Making life just that little bit easier

• If humidity makes you more breathless, remember to open the window/door in the bathroom before it steams up.
  
  
• Sit down to shave or apply make up.
  
  
• Invest in a quilt / duvet if you don’t already have one – they are much lighter and easier to use than blankets
  
  
• Sleep with extra pillows – the V shaped ones are very handy as they can provide more support. Alternatively, prop the head end of the bed up slightly on blocks. This could make it easier to breath at night.
  
  
• If you have oxygen concentrator consider placing it somewhere other than the bedroom if the noise annoys you. It is often possible to ask the supplier to arrange this for you.
  
  
• Use long handled tools in the garden and raise your flowerbeds if possible. Container gardening can also be easier to manage.
  
  
• Use a feather duster and long handled mop to avoid bending down or reaching.
  
  
• Consider buying a lighter iron and a vacuum with an automatic cord re-wind – less energetic!
  
  

• Buy saucepans with 2 handles to spread any weight and make them less difficult to lift.
  
  
• Try and have as many items in the kitchen at worktop height or eye level. If you need to replace items in the kitchen consider the following: a dishwasher that sits on the counter, a microwave that can be placed on the worktop and eye level grills.
  
  
• Using a tumble dryer is easier than pegging out washing. Although more expensive, they can also save on ironing too. If you do hang washing outside, a rotary dryer is easier to use, particularly is you place the laundry basket in a stand so you don’t need to bend over too much.
  
  
• Keep all fast moving items in the kitchen easily accessible.
  
  
• If you have trouble or feel breathless when you bend over to put your shoes on buy a shoe horn with a long handle. They work really well.
  
  
• Order