Home adaptations for someone living with Arthritis

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is a common condition that causes joint pain and inflammation. Whether you have osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis, some daily tasks such as cooking, bathing, doing laundry and moving around the house can become a real challenge.

Adapting your home to suit your needs can make a huge difference to your daily life. These changes do not need to cost lots of money and make your home a safe and comfortable place. Arthritis isn’t just physically painful but can also be isolating and discouraging so making your home a comfortable place is a great start. We have highlighted some ways you can adapt your home below:

Home adaptations for someone living with Arthritis

It’s not always easy to know where to start when making home adaptions, especially if you have lived in your home for a long time. It is important to make changes that suit your condition.

Reserve energy

• Avoid bending and reaching when possible. Keep items at counter level and use a grabber tool to reduce the need to stretch.
• Purchase smaller size items that are easier to handle. For example, detergents are disposable pods and eliminate the need to lift large bottles.
• Sit while completing daily activities. Put a chair next to the sink so you don’t have to stand while washing dishes.
• Adjust your timing. Prepare dinner at midday if your hands tend to hurt in the evening, for example.

Safety is key

People with osteoarthritis are more likely to fall or experience new fractures. These falls are most likely to happen in the bathroom.

Some tips to keep your bathroom safe:

• Keep an adjustable transfer bench next to the bathtub to help you get in and out.
• Use a seat in the shower.
• Install grab bars by the bath, shower and toilet.
• Put slip mats in the bath and by the toilet.
• Turn on a bedside lamp or use a touch light when you go the bathroom at night.

Stairs

The stairs can also be tricky if your knees, hips or ankles are affected. Some small changes that can be made:

• Install slip mats on stairs.
• Hold a cane in one hand for support and use the railing to go up and down the stairs.
• Install guard rails on outdoor steps.

More adaptations to your home, such as handrails, grab rails and ramps may make moving around the house much easier, and specialist equipment like bath aids, riser chairs and long-handled grabbers can make everyday tasks simpler.

Cavendish Homecare

Our personal home care services provide the highest quality care and support in the home. We want to support you to maintain your independence and dignity at home, ensuring you always feel comfortable and safe.

Whilst providing care of a sensitive nature our Carers consider your individual choices. Maintaining your self-esteem is the most important thing to us when providing our personal care services.

We can assist you with (but not limited to):

• Applying creams
• Support with repositioning in bed
• Stretching and improving flexibility
• Dressing and getting ready for bed
• Applying make-up, and hair care
• Changing continence pads
• Assistance in shaving
• Bathing and showering, including bed-baths
• Helping you to the toilet, including using a commode or bedpan
• Oral hygiene

Your care requirements are tailored to your personal needs and routine, so you have the continuation of your normal schedule.