Senior Living News

Roughly 50% of women and 25% of men will develop osteoarthritis of their hands before the age of 85. If you suffer from arthritis in your fingers, you know how the pain and stiffness can get in the way of your daily activities. The good news is that lifestyle changes could help reduce your discomfort. Read on to discover some simple things you can do for hand arthritis.

1. Exercise Your Joints

When dealing with arthritis pain, you may feel inclined to rest your hands as much as possible. However, a lack of movement may actually worsen the problem. Often, medical providers recommend gentle hand exercises to strengthen the muscles and connective tissues in the hands. Try the following hand exercises for arthritis:

• Thumb stretch: Reach your thumb across your palm, stretching as far as you can toward your pinky. Hold for a few seconds.
• Knuckle bend: Point your fingers straight up toward the ceiling and then bend them at the middle joints, keeping them as straight as possible.
• Fist extension: Make a tight fist with your thumb over your fingers. Sweep your thumb away and stretch your fingers upwards as far as they can go.
• Finger curls. Extend your fingers toward the ceiling and curve your thumb in slightly toward your palm. Touch the tip of your index finger to your thumb and then straighten it. Repeat with your other three fingers.

2. Stop Smoking

Here’s another reason to kick the habit: The toxins in cigarette smoke can damage bones, connective tissues and cartilage, making arthritis worse. Smoking can also interfere with the healing process, so it may take longer for arthritis treatments to work or for you to recover after hand surgery.

3. Take Breaks for Moist Heat

When arthritis gets in your way, take a time out and treat yourself to the soothing benefits of moist heat. Put a damp washcloth in a freezer bag in the microwave for 1 minute and hold it against your hand. You can also submerge your hand in a bowl of warm water or soak it in a warm bath. Listen to your body and give your hands breaks when you need them.

4. Use Kitchen Gadgets

Arthritis doesn’t have to mean giving up nutritious meals in favor of processed and junk foods. With the right tools and gadgets, you can prepare all your favorite recipes more comfortably. Small appliances like can openers and food processors can reduce the need to use your hands. Open jars with a rubber opener, and look for utensils that have cushioned grips that are more comfortable to hold.

5. Give Yourself a Helping Hand When Dressing

Managing clothing fasteners can be difficult when you have arthritis. However, you can still wear everything in your wardrobe with the help of arthritis aids. Zipper pulls and button fasteners can help you get dressed on your own with less pain and struggle.

6. Look for Ergonomic Options

Because many people with arthritis struggle with grooming tasks, companies now offer solutions specifically for those with limited finger mobility. Electric toothbrushes can simplify toothbrushing and denture care, and you can use a water pick instead of floss to clean in between your teeth. Ergonomically designed nail clippers, hairbrushes, combs and other grooming aids can help you maintain your appearance with less pain.

7. Switch to Levers

Knobs that you have to twist can be difficult to operate if you have hand arthritis. Levers are often easier to use because they only require a push or a pull. Consider replacing interior door knobs and handles on your sinks, shower and tub with levers so you can wash your hands, clean up the dishes, fill the kettle, bathe and perform other tasks with greater ease.

8. Try Voice Commands

Many smartphones, tablets and cable TV remotes now give you the option to speak instructions. Using this feature can make it possible for you to make calls, send texts, look up websites and change channels without having to push a single button. This is convenient and a great way to spare yourself discomfort if you have hand arthritis.

9. Rely on Devices to Enjoy Hobbies

If arthritis makes it hard to do the things you enjoy, search online to see if assistance aids are available for those activities. Hands-free frames can let you enjoy quilting or embroidery with less pain. There are holders and shufflers you can use while playing cards with friends and family. Arthritis-friendly shears and spades can help you keep your garden growing.

10. Keep Aids in the Car

Make using and caring for your vehicle easier with assistive aids. A large key ring may help you turn the ignition when you’re ready to go somewhere, and gas cap openers can eliminate the twisting before you pump at the service station. Slip on a steering wheel cushion for a more comfortable grip. In Colorado Springs, CO, you can also take advantage of public transportation through the Mountain Metro system.

Talk to Your Medical Provider

If hand arthritis interferes with your day or keeps you up at night, let your medical provider know. You may benefit from oral medications and other treatments that a health care professional can prescribe. If you’re a resident of ViewPointe senior living community, you can take advantage of scheduled transportation services to get you to and from your appointment.