People with various chronic diseases increasingly use assistive devices in their daily lives. Those who have arthritis may also find them to be of great help. Even with the finest care, arthritis can cause an individual to become less mobile. That’s why taking medication and exercising regularly isn’t the end of a healthy treatment plan. If someone begins to struggle with daily tasks, there are great tools and machines available. Assistive devices for arthritis can help people with such a problem live more comfortably.
These could be brand-new additions to the house or upgrades to existing items. The patients can still put on clothes, clean, take a bath, and move about more easily with the help of these basic gadgets. Let’s explore some of the useful devices; we’ll also share some valuable tips to reduce falls for arthritis patients.
Best Choice of Assistive Devices for Arthritis to Enhance Comfort
Assistive devices such as handrails, toilet risers, and shower chairs make life easier for people with arthritis. By making daily tasks simpler, these assistive gadgets minimize joint strain. These simple-to-use, comfortable tools offer remarkable support to live everyday life.
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Handrails
People with arthritis may experience tiredness and unstable balance as symptoms. A useful plan is to place handrails in the shower, bathtub, or next to the toilet. They are far more durable than standard towel bars. Using handrails reduces the chance of falling and offers the person stability and support to move around the bathroom securely.
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Toilet Riser
For an arthritis patient to get up from the toilet, bending at the knee and hip might be difficult and exhausting. The toilet riser aids in making it easier to get on and off the toilet. It also decreases the pressure on the knees and hip joints. Additionally, some toilet risers have handles to improve stability and safety, which reduces the chance of falling even more.
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Shower Chair
A shower chair is one of the most important bathroom accessories to reduce the risk of slipping and falling while taking a shower. For someone with arthritis pain or limited movement, being able to sit down during a shower makes it a lot more comfortable and enjoyable.
People relax while washing their bodies and hair because the support will relieve strain from weak knees and hips and keep them stable. Shower chair options also include wall-mounted fold-up chairs, portable stools, and chairs with wheels that are simple to move about as needed.
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Walk In Tub
A walk-in tub is a bathtub with an easily accessible, watertight door. The door offers easy operation for the user, so getting in and out of the tub becomes simple. The tub’s base is non-slip to ensure those with unstable balance feel secure using it. For individuals with restricted mobility, a walk-in tub with seats might be an ideal luxurious bathing option.
Bath assistance may not be enough if you enjoy lengthy, warm, soothing baths. Also, because of arthritis, you may find getting in and out of the water too difficult. A walk-in tub can be the answer if you find yourself in need of help but still want to enjoy taking baths on your own, even with arthritis.
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Stair Lifts
Installing stair lifts and home elevators can help people with mobility issues caused by arthritis move around the house more easily between different floors. It’s an incredibly beneficial tool for people who suffer from joint pain due to arthritis. With the help of this mechanical device, individuals can securely transfer between floors, minimizing the chance of any accident.
The Benefits of Assistive Devices for Arthritis
Apart from these advanced devices, even grabbers and canes can greatly support people with arthritis who need assistance with daily tasks. From enhanced safety to a greater sense of independence, the benefits of any of these gadgets are endless.
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A Greater Degree of Independence
The ability to maintain one’s independence is arguably the most significant advantage of assistive technology. With the right support devices, people with arthritis-related disabilities may be able to perform tasks that would otherwise be difficult or impossible. This ability helps them regain more freedom and give them a sense of empowerment.
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Reduction of Pain
One of the most significant benefits of assistive devices for arthritis is their ability to effectively reduce pain. Arthritis often brings about discomfort and limited mobility, impacting everyday tasks and overall quality of life. By providing additional support and facilitating smoother movements, these devices help individuals with arthritis manage their symptoms more effectively, enabling them to engage in daily activities with greater comfort and independence.
Medical mattresses, chairs, and cushions are some of the items that might offer comfort and pain relief, particularly after extended durations of sitting or sleeping.
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Increased Safety
Safety is a top priority in the creation of many assistive tools. It’s evident that our elderly close ones are more vulnerable to injury. These gadgets can be especially helpful in preventing falls and accidents among older persons with arthritis.
Installing ramps at entrances or stairs in bathrooms is an example of making a house safer and more accessible for people with arthritis.
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Higher Standard of Living
It’s important to realize how much access the patients have to different parts of the home and how easily they are performing tasks. Helpful gadgets improve people’s standard of living by simplifying their movement and daily duties. They can help people keep their independence while participating in activities they like.
Tips to Reducing Falls for the Arthritis Patients
Someone with arthritis needs to avoid falls. Install handrails, use non-slip mats, and keep floors clutter-free. To increase strength and balance, work out frequently. You should always seek guidance from a medical practitioner for specific recommendations. Check the suggestions below for more help.
- Make sure the floors are always clean and dry.
- Remove any throw rugs, clutter, cords, or other items that may block the person’s line of travel.
- Ensure that the inside and outside of the house have enough brightness. When necessary, install night lights so the person can see well when moving from their bedroom to the kitchen, bathroom and any other places they might use at night.
- Stay away from ladders. A wide-base, sturdy step stool with handrails is a far safer option when necessary.
- Install non-slip mats or strips in front of the kitchen sink, the bathtub, the shower and any other area that might be more vulnerable to spills or water splashes.
Conclusion
Assistive devices for arthritis are like friendly companions that help people with additional support through their day to day lives. These devices, which range from handrails to stair lifts, are incredible products that can improve an arthritis patient’s standard of living. They free people from the burden of joint discomfort to remain independent.
Recall that using assistive technology is a wise decision towards living a more comfortable life rather than a show of weakness. Call Before You Fall offers the ideal set of resources, transforming life’s stage into a more secure and self-sufficient performance. We provide the right assistive devices you require to continue taking confident steps forward. Reach out to us today!
