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Posted: 2024-09-20T09:45:01Z | Updated: 2024-09-20T09:45:01Z 15 Home Essentials That Make Life Easier If You Have Arthritis | HuffPost Life

15 Home Essentials That Make Life Easier If You Have Arthritis

These little helpers will make a huge difference when it comes to everything from cooking to reading.
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Arthritis affects millions of people , yet theres a dearth of recommendations on exactly what products can help people manage the pain and discomfort it causes. This is especially important since arthritis can permeate into so many aspects of daily life, from sitting and typing to preparing food, reading and more.

 

Thats why weve rounded up home products that reviewers with arthritis vouch for to make life easier and more comfortable and which may even improve your quality of life. Read on for their favorites; we hope it will prove helpful.

 

HuffPost and its publishing partners may receive a commission from some purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently curated by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change.

1
A reviewer-favorite lower back brace with 39,000 5-star ratings

For folks whose arthritis affects their spine, this bestselling belted back brace is worth your time. Reviewers rave about it, saying it provided instant relief for their back pain and calling it a true blessing .

It balances firm support with breathable, flexible mesh, so itll stabilize your back while still feeling comfy and allowing for natural movement. You can also make use of its removable lumbar pad for days when you needed additional support.

As another bonus, the brace is subtle enough to wear under clothes if you prefer, lacking the bulkiness characteristic of many braces.

Its available in three colors and in sizes XS-XXL.

Note: Clip the coupon for an additional discount at checkout.

Promising review: "This belt works !!

I suffer from chronic lower back pain-- Mild scoliosis, arthritis of spine, spinal bone spurs, and a few compressed discs thrown in for good measure.

I have been using this belt for approx 3 weeks for all my outdoor work in my yard--planting, digging , loading into truck--anything which might put stress on my back. It is amazing how much more work I can get done without pain that lays me up for a day or 2 after the work. I have tried it on the golf driving range, and again it is terrific

It is easy to adjust, and after a couple of times wearing it I got to feel what the right amount of compression was.

I have had a couple of other belts, but they just didn't provide the support this Sparthos does. I wish I had found it long ago.

I'm 75 years old. If you want to stay active, and have a cranky back, try this one." JFG

2
A back-saving Arm & Hammer dog poop scooper

If picking up after your dog is aggravating your back, this swiveling rake scooper offers a simple yet impactful solution.

You can capture waste without any bending over by relying on the bin-rake combo, which do all the dirty work for you at ground-level. The bin snaps upward once you're done, too, so the mess won't fall out.

This bestseller has over 67,000 5-star ratings, so it's safe to say reviewers swear by it. In addition to the rake and bin (which extends up to 32 inches), this comes with two heavy duty waste bags.

Promising reviews: "I have arthritis and back issues this is the very best pooper scooper ever! Love it!!!" Deborah J Ash

"I bought the class clamp one last year and it doesn't scoop everything all the time and if you have arthritis, or carpel tunnel it's painful to constantly squeeze for pick up.

This scoop rake and bucket, soooo much better on clean up, on my hands and storage. It clamps together and has a hang point for both. Love it." Pepper Storer

3
Compression gloves for arthritis with 31,000 5-star ratings

These gentle compression gloves are designed to help with pain from arthritis. (Los Angeles-based orthopedic surgeon Dr. Carlos Guanche previously told HuffPost that a similar style may offer some relief from symptoms.) Their contoured, snug fit promises to improve blood flow and comfort, while the breathable, moisture-wicking fabric helps keep your hands cool throughout the day. Fingerless and flexible, they ensure your range of motion won't be compromised, either. Reviewers truly sing their praises ; one reports that the gloves have practically changed their life. They're available in four sizes.

Promising review: "Great find! At 70 years old, I still want to work and arthritis has taken up residence in my hands. These gloves have allowed me to continue on the keyboard with much less discomfort. They provide comfortable support without being too restrictive. Ive tried other gloves, some quickly fall apart or have rough edges that are irritating on the skin. These are the best I've found. Plus, I love being able to buy quality products from a female-owned business!" MSE

4
A bestselling vegetable chopper

This reviewer-favorite food chopper slices and dices fruits and veggies with a simple open and close of its lid, making it easier, more comfortable and less time-consuming to prepare food for folks with arthritis. The design lets you cut food directly into its storage container, too. Besides chopping components, it also includes spiralizer blades, a julienne cutter and a ribbon cutter. Adding to its convenience, it's also dishwasher-safe.

It's earned over 81,000 5-star ratings, and comes in several sizes and colors.

Note: Clip the coupon for an added discount at checkout.

Promising review: "This is my second time to purchase this same product! This little gadget has become an absolute staple in my kitchen. I suffer with arthritis and carpal tunnel in my hands so chopping was extremely painful for me. Now that I have my handy chopper I dont worry about chopping veggies anymore! Cleaning is super easy as well, another plus!" Samanthak1306

5
A highly-rated hands-free reading light with 96,000+ 5-star ratings

This lightweight LED nightlight is designed to be worn around the neck so you can read or work with free hands and it's so lightweight that reviewers say it doesn't aggravate their arthritis. Rechargeable, with bendy, adjustable arms and six brightness levels to choose from, this also works nicely for knitting, crafting, home improvement projects and more. Its available in eight colors and two sizes.

