If you have ankylosing spondylitis, you probably know how difficult it can be to do your daily tasks. When you get out of bed in the morning, your back is stiff, you have difficulty bending, and even doing small tasks can be unbearable. How great would it be to get a little help at times like these? That's what we're going to talk about today. These will help you reduce the pressure on your joints and make it easier for you to do your work efficiently.
Assistive tools that make everyday life easier
Simply put, these are little tricks that make your life easier. You may not have heard of them before, but you'd be surprised at how much of a difference they can make to your day. Let's take a look at what they are.
| Equipment type | How can I help? |
|---|---|
| Handrails & Walking Aids | Installing handrails around the home, especially in the bathroom, can reduce the risk of falls. Using a walker or cane can reduce the load on joints such as the hips, knees, and ankles. |
| Raised Seats & Cushions | It reduces back and hip pain when getting up from a chair or toilet. A raised toilet seat is the best solution for this. |
| Reachers | These help you easily pick up something from above or on the floor without the pain of bending your back or reaching out. |
| Zipper Pulls & Button Aids | These little devices are a great help for those who have difficulty zipping and buttoning clothes due to joint pain in their fingers. |
| Grips | Putting these on things like spoons, doorknobs, and bottle caps makes them easier to grip and reduces pressure on the joints of the hand. |
| Cooking Devices | Things like blenders, food processors, and electric can openers make kitchen work much easier. |
Let's talk a little more about this device.
Are crutches and walking aids really important?
Imagine what kind of danger you could face if you lose your balance when you go to the bathroom and try to get out of the bathtub or get up from the toilet. A handrail is like your best friend who protects you at times like this. Therefore, it is very important to install handrails on the walls so that you can hold on to them when moving around the bathroom, near the toilet, and around the house.
Also, if you have difficulty walking, don't be shy about using a walker or cane. These help reduce the amount of weight your body puts on your hips, knees, and ankles. This can help reduce pain and reduce the risk of falls.
Braces and Splints
Sometimes your doctor may recommend a brace or splint for a specific joint. These are not things you can buy on your own. Your doctor will measure your joint and fit it to fit your exact size. The main purpose of these is to provide support to the joint, while minimizing damage and reducing pain. So, talk to your doctor about this.
Remember, you're not using these devices because you're weak. You're using them to maintain your independence, reduce pain, and enjoy more of your life.
What if equipment alone is not enough? Seek professional help
Even with all these devices, there may be times when you need more help. At such times, you can get the help of a professional caregiver. They will come to help you with your chores for a few hours a day. Perhaps if you have a family caregiver who takes care of you, this can be a great help for them too.
What does a home health aide help with?
Someone with this type of professional training can help you with many of your daily tasks. For example:
- Bathing and cleaning
- Dressing
- Eating
- Cooking
- Helping to go to the toilet
- Minor household cleaning
- Going to the store to get groceries
- Reminders about your medications and doctor appointments
There are different levels of these services. Home health aides can provide basic medical care. Personal care aides usually help with things like bathing, dressing, and household chores.
Don't think, "If someone helps me, I'm a burden to others." Asking for help is a sign of strength. It shows that you care about your health and well-being.
How do you find someone like this?
Your doctor can be the best guide for this. Your doctor will be able to provide information about organizations or individuals in your area that provide such services. You can then meet with them, explain what help you need, find out about their qualifications and experience, and discuss costs and make a plan.
Take-Home Message
- Living with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) can be challenging, but there are many tools and methods that can make your life easier.
- Never hesitate to use simple devices like handrails, high chairs, and reachers. These will increase your independence and protect you from accidents.
- If you need a specialized medical device, such as a brace, be sure to talk to your doctor before making a decision.
- If equipment alone isn't enough, consider seeking the help of a professional caregiver. Discuss this openly with your doctor and family.
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