February 2000
Making Life Easier in the Home
Helpful Hints for Senior Citizens
Following are a few ways that you can reduce stress and fatigue on your body,
and at the same time, make home a safer and more satisfying place to live.
- When lining your garbage can with plastic bags, put 6 or so extra in the bottom. When
you pull one out that is ready to take outside, you will have another at your fingertips
to replace it.
- Pick the objects off shelf with both hands. Store heavy items on center cabinet shelves,
light objects on high or low shelves.
- Turn faucets on and off using the palm, keep fingers straight. If you replace your
faucets, replace with levers as they reduce strain on the hands.
- Carry groceries and other bundles with your forearms. wrists and fingers should be free
and relaxed.
- Make one side of the bed before moving on to the other side.
- Remove clothes from the dryer with a reacher.
These are just a few ways that you can help make your daily living more enjoyable. By
saving your energy for the things you enjoy the most, your life is therefore, more
satisfying. Of course, if you are able, whether it be paid help or family and/or friends,
have someone else help you with your daily chores of laundry, dished, dusting and such.
Life@Home staff writer |
