With arthritis, one of the hardest obstacles to overcome are the limitations and lack of physical abilities for everyday living. Range of motion is a constant challenge.
My shoulders are severely affected, causing extreme limitations. Before my first two shoulder replacements, I was not able to touch the top of my head; and even after surgery, it took years. When I factor in fused wrists and artificial elbows, my abilities remain limited
Over the years, I’ve invented ways of coping and doing things in a non-traditional manner. My biggest claim to fame was doing my hair with salad tongs. Because I was not able to touch my head, I used salad tongs as my fingers and hands. (At one time, I was able to use a curling iron using tongs.) Probably the item I use the most is a bent clothes hanger that buttons jeans, closes zippers and pushes pockets into place.
When gardening, I carry plants and tools in a five-gallon bucket. While planting, I turn the bucket over and use it as a seat. It allows me to reach in all directions, keep my balance, avoid straining my legs and rest when necessary. Not to mention, it’s at a good height to get up and down.
There are many businesses and occupational therapists offering adaptive equipment to make life a bit easier. One of the best items I’ve purchased was a transfer bench for the bathtub and shower. If you have difficulty stepping into a tub or had surgery on your lower extremities, this is worth the investment. It’s similar to a shower bench, but it has two legs in the tub and two legs outside of it; providing a safe way to transfer in and out and shower and bathe
What items do you use the most? Have you invented a tool or device that helps with activities of daily living? Do you know of adaptive equipment that you would not recommend? If so, why?
Take a wooden spoon and use the spoon part to help put on deodorant. If you like happy face, you can make a happy face on the wooden part also!
On the other end, you can tape a razor - it gives you more reach.
Cost is minimal, but the help is wonderful!
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