Tips to maintain independence

Pans too heavy? Try aluminum.

Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis hit me when I was 13 years old. It was a shock since I was very active. My case was severe in an era when little was known about arthritis treatment for young people. Within months my body had drawn up on itself, and a wheelchair became my transportation for the next ten years. 

My folks were proactive in helping me be as independent as possible. I also learned techniques from physical therapists that spurred my own creativity. 

Even when massive reconstructive surgery got me out of the wheelchair and walking again, there was much I was unable to do, at least in the normal way. I cannot reach below my knees or above my head. Dexterity has become more of a problem.

Now I watch as family members and friends begin to deal with issues I’ve faced since my wheelchair and relearning to walk days.

Here are some tips.

Walking toe to heel sets us up for tripping. Practice walking heel to toe until it becomes second nature. You’ll be more stable and trip less.

Purchase one or more grippers. These are long handled tongs that help you grab items off the floor or places difficult to reach. I have one in almost every room—and each one is different. There are different kinds. There are different lengths. Some include a magnet or a light. Some fold up for easier traveling. Find those that work best for your situation.

Dustpans are great helpers. When I needed something to assist me in lifting items I’d dropped, a dustpan was a good solution. Back then, there were no dustpans with long handles. Using a dowel rod I created my own. Today you can buy dustpans with long handles. We have three from small to large in different rooms. When I drop something, I grab a dustpan and kick or sweep the item into it and lift it up within reaching distance. (It does mean you should keep the dustpan clean.)

Dowel rods are a lifeline. Therapists showed me how to use long sticks for dressing. From there I designed utility sticks that work for me. That starts with adding a hook to one end and a loop on the other end. (Everything I have has added loops for ease of picking it up after dropping it. Adding loops to items can be a lifesaver. (Think cell phone.) I use zip ties or shoe laces cut to the length I need to make loops, and use electrician's or other tape that will hold and last.

The hooked stick helps lift clothes over your head, pull on underwear, socks and pants. I have a comb attached to a stick at just the right angle to comb my hair. I design sticks for my needs. Friends make them to my design. I have three foot and shorter sticks. I purchased retractable pointers, took off the end and added a hook. Now I have expandable hooks that fit in my purse.

A brand-name duster has an expandable rod. The rod has two prongs on the end for the dust cloth. I thought of a different use for the rod than dusting. Now when I want to put my crossbody purse strap over my head, or put a hat on my head, since I cannot reach over my head, I use the rod. It is perfect.

In the kitchen: When I could no longer lift heavy pots and pans, I purchased lightweight ones. When plates started feeling heavy, we went to lightweight plates and then to heavyweight paper plates. This also helps when it gets more difficult to press and scrub. I don’t know which is more costly—purchasing paper plates or using water and cleaning supplies to wash regular plates. I do know that paper plates work for this stage of my life.

Even with lightweight pans, lifting became more difficult. Now we use aluminum pans. They come in different configurations and, like paper plates, can be tossed after use.

If your voice is softer now or your partner is hard of hearing, buy whistles that fit like a bracelet around your wrist. This is an inexpensive way to ensure you are heard.

Whatever your need as you age, don’t despair. Get proactive and creative. Find items to repurpose for use or create something that works for you. It keeps the mind working and provides satisfaction that you have managed to hold onto the independence we all crave.

© 2026 Carolyn R Scheidies

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