RA Blog Week 2017 Day 2: Tips & Tricks

 

Tips and tricks – What are the ways you have learned to work around the physical difficulties and limitations of your autoimmune condition.

I remember being at one of those home kitchen tools parties years ago and I friend said something about not wanting to buy “gadgets” because that are just junk you don’t need.  I didn’t say anything at the time (while ogling a salad spinner), because everyone around the table pretty much agreed.  It seemed the consensus in the group was that these gadgets were just clutter.  In hindsight, I wish I spoke up because without gadgets, I wouldn’t be able to cook, open things, cut, or do various household tasks independently.  I’m going to post my favorite gadget tips.  I am not endorsing any products.  There are simply items that work for me.  I’m happy to tell you where I purchased these items if you direct message me.

One of my favorite tools is this jar opener.  It opens lidded containers of various sizes so easily.  I’ve tried others, but this one is fool proof.  It hasn’t met a jar or a bottle it couldn’t open.  Honestly, this is my favorite kitchen item.

To shower, I use a shower chair.  Standing while washing/rinsing my hair and shaving my legs is just way too hard after working all day.  This shower chair is a simple fix and makes life a bit easier.  My cats also like to nap on it….

To help with hand swelling, I use compression gloves. I love them and hate the need for them equally.

Cutting can be so hard on my hands.  Especially at Christmas time when I need to wrap presents.  Most of the time, I just use bags to “wrap” presents.  But when I do have to wrap something, I use these adapted scissors.  They require less pressure and thus, my hands don’t hurt as much.

This next tips was an emotional one to get.  I used to work in six elementary schools.  I would drive between buildings throughout the day and often, would have to walk a far distance with heavy bags because there was no parking.  My rheumatologist at the time suggested the parking placard.  I debated for a while until I found out that a janitor at one of the schools was parking in the handicapped spot because he didn’t want his car to get scratched by parking on the street. (GRRRRRRRRRRRR!!!!!!).  I don’t always use my placard but when I grocery shop or have to walk through large buildings it is a life saver.

 

And finally…..my most favorite gadget is my wine bottle opener.  It is so smooth and simple.  It doesn’t stress my hands and isn’t as pricey as some of the automated devices.

These items may be gadgets that clutter my home, but they do make my life much simpler.  I’ve found that investing in tools that make life simpler is something that works for me….plus, I love to shop.  It’s a win, win!!

 

I’m honored to be participating in RA blog week for the third year in a row.  Check out all the other blogs posted on this topic (and others, here: http://radiabetes.com/blog_week17/day2.html