Today’s post is “Home Fixes Your Joints Will Thank You For.” If you’re like me, you may be tired, and your joints feel like they’re on fire. Yes, technically, you should keep things tidy, but it is so easy to just sling clothes over a chair, kick carpet debris under the bed, and pile dishes in the sink to clean up later.
I always set a goal to get my office/bedroom in order before I go to bed, but there are times I can’t get up from the chair. After my accident last year, I now appreciate keeping things picked up out of harm’s way.
Last year, I was in my computer chair, and I fell asleep. I am not sure of the exact details, but the next thing I remember is waking up with blood dripping on the carpet and off my face.
I had fallen face-first on my exercise bike seat and broken my nose, not to mention quite a few bumps and bruises. The exercise bike should have been pushed to the other side of the room.
This made me think about how you can adapt your house to make it a safer space. Of course, finances may be a problem, so you may not be able to do any major renovations. However, even minor renovations that promote independence and minimize pain can be beneficial.
Use a Night Light
I appreciate a night light because I tend to get up very early and don’t like turning on my regular bedroom light.
Use a wall-plugged night light. Night lights are always a good choice for bathrooms, bedrooms, and hallways. These automatic LED night lights are small, low-maintenance, and bright.
Remove Tripping Hazards
One thing I could improve on is picking up clutter from my bedroom floor. Repair loose carpet and put pet bowls, trailing cables, or small furniture out of the way.
Install Grab Bars
A grab bar installed near the toilet provides support for people who have trouble sitting down or standing up. It’s beneficial for those with arthritis.
As an added bonus, they can be height-adjusted and can be installed on a permanent or temporary basis.
Grab bars can also be installed in the shower or bath on any surface. It provides the extra stability and support you need for better mobility.
Enjoy a Walk-In Tub
According to the Arthritis Foundation, “A Safe Step Walk-In Tub has only a 4-inch step up, so these walk-in tubs require very little strength and effort to enter.”
This tub sounds like an absolute dream. Wider doors, easy-to-reach handles, and a non-slip seat. Who doesn’t like that?
Safe Step Tubs include dual hydro massage and air bubble jets that target sore muscles and joints in your legs and back. Installation is included, along with excellent service and a lifetime warranty.
Time to kiss those high spa prices goodbye, and have your treatment in the comfort of your own home.
Create An Arthritis-Friendly Kitchen
I don’t cook nearly as much as I used to because I can’t stand as long, and the pots and pans seem so heavy. It would be nice to cook again, because I really enjoy creating new dishes.
Magnetic Measuring Cups and Spoons
Do you find yourself rummaging through drawers trying to find the measuring cups and spoons? I can raise my hand. After a few minutes and more than a few curse words, I am ready to hit the store and buy replacements.
Magnetic measuring cups and spoons stay nested when stored and stick to any metal surface, such as your oven, for convenient access. I am ordering these TODAY!
Painful Hands from Stirring
This was an easy fix for me. A fork works well for stirring up your favorite dishes and doesn’t kill your hands in the process.
Using adaptive equipment can also help reduce painful hands. Use Longer handles to increase leverage, no-slip handles with increased diameter, handles that let you keep your arm in a neutral (thumbs-up) position, and tools or equipment that do the work for you.
Repair Uneven Sidewalk
A few weeks ago, I slipped on my husband Mark’s sandals to check the mail. As I went up the walk to check the front door for packages, I fell forward and skinned my knee and arms on the concrete.
An uneven area on a sidewalk is a real trip hazard. Look for visible cracks, gaps, shifts, or breaks in the surface.
If you don’t mind getting your hands dirty, you can fix it yourself, or if you’re like me, call a landscaping professional.
Final Thoughts
There are so many more tips and tricks for making your home a safe space. Try these tips to get started, and you’ll learn more through trial and error.
A home is meant to be enjoyed, and that means keeping you safe.