Note: Clip the coupon for an added discount at checkout.

Promising reviews: "Very comfortable, sitting up, reclining or laying down. The lights stay in place where I need them, and they are great if you need to walk around in the dark hands free. Another perk is the light adds zero weight to your books, which can get heavy and cumbersome for people with arthritis" Suzi

"Words cannot describe how much I LOVE this product!!! The 3 brightness levels are awesome & I also love the 3 different light colors, depending on what you are using it for. I purchased mine for reading but I have found that it comes in handy in a variety of ways, especially being a night owl and the only one up at night. I was worried about having anything hanging around my neck because I have arthritis and pinched nerves, but this light truly is lightweight like described. I forget sometimes that I even have it on! Definitely one of the best purchases I've ever made!" Amy Brackins

6
A bestselling electric can opener with over 71,000 5-star ratings

This Kitchen Mama can opener was created specifically to help a family member who was having a difficult time in the kitchen due to arthritis in her hands. It's designed to automatically open cans with two taps of a button completely hands-free leaving can edges smooth and free of sharp edges. Reviewers with arthritis and difficulties gripping call it a "gem ." Available in four colors, it requires four AA batteries .

Promising review: "This can opener is great because it really does work. Hands free. I can no longer use a hand crank one because of arthritis. Electric ones are too hard to clean. This Kitchen Mama can opener works by placing it on top of the can and pressing the button. It turns itself off when it is finished. I've given this as a gift...it was perfect." ali

7
A highly-rated remote control page turner for Kindles and iPads

Reading on Kindles and iPads is great (did you ever think youd be able to access hundreds of titles all in one little object?). Yet it can still get difficult to hold the tablet over a long period of time, or to tap, tap and swipe at the screen when it's time to turn the page.

This remote control page turner solves this issue so each page can be turned easily and conveniently. It may sound simple, its actually quite impactful: Numerous reviewers with arthritis testify that this tiny gadget is a true game-changer, allowing them to sit or lie down comfortably while they read without having to reposition to tap at the screen.

You can also grab it in cute colors, too, like pink , blue and green .

Note: Clip the coupon for an added discount at checkout.

Promising review: "I've been praying for something like this for years. I have Rheumatoid Arthritis and my hands have really poor circulation so they are cold a lot. So now with my kindle I can keep my hands under my electric blanket and read and still turn the pages. It works so well." aflutterby88

8
The Everlasting Comfort desk chair seat cushion with over 90,000 5-star ratings

Made of high density memory foam, this bestselling ergonomic seat cushion promises to help relieve pain in your tailbone, legs and hips while supporting your posture. Plus, It's conveniently portable, so you can carry it to the car, couch or on the plane and use it wherever you go. The cover is machine-washable, and it's available in five colors and a gel-infused version .

Promising review: "First let me say Im not even in my 40s yet and I already have 2 bulging discs and arthritis and severe stenosis from 10 years of a desk job. I have tried everything! I was talking otc pain medicine every 4 hours, using a tens machine, going to chiro and ortho, spending money on pain creams and desk chairs and standing desks. I read all of the reviews and saw that most everyone talked about lower back pain but I have neck and mid back pain so I was worried this would be more wasted money but I was desperate. Let me just say that this cushion has changed my quality of work/life! I am only taking medicine twice a day now and I can finish my work and get off and still feel good enough to do my house work as well. Its a life saver and who wouldve thought that a simple seat cushion would be the solution! Try it, you wont be sorry!" T.Rodgers

9
A handy under-cabinet jar opener with over 21,000 5-star ratings

This practical one-handed jar opener is designed to open tight jars that can be difficult to access for anyone, but in particular for folks with arthritis. A bestseller, its non-slip grip accommodates lids of any size and its durable material ensures it has the strength to handle even factory-sealed lids.

Promising review: "Purchased the jar opener because with arthritis, tendinitis, it is very hard to hold onto a jar and try to open it when you have no strength anymore. Very easy to install under cabinet. Clear instructions help with placement. I like that it not only has adhesive stick but also comes with little screws to secure it to under the cabinet. Yes there are sharp teeth to watch out for, but that adds to how easy it is to open a jar. The teeth grip onto the jar lid, so all you do is hold the middle of the jar and twist. So much easier to have both hands on the jar. When installed under the cabinet, you barely see it. It sits flush with the cabinet. I give it 5 STARS." Kathy Bartholomew

10
An anti-fatigue mat for standing desks and beyond, with over 28,000 5-star ratings

This thick ergonomic floor mat can help relieve pressure on the spine, knees and joints thanks to its cushy foam core. For those who spend long days on their feet, the comfort mat promises to help reduce pain from arthritis and fatigue. It's available in four sizes and various colors, plus in packs of two.

