this post was submitted on 27 Oct 2023
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No Stupid Questions

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I'm trying to buy some small tools to make life easier for someone I know, but I'm probably not thinking of all the use cases

For example, one of the things I'm getting is a gas cap opener for their car

I found a few other things listed here: https://arthritis.ca/treatment/pain-management/assistive-devices-resource

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[โ€“] Szymon 6 points 2 years ago (1 children)

Replace any doorknobs in their house with handles

[โ€“] otter 3 points 2 years ago

Thankfully that was already done. Other than the occasional belt snags, it's nice that they're becoming more common

[โ€“] [email protected] 6 points 2 years ago (1 children)

Without knowing anything about the nature or severity of their arthritis, it is impossible to give you an answer. Honestly, I would say that it's a nice idea, but generally it's not helpful to purchase specific medical devices for other people without their direct input. No two situations with the same medical problem are identical.

Can I suggest maybe a gift card for a store that specialises in rehabilitation / adaptive equipment and giving them the catalogue? Those kinds of businesses tend to be... extremely expensive though, so be warned. Companies love preying on people's desperation.

[โ€“] otter 7 points 2 years ago (1 children)

That's a good note thank you

I was planning to talk about the suggestions when I saw them or when something came up in conversation moving forward. It's still in the early stages where they can manage everything, but it's getting more difficult. Like how the gas cap was stressing them out with the cold weather because they were worried about getting stuck alone, which prompted my initial search. Since they don't order things online much I thought I could get the ones that might be nice.

I'll explore some of these stores when I get a chance, and maybe find them a catalogue / send them a link. Thank you :))

[โ€“] [email protected] 3 points 2 years ago

No problem, I know you mean really well. So did the people who bought me some crappy items gathering dust in the corner ๐Ÿ˜…

If they've already identified objects, that's great though. It sounds like their arthritis is limiting their grip strength, hand open/close action and maybe twisting objects is the problem too. Perhaps instead of a new gas cap, a more universal tool like a smaller lever clamp might be useful for multiple things and can be kept in the car.

Not professional advice though, hands are not my area. Good luck!