Affordable Home Safety Tips for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) symptoms like joint swelling, pain, or fatigue can make ordinary tasks more challenging. Climbing the stairs, opening a jar, and putting on your pajama bottoms aren’t the kind of movements you take for granted anymore, especially during an RA flare.

Here’s a room-by-room look at RA home modifications and affordable assistive devices that can make life easier and safer with RA.

Kitchen Tips for RA

The kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating. Use these smart adaptations designed to make it easier to open cupboards and cans, close containers, lift bags, and maneuver while cooking.

• Pick low-maintenance pans. Pans with a nonstick surface require less scrubbing to clean. Pans with double handles are easier to lift and move in and out of the oven or on and off the stovetop.
• Sit when possible. Standing at the counter to prep can be tiresome and put unnecessary stress on your joints. Try sitting on a stool while you work in the kitchen.
• Drip-dry your dishes. For cookware that isn’t dishwasher safe, or if you don’t have a dishwasher, use a dish rack to let plates, pots, and pans air-dry instead of drying them with towels. You’ll conserve your energy this way.
• Use electronic tools. Many kitchen gadgets can ease otherwise manual tasks. For example, an electric can opener takes the pressure off your thumbs, while a food processor or mandolin can help with chopping and slicing.
• Try slide-out shelves. Consider installing shelves that slide out so you don’t have to reach far inside cabinets for the items you need. A freestanding lazy Susan is a budget-friendly alternative that spins items toward you.
• Avoid carrying heavy items. A serving cart on wheels can help you bring food to the table or dishes from the table to the dishwasher. Look for a used cart online if new ones are too pricey.

Bathroom Tips for RA

• Add nonslip mats. Place rugs with rubber or nonskid backings as necessary, such as just outside your shower. Be sure to install nonskid strips on your bath or shower floor, too.
• Raise your toilet seat. You don’t have to get a new toilet to benefit from a more accessible commode. Instead, try adding a raised toilet seat to your existing lavatory.
• Install grab bars. Placing thick metal or plastic rails on the wall near the toilet and in the shower can give you a solid support to reach for if needed.
• Use a shower chair. These can help take pressure off your knees and hips so you stay stable in the shower. If you’re short on space, consider a wall-mounted option that folds up when not in use.

Living Area Tips for RA

A living room that’s warm and inviting can make all the difference to your state of mind. Take these sensible steps to create a welcoming space that’s also set up for safety.

• Add lighting. Simply incorporating more lamps can help brighten any dark areas. Be sure your stairs are well lit; changes in elevation can be tricky to navigate if you can’t see them well.
• Use firm cushions. If you have RA, you might find it harder to get out of soft and cushy chairs. Adding a wheelchair pad on top or a piece of plywood under your couch cushions can help increase firmness.
• Guard against tripping hazards. Give your living space a good inspection. Clear all cords from walking paths, and move or get rid of any area rugs that could be slippery and unstable.

Bedroom Tips for RA

In an ideal world, your bedroom is a safe refuge from the world — a place where deep and restorative rest can occur. Sound sleep is also vital to managing your RA. These adjustments and upgrades can help ensure sound slumber.

• Find the right mattress. Experts recommend a mattress that balances pressure relief and support for people with RA.

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   Shop in-person at a store or look online for a mattress brand with a trial period to ensure it’s the right fit for you.
• Size up your sheets. Tugging fitted sheets into place isn’t easy for anyone. Going one size larger can help increase the slack. You can also use a long-handled wooden spoon or utensil to tuck top sheets under the mattress.
• Get dressed with ease. Large zipper pulls, buttoning aids, and Velcro fasteners can make it easier and safer to get dressed. Try sitting on the edge of the bed or chair to put on socks and shoes. Extended shoe horns can help keep you from bending and reaching.

General House Tips for RA

• Swap doorknobs for levers. Knobs can be difficult to turn if you have RA. Install lever handles to make bedroom and closet doors easier to open and close. Lever handles for the kitchen and bathroom faucets can help, too.
• Buy duplicates. If you live in a multistory space, having duplicate sets of common household items — such as vacuums, cleaning supplies, and small electronics — saves you from having to lug stuff up and down stairs.
• Make your space work for you. Depending on the size of your home, it might make sense to rearrange household items for convenience. For example, consider getting a mini fridge for your bedroom if your medicine needs to be refrigerated or you need to take it with food. It’ll save you trips to the kitchen.

To identify home products likely to make your life safer and easier, no matter which part of the house you’re in, look for items marked with the Arthritis Foundation’s Ease of Use seal.

The Takeaway

• Rheumatoid arthritis can make everyday activities challenging, but modifying your home with simple, affordable changes can help ease daily tasks and improve your safety.
• Consider using assistive devices like electric can openers in the kitchen, grab bars in the bathroom, and proper lighting in living areas to make movements more manageable.
• Consult with your healthcare provider or an occupational therapist for recommendations that are best for you and your home.