A Note From the Author
Everyone, myself included, looks for ways to make life easier. Whether
we're spring cleaning, preparing dinner or planting flowers, our goal is to
save time and energy. When a chronic illness like arthritis enters the
picture, life gets more complicated. Completing even simple tasks can
become a challenge. Often we're forced to find new ways to accomplish the
things we want to get done.
In my case, a 1979 diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS), and the years
of increasing disability that followed, motivated me to simplify my life by
organizing, streamlining and consolidating everyday tasks.
I learned to alternate periods of activity with periods of rest, to plan
ahead and to take advantage of labor-saving devices and new technology.
All these things conserve my energy, allowing me to do more of the things I
want to do. Being organized and working smarter has also kept me more
independent than I otherwise would have been.
In consulting with people at the Arthritis Foundation, I learned that
many of the same principles apply to people with arthritis. This book
offers tips and techniques for getting things done around the house while
conserving energy and reducing wear and tear on your body. If you're
willing to be flexible and creative, you'll be amazed by what you can
do!
You'll learn dozens of ways to become better organized so you won't
waste valuable energy searching for the things you need. You'll find ways
to accomplish tasks quickly and efficiently. You'll discover low-cost
community services and resources which you may not have known existed. In
addition, you'll learn about easy-to-install devices designed to make your
home and household activities more accessible.
Many of the products and devices I mention in the book are readily
available in discount or hardware stores. To locate the more specialized
items, I have three suggestions: 1) Contact an independent-living center in
your area. Every state has several. Most centers have adaptive gadgets and
devices you can borrow at no cost for a trial period. They also may have a
vast computer database of the companies and manufacturers who make these
products. The National Council on Independent Living (703/525-3406) may be
able to assist you in finding the center nearest you. 2) Call local
medical-supply companies and home-health and/or hospital-supply stores to
see if they have the devices in stock. 3) Contact a hospital rehabilitation
department and speak with an occupational or physical therapist about the
product you're looking for. Whenever possible, try the device before
purchasing it.
When you live with a chronic illness, it can be hard to predict good
days and bad, let alone the future. I hope these tips help you increase
the number of good days you have and encourage you to develop your own
techniques for making life easier. I am convinced that finding ways to
adapt, modify and simplify your life will give you the greatest opportunity
to enjoy each day to the fullest.
Shelley Peterman Schwarz
Madison, Wisconsin
Syndicated columnist, author and professional speaker |
