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When arthritis affects your hands or joints, hobbies and leisure activities can become frustrating or even painful. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to give up the things you love. With the right tools and a little creativity, you can enjoy your favorite pastimes without discomfort.
In this article, I’ll share a variety of arthritis-friendly tools for hobbies and leisure. Whether you’re into crafting, gardening, or board games, these products are designed to make it easier to do what you enjoy most.
Large-Handled Paintbrushes for Art
Painting is a relaxing way to express creativity, but traditional paintbrushes can be difficult to hold for extended periods. Large-handled paintbrushes, and Adaptive Grip Brushes, are a great solution. These brushes feature thicker, ergonomic handles that reduce hand strain while allowing for precise strokes.
A friend of mine with arthritis in her hands recently started using these, and she’s found that they’ve reignited her passion for painting. If you love art, these brushes can help you focus on your creativity instead of your discomfort.
Ergonomic Crochet Hooks
Crocheting is another calming activity that can be challenging with arthritis. Ergonomic crochet hooks, such as the Clover Amour series, are designed to reduce hand fatigue. These hooks have soft, rubbery grips that are easier to hold and won’t slip out of your fingers.
When I tried these hooks for a gift project, I was amazed at how comfortable they felt, even after hours of crocheting. If yarn crafts bring you joy, these hooks are a must-have.
Electric Sewing Machines with Easy Controls
Sewing can be tough on arthritic hands, especially when working with small knobs and levers. The Brother CS6000i electric sewing machine makes the process smoother with its easy-to-use controls and automatic features. It offers a range of built-in stitches and adjustable speeds, so you can sew at your own pace.
One of my neighbors swears by this machine for her quilting projects. It’s lightweight, versatile, and ideal for anyone who needs a little extra help with fine motor tasks.
Accessible Board Games
Game nights can be a lot of fun, but small text and intricate pieces can pose challenges for people with arthritis. Accessible board games like Large-Print Board Games are a fantastic alternative. With oversized letters and sturdy tiles, these games are easier to see and manipulate.
My family loves Scrabble, and switching to the large-print version has made our game nights more inclusive. If you’re a fan of classic board games, look for options with bigger pieces and simpler designs.
Puzzles with Easy-Grip Pieces
Puzzles are a great way to unwind, but tiny, thin pieces can be frustrating to handle. Puzzles with easy-grip pieces, like Ravensburger XXL puzzles, solve this problem. These puzzles feature larger, thicker pieces that fit together easily without requiring excessive pressure.
I’ve worked on these puzzles with friends who have arthritis, and they’ve all appreciated the thoughtful design. They’re a wonderful way to relax and keep your mind sharp.
Ergonomic Gardening Seats
For those who find joy in gardening, an ergonomic gardening seat can be a lifesaver. The Garden Kneeler and Seat Combo is a versatile tool that provides a comfortable place to sit or kneel while tending to your plants. It also has built-in handles to help you stand up with less strain.
I’ve used one of these seats in my own garden, and it’s been a game-changer. It’s sturdy, portable, and makes gardening accessible even on tough joint-pain days.
Hobbies and leisure activities are essential for relaxation and mental well-being. With the right tools, arthritis doesn’t have to stand in the way of doing what you love. From painting to gardening, these products can help you stay engaged, creative, and happy.
Related Reads
Crafts and Hobbies for People with Arthritis: 30 Inspiring Ideas
Fun Hobbies for Healthy Joints: Activities to Ease Arthritis
Gardening with Arthritis: Ergonomic Tools for Comfortable Cultivation
🙋♀️ Have you tried any of these arthritis-friendly tools? Or do you have a favorite hobby that could use some adaptive tools? Let’s chat in the comments—I’d love to hear your thoughts!