Joint damage, pain, stiffness, and fatigue caused by arthritis can interfere with many daily activities.
Ordinary activities can be difficult to perform.
Opening a carton of milkTurning the car ignition key
Reaching something on the top shelf
Buttoning a shirt
Brushing your hair
Getting up from a low seat
Not a problem for most people. But for someone with severely limiting arthritis these easy tasks can become challenging and frustrating. Joint damage, pain, stiffness, and fatigue caused by arthritis can make everyday, ordinary activities difficult to perform.
Assistive devices can help with limitations
Assistive devices are available which can help ease the difficulties caused by arthritis. Assistive devices can range from simple tools or gadgets to motorized equipment. Assistive devices can help those with a physical challenges overcome many limitations imposed by their condition. Assistive devices are often used to help circumvent a person's limitations by either changing their environment or serving as an extension of their body. An occupational therapist can also be consulted also for suggestions regarding any special needs.
Assistive devices can help with:
- joint protection
- joint preservation
- energy conservation
- pain relief
Maintain your independence
The ultimate goal of using assistive devices is to achieve better function and maintain independence.
Assistive devices exist which can alleviate problems with:
- grasping
- holding
- dressing
- reaching
- carrying
- sitting
- standing
- climbing stairs
- walking
- driving
Online resources for assistive devices
A compilation of some of the best online resources for assistive devices for people with disabilities follows, many sites offer free catalogs.
- Ableware
- Active Forever
- Aids For Arthritis
- AD-AS
- Comfort House
- Dynamic Living
- Flaghouse
- Life With Ease
- Majors Medical Supply
- Maxi Aids
- Medmall Online
- Mail Order Medical Supply (MOMS)
- Sammons Preston
- The Boulevard
