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Severe arthritis: my mum needs help but won't admit it

3 replies

RVF400 · 13/03/2012 16:56

My mum (64) has arthritis in her hands that has been worsening over the last couple of years and has now got to the point where she is struggling with daily life, mainly cooking and kitchen-related stuff I think. I live about 120 miles away and she doesn't like to talk about it so I am always a bit shocked when I see her as it always seems to be worse than I remembered.

She sees the GP and has various hospital appts for meds but I really think she needs some adapted equipment in the home. My brother still lives with her but he will be moving out soon and she will be alone. I'm sure there must be organisations or charities that would be able to provide help and advice but I have no idea where to start. She is also incredibly proud and hates to admit she can't do something. She would rather struggle on in agony.

Can anyone suggest any organisations I can contact for help and information? As much as anything I need to educate myself. I know I need to do something to help but I have no idea what.

(It is limited to her hands, her general mobility is excellent)

OP posts:
Are your children’s vaccines up to date?
RVF400 · 13/03/2012 17:03

Is this even the right place to post? Sorry if it's not, not sure where else to put it.

OP posts:
CMOTDibbler · 13/03/2012 19:52

She needs to see an occupational therapist, though they won't provide any equipment now (they were at great pains to tell me this). What has been fabulous is my local 'disability' shop who have OTs staffing it and are super helpful in helping you find everything you need. There is a huge amount of equipment out there - for instance the one touch tin opener is great, and my spiky chopping board holds everything still for cutting/peeling

OT stores have a good catalogue so you can see what is out there

sashh · 15/03/2012 06:05

My local council has a sort of shop - you make an appointment and they assess what you need, some you take away there and then some is delivered later.

Ask your local council, they will have some sort of disability department - often comes under the social work section. Little things can make a huge difference, kettle tippers, a chip pan basket in a pan so veg are easy to lift.

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