Living with arthritis can make even simple daily tasks challenging due to stiff fingers, sore wrists, and aching knees and hips. While medications, physical therapy, and dietary changes play an important role in managing symptoms, the right tools can also make a significant difference. These tools may not be flashy or overly exciting, but they can help you preserve your independence and improve your quality of life. One of the most common areas of degeneration in arthritis is the spot where the thumb meets the wrist at the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint. This joint breakdown can cause significant pain. The Velpeau Thumb Stabilizer is specifically designed to address pain caused by arthritis. It features an octopus-shaped splint design that helps stabilize the first CMC joint, while the sponge fill-in provides comfort and flexibility in the wrist. Available for $19 at Amazon. Ease of Use Certified by the Arthritis Foundation, IMAK Compression Arthritis Gloves are one of the best products for arthritis of the hands. These soft, breathable gloves increase circulation, which can help reduce pain. They feature an open fingertip design, allowing you to feel and grip without issue. While there are mixed reviews on fit, these gloves are overall well-received with over 2,555 5-star reviews on Amazon. Available for $19 at Amazon and $20 at Target. Inga Juzysta, an in-home provider and owner of Always Best Care Senior Services, is a big fan of rubber-coated gardening gloves for adding extra grip strength. These gloves come in three sizes and a variety of colors and are made from breathable polyester, durable latex, and reinforced fingertips. They're both comfortable and protective. Available for $14 at Amazon. Another tool that Juzysta says is surprisingly helpful is foam hair rollers. Simply slip a roller onto the ends of silverware or other small objects that you struggle to grip due to arthritis. These foam rollers provide extra cushioning and support, making it easier to grip and use these items without causing further discomfort or pain. While they may not be a traditional solution for arthritis, they are a simple and effective tool that can help you maintain your independence in daily tasks.
