8 Home Organization Tips for People With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Medically Reviewed By William C. Lloyd III, MD, FACS
-
Create an RA-Friendly SpaceYour home is supposed to be a refuge, a place to relax with family and loved ones. But when you have rheumatoid arthritis (RA), navigating around your home and using certain household objects can be challenging or painful. These eight tips will make your home work for you—so you can get back to doing what matters most.
-
1. Buy MultiplesIf you live in a multistory home, keep a stash of cleaning supplies on each floor. This will help you avoid lugging cleaning products up and down stairs. Consider doing the same for other cleaning tools, such as vacuum cleaners.
-
-
2. Contain the ClutterSmall areas of clutter can easily become mountains of stuff if they’re not contained. Assess your home and identify clutter hotspots. Place a decorative container where you tend to empty your pockets. Stash bills and mail in a folder. Designate a place for your keys and cell phone.
-
3. Get OrganizedTake a look at items you frequently use and where you keep them. Then, reorganize in ways that make sense for you. If there’s an item you often use in your living room, but it’s stored in your bedroom, move it to your living room so it’s easier to access.
-
4. Try a CartYou can also keep items you frequently use, such as a laptop, on a cart with wheels and move it from room to room as needed.
-
5. Stock Up On OpenersWhether opening medication bottles or food containers, RA can make these tasks difficult and painful. Ask your pharmacist to dispense your medications in easy-open bottles, Also, use openers that make the job easier. For example, the Dycem Bottle Opener helps remove childproof tops. A nutcracker or pliers with a long handle can help loosen bottle caps.
-
-
6. Reach HigherMedical supply stores sell a tool called a reacher. It can help you grab items located high up. Keep one handy in your home to reach items easily when no one is around to help. If you find yourself frequently using the reacher to perform the same task, consider moving the object to a more convenient location.
-
7. Create a Safer SpaceHaving arthritis can increase your risk of falls. Look around your home and get rid of anything that can cause you to trip. Pick up clutter on the floor. If you have throw rugs, make sure they’re secured to the floor. Use nonslip mats in showers and bathtubs.
-
8. Make Over Your KitchenThere are countless tools and assistive devices available to make meal prep easier on your hands. Replace your troublesome gadgets with those that make your life easier. Instead of slicing bagels with a knife, use a bagel slicer. Look for pots and pans with two handles instead of one. Use magnetic measuring cups and spoons that stick together so they’re easier to find in crowded drawers.
8 Home Organization Tips for People With Rheumatoid Arthritis