to falls.

Solution:There are several ways to address this issue, but usually using a rollator is the easiest and most inexpensive option. Rollators are basically walkers, but they have wheels on them, so instead of having to actually lift the walker up with each step, the senior can simply push it forward. This is much safer than using a traditional walker or a cane.

Another option would be to use a mobility scooter to make getting around easier. Mobility scooters are similar to electric wheelchairs, but they are designed more as a aid for those who are able walk, but with difficulty. These can be excellent tools, but expect to spend between $500 and $2000 for a quality mobility scooter, where a rollator is usually around $100.

However, no matter what the solution, it is essential that the senior has a well made pair of shoes, with non-slip soles. These shoes should be worn at home and away, which will significantly reduce the risk of a fall. It is also important to be careful about what situation the senior is put into, such as avoiding going out when it is rainy or slippery.