A Little Help Goes a Long Way

Do you ever get the feeling that things were not designed with you in mind? Like, why is the top grocery shelf so high? Who the heck is sealing these pickle jars so tightly in the first place? And is everyone else at work as uncomfortable as I am when I sit all day?

In the words of National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF) fundraiser and volunteer Jesse Lichtenstein, “That’s the world … I’m a dad. I have two kids, and I’m constantly teaching them that life is unfair. The world is unfair.”

Of course, the world should be fair, or at least fairer. It is a worthy goal for all of us to do our part to move in that direction, but in the meantime – while we are grounded here in a reality that is not built with people who have mobility limitations or disabilities in mind – where do you turn for assistance?

What if we could make the little things easier? Opening jars. Navigating the challenges of the office. It would help, right?

We compiled a list of tips and tools – including assistive devices – that might make day-to-day life a little easier for you. The following was created from free NPF Patient Navigation Center resources - available to all folks impacted by psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis (PsA), including caretakers. You can request your own PsA Action Month E-Kit, or contact a Patient Navigator for any other assistance you might need as you navigate life with psoriasis or PsA.

Around the House

• Try a grabber tool for items that are out of reach (and bring it with you to the grocery store).
• When you are seated, use a seat wedge.
• Lessen joint pressure with safety grips in the shower, tub, and other slick areas.
• Tackle cleaning chores with an automatic vacuum cleaner.
• Look for stylish clothing that also has elastic waistbands, zippers big enough to handle, and clasps in the front instead of the back.
• Use a shoehorn and a sock puller.
• Place a chair near the closet to make getting dressed easier.
• Purchase high adjustable seats for your toilets to make sitting and standing easier.
• Give an electronic toothbrush a go to reduce the small, repetitive motion of brushing,

In the Kitchen

• Use an anti-fatigue (padded) mat in front of areas where you often stand, like the sink and stove.
• Keep a kitchen stool handy so you can sit while working at the counter.
• Take advantage of helpful equipment: food processors, countertop choppers, hands-free jar openers, ergonomic knives.
• Put your most frequently used utensils and tools out on the countertop within easy reach.
• Purchase kitchen tools with larger-grip handles.
• Replace heavy pots and pans with lightweight cookware.
• Buy your veggies pre-cut at the store.
• Try a healthy meal kit or delivery service.

At the Office

• Take frequent breaks to stretch and move.
• Place frequently used items or tools within easy reach.
• Try a hands-free headset or earbuds for phone calls.
• Use a voice-to-text program on your computer.
• Invest in an ergonomic chair.
• Support your feet with a footrest.
• Buy a pillow for lumbar support
• Keep your computer monitor at a height that helps you avoid crouching or leaning forward.
• Find writing utensils with large padded grips.
• Ask your supervisor if there is someone who can help you organize your office.

What did we forget? Send us your go-to tool or tip for navigating routine tasks with PsA at editor@psoriasis.org.