Quite often people in their retirement years will downsize their larger home for a home all on one level. This is a great idea, especially for those who have arthritis. Some people decide to go to an apartment with elevator service; while others move to a warmer climate. Having no stairs to climb, no lawns to mow, no snow removal are all beneficial for arthritis sufferers.

Even if you decide to stay in your home there are a host of other things you can do to make your life easier.

In the Kitchen

Organize your cupboards and storage areas to make sure the things you use most frequently are within easy reach.

Use a lever for your door handles rather than a knob; they are easier to open and close.

Use long handles wherever possible; they save you from reaching.

Use a rubber mat in front of a sink. It is warmer and provides cushioning when standing for long periods.

Use a kitchen stepstool when you have to reach something out of your normal reach span; or even a high stool to sit on when you have to do longer jobs. It is always easier to sit than to stand.

There are numerous "gadgets" that you can purchase to help you open lids on tight fitting jars; electric can openers for those who have difficulty with hand held ones.

You can purchase special handles for your kitchen faucet to make them easier to turn on and off.

Make the handles on your kitchen pots thicker and easier to handle by wrapping them with foam or bubble wrap.

In the Bathroom

Attach a handrail on your bathtub or a "grab bar" inside of the shower which allows easy entry and exit.

Having an ample supply of hot water available is important. Arthritis patients find great comfort in soaking in a warm bath; which is good for soothing stiff muscles and joints.

Having a walk-in shower with a seat and a pulsating shower head is the next best thing to a whirlpool tub.

Raise the level of your toilet seat so that it is easier to sit and to stand up.

Using an armrail on the wall or vanity near the toilet seat is also helpful when trying to stand.

Another handy thing to have is an electric or battery operated toothbrush. These really work well for getting the teeth clean and are much less work than a regular toothbrush.

The Familyroom

It is important to have the room where you spend your leisure time set up so that you are going to be comfortable.

Having firm chairs with armrests is not only convenient for getting up from a sitting position; the arms offers support and spreads the load of your body weight more evenly when standing. If the chair is too low, you can raise it by adding a cushion making it easier to push yourself up.

If you don't already have one; a good investment is a recliner chair with a footrest. They will reduce the pressure on the hips and knees while sitting. There are chairs on the market today with built-in massage units and vibrators.

Whatever your choice you will need a chair that is a good fit for your body. If your posture is not good while you are sitting you will surely suffer more pain.

For more information on arthritis please visit my website at:
http://www.removingjointpain.com and get a copy of my Free Report.