Although my maternal grandmother passed away over 20 years ago, I can still recall the trouble she had with her arthritic hands as she attempted to open a jar of pickles or pry open a can of soup. The everyday utensils she had on hand to complete her tasks were really not conducive to her condition. As such, she usually had to ask one of the grandkids or whoever was present to help her out. We did not mind at all, but I have to put myself in the shoes of those suffering from arthritis. I am sure that they do not want their disease to control their life, nor do they want to be fully dependent on people to help them with everyday tasks. An investigation into this matter led me to some wonderful information on great gift ideas for friends and loved ones with arthritis. These are practical gifts that should give them a new lease on life, if only in a small way, but sometimes the smallest things provide the biggest benefits. If my grandma were still alive today, I am sure she would appreciate some of these great gift ideas to ease the pain and strain of her arthritic condition.
Most everyone these days uses a computer, and the average amount of time each American spends on the computer is two hours a day. When you suffer from arthritis, the mouse you use may not do any favors for your wrist. Opt for an ergonomically-designed mouse that boasts a vertical design, allowing for a more comfortable hand and wrist position. The thumb muscles actually do the clicking.
Is there a cook in your life who suffers from arthritis? While this disease and the kitchen do not always make for a great recipe when combined together, your friend or loved one can renew her enthusiasm for the culinary arts with a special cutting board made with spikes that do the gripping for her, easing the strain on her hand and wrist. Also available are non-slip knives with pressure absorbing handles. It’s almost as of the knife does the cutting on its own!
Most anyone with arthritis will tell you that getting up from a seated position to a standing position after an appreciable amount of time is a challenge, and a painful one at that. Give the gift of a swivel seat cushion that can be used in the car or on a chair for ease in getting up, minimizing the associated pain.
Research has continually proven that heat therapy is a great way to temporarily reduce the pain and swelling of arthritis. The use of a paraffin wax treatment bath for the hands is a great way to provide that comfort. You can purchase one for use at home, or, alternatively, many nail salons offer such a treatment on their menu of services. A more affordable approach to heat therapy is to purchase moist heat pads available at most drug stores or discount retailers.
Jewelry is always a special gift for many women, but those suffering from arthritis probably have a difficult time with clasps and hooks, and even wearing rings can prove to be impossible as fingers swell from the disease. Give your special friend or loved one a jewelry helper’s accessory kit, which includes such unique tools as a bracelet clasp and magnetic clasps.
For the wine lover, why not deliver an automatic wine bottle opener? Why put extra strain on arthritic joints by having to twist the cork? Push a button instead! Instant – and painless – access!
While this list is far from complete, it should be a great start to spark some ideas the next time you want to purchase a gift for someone who is struggling with arthritis. It’s amazing what one simple gesture will do, and think about how good you will feel making someone else feel better!
(Information for this article, as well as links to purchase the referenced product ideas, was found at http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20441914,00.html)