When I was in my 30’s and worked in food service, I liked all the cleaning jobs. Mopping the floors, running the dishwasher, cleaning, and setting tables were things I volunteered to do.Now that I am 72, just the thought of doing housework gives me a migraine. Lugging a heavy vacuum from room to room, mopping floors, and of course, dusting and polishing all the furniture, leaves me feeling like a limp dishrag by the time I am finished.
It’s even more difficult when you have arthritis. My joints are painful enough, and I find I skip over important areas to sit down and finish the whole ordeal.
Does this sound like you? Very few people enjoy housework, but with some modifications and adjustments, it can make the job a lot easier:
Use Lightweight and Ergonomic Tools
Start with a vacuum cleaner. There are several ergonomic, lightweight, or self-propelled vacuum cleaners. One favorite is the iRobot Roomba. This vacuum propels itself and spends more time in dirtier areas. It avoids problem areas such as stairs and other obstacles. One drawback is that you may have to pay a higher price. Only you can decide if it is worth it.
What is the thing I hate most about mopping? That’s right. Wringing out the mop. Now that I don’t have as much power in my hands, it is exceptionally difficult.
This mop bucket features hands-free wringing. The patented triangle mop head can rotate 360 degrees. It can reach and clean deep into corners, under furniture, alongside baseboards, and between tiles. Does not require charging at all! You push the pedal to create the spin action.
The telescopic handle extends up to 48 inches, so anyone can mop comfortably without bending over!
It seems like no matter how many times I dust my office, there is always more dusting to do. I have a bookcase, which requires some climbing if you want to dust the top shelf.
This duster with an extension pole helps you reach those high places without climbing on a stool. Now you can clean ceiling fans, the area above the stove, the area on top of the refrigerator, and window blinds.
The pole is lightweight and extendable from 30 inches to 100 inches.
Break Up Housework Tasks
Breaking up housework tasks into smaller, manageable chunks can make it easier to complete them without feeling overwhelmed. For example, instead of cleaning the entire house in one day, try breaking it up into smaller tasks over several days. This can help you conserve your energy and reduce your arthritis pain.
Move Heavy Objects on a Cart or Trolley
If you need to move heavy objects, such as laundry baskets or cleaning supplies, consider using carts or trolleys to make it easier. This is especially important if you have problems with balance or mobility.
Ask For Help
Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Household tasks can be challenging for anyone, but they can be particularly difficult for those with arthritis. If you have family members or friends who are willing to help out, don’t be afraid to ask.
Hire a Housekeeper
My joint pain just got so bad that I finally hired a housekeeper. Now, instead of bending over the bed to change sheets, I just let the housekeeper take off the dirty sheets and put on the clean ones.
I have my floors mopped, the vacuuming done, and both bathrooms cleaned. Now, I can enjoy a clean house, and to me, it is worth the expense.
I know not everyone can afford a housekeeper, but we found ours on this site. If you don’t need deep cleaning, you can hire someone much more cheaply.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, arthritis can make housework more challenging, but it doesn’t have to be impossible. Try these tips and see what works for you. Don’t let arthritis prevent you from enjoying a clean and tidy house.
