Maintaining independence with age brings about a variety of challenges, especially for seniors who have issues with grip strength. Reduced grip strength can make it harder to complete daily tasks, which can be frustrating. The good news is that seniors with home care can learn tips and tricks to possibly improve their grip strength.
Using Tools to Improve Grip Strength
Tools to assist seniors with improving their grip strength can be broken down into several categories, including the following:
- Ergonomic Tools: There are a variety of ergonomic tools on the market to assist seniors. Some of those include utensils with larger, padded handles and gardening tools that make it easier to complete tasks. Additionally, seniors might benefit from electric jar openers or jar opening tools that eliminate the need for a firm grip. Another thing to consider is swapping out seniors’ silverware for something with wider handles and using specialized cutting boards with gripped bottoms. These are just a few of the tools that seniors with home care can learn to use. Using ergonomic tools lessens fatigue and gives them encouragement.
- Assistive Equipment: One of the daily tasks that seniors might struggle with is dressing. Thankfully, there is assistive equipment available that can help them with this when grip strength is an issue. For instance, button hooks help seniors attach buttons without the need for gripping. Also, zipper pulls make zipping clothes easier when there is diminished strength. To alleviate this situation altogether, it may be easier to transition buttons and zippers to velcro fasteners. Also, whenever possible, it might be a good idea to choose elastic waistbands.
Modifications to the Home
Along with the tools above, there are modifications that can be made to the home that can also help with grip strength. One change that can make a big difference is changing door knobs to lever handles. Additionally, grip strips can be added to things like cabinet pulls and shower handles to make them easier to grasp. Finally, non-slip mats aren’t just for the bathroom. They can be placed in high-spill areas as well, such as the kitchen. With home care by their side, seniors can explore what areas and things might need modifications.
Grip Exercises
To improve grip, seniors can complete exercises that focus on preserving or enhancing grip strength. Occupational therapists can assist with this, creating a customized solution that meets seniors’ unique needs. Additionally, there are hand workouts seniors can do on their own, as well as tools such as stress balls or therapeutic putty. Family members can take part in occupational therapy sessions to learn more about their loved ones’ needs and encourage them to practice exercises outside of the therapy session.
Seniors with limited grip strength can greatly improve their quality of life with a few well-considered changes, along with the help of occupational therapists and home care. These modifications, which range from home adaptations and adaptive clothes to ergonomic equipment, not only help preserve independence but also increase confidence. With improved grip strength, seniors can continue to enjoy daily activities with ease.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Care in Manassas, VA, please contact the caring staff at Access Home Care Inc today! Call (703) 765-9350
Access Home Care provider in Arlington, Alexandria, Leesburg, Reston, Herndon, Manassas, Ashburn, Falls Church, McLean, Lorton, Springfield, Woodbridge, Fairfax, Virginia and the surrounding communities.
“My desire to enter into nursing started when one of my older sisters died of kidney disease due to lack of care. At age 15, I decided to enter into nursing so that I could provide quality care to patients.Upon arrival in United States at 21 years of age, I enrolled in T.C Willliams School of Practical Nursing while working as a nursing assistant at a nursing home. I also worked as a part-time home health aide to take of the elderly. After completion of my practical nurse education, I worked in geriatric psychiatry unit at Dominion Hospital and Arlington Correctional facility mental health unit.
I completed Marymount University in 2001 and entered into Home Care as a field case manager.
I held that position for 2 years and as an Administrator, and for another 2 years until Access Home Care was found in 2004."
Today, Access Home Care has over 300 employees and 286 clients.
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