Promising reviews: "I have had many anti fatigue mats as I have arthritis, but I can say that the Sky Solutions mats are the best ones I have ever had. So comfortable, lightweight, and blend very well with my home colors." Interested researcher

"As I have arthritis in my feet and knees, I have been looking for a mat for relief in front of my stove and cooking area. I wanted a 3/4 in mat and finally chose this one. I'm SO happy. I can really tell a difference! So soft and spongy, but supportive. Love the length! Now I need a smaller one for in front of my sink. Would love to try a one inch!" Denise Bowen

11
Logitech's vertical ergonomic mouse

This ergonomic version of a standard mouse can provide a more natural posture for your hand (57 degrees high, to be exact), which elevates your wrist and aligns your forearm for a more comfortable desk experience that won't aggravate arthritis and wrist pain. Quiet and wireless, it's available in three colors and in right- or left-handed styles.

Promising review:
"I really needed this. I have arthritis in my hand and hours of working on the computer and the mouse were causing me issues. I did a lot of research on ergonomic mice, and this one look like it fit all my check boxes. I was a little concerned that it would be weird to use a mouse like this after 40 years of a regular flat mouse on the mouse pad, but surprisingly it was easier than I thought and I had no problems transitioning to this vertical ergonomic mouse. It feels totally natural. I highly recommend this." D. Bowien

12
A popular, convenient electric lighter

Another bestseller, this handy rechargeable electric lighter is ideal for anyone having trouble sparking regular or disposable lighters. It's flameless, intuitive to use and easy to charge. Plus, it's wind- and splash-proof so it can keep up with indoor or outdoor activities. It comes in multiple colors so you can match it to your personality.

Promising review: "I was definitely buying this with the expectation that it would not work, but after struggling with regular lighters because of years of arthritis, I had to give it a shot. This definitely lights candles, albeit slowly, charges quickly via usbc, and holds the charge pretty well. The current does have a slightly obnoxious high-pitch noise I didn't consider when purchasing but it's a small price to pay. There's a safety switch that has to be flipped to turn it on, and it times out to prevent overheating. It also came with a slip for a 1 year warranty. If this lasts even 6 months it is well worth the cost, and I will be buying again." Tay

13
An under-desk foot rest with 20,000 5-star ratings to help ease fatigue and align your spine

Made with cooling memory foam, this soft yet sturdy ergonomic foot rest is designed to support your lower back, knees and legs as you sit, relieving pressure from inflamed joints or arthritis. Available in two colors, it can also help your posture and you can even use it as a foot rocker by turning it over.

Promising review: "I have psoriatic arthritis and struggle with hip/lumbar pain & occasional plantar fasciitis. This foot rest is SO comfortable and feels like a luxury mattress for my feet. The memory foam is firm enough to keep you supported & aligned, but cushioned enough for all day comfort. Don't spend more money on something overpriced from Sharper Image- this product is legit." AG

14
The Waterpik Aquarius flosser, with a whopping 109,000+ 5-star ratings

This reviewer-favorite dental flosser uses water to clean between all the crooks and crevices in your teeth while stimulating your gums. It's particularly helpful for folks with arthritis who may have trouble maneuvering regular dental floss. Plus, it reportedly works better than dental floss: According to Waterpik, the water flosser is 50% more effective than floss and removes a staggering up to 99.9% of plaque.

Available in four colors, it's also super easy to use. Just fill the back reservoir with water and you can begin flossing.

Promising review: "My first Water Pik. Its a pleasure to use especially if youre a first timer like me. You can start off with gentle water force and slowly over time increase the level when you gums get accustomed to it. Its a good size for use at home since it can sit next to a compact sink area. Its great when traveling since it takes up little space. Water piks clean out the food particles between teeth that a toothbrush misses. It much more fun to use than regular flossing. And when you have arthritis like I have, regular flossing is cumbersome and not really possible. Consequently I didnt floss. Now I water floss!" Amazon Customer

15
A helping hand Roomba vacuum that's just "the right amount of robot"

If you're looking for an affordable robot vacuum that'll get the job done so you don't have to bend down and aggravate your pain, the Roomba 692 model is a great choice. It has versatile brushes that pick up everything from dirt and dust to pet hair (including on carpet), and can detect which areas in your home are particularly dirty, like a high-traffic entryway, so it can clean them more thoroughly.

Plus, it can connect to your Alexa or Google Assistant device. When its 90-minute runtime is up, it automatically docks itself to recharge. Easy.

Promising review: "I dont know how I lived without this Roomba! I have arthritis and scoliosis and it is so difficult to vacuum and it always made me hurt so I put off vacuuming! I have two dogs who shed so it is imperative that my house gets vacuumed often! Now I just push the button and let it go! I do a room or two per day. It is easy to dump the debris and clean the filter! It does an excellent job and I was skeptical at first because it seemed so random but that doesnt matter, it gets the job done!" Bonnie

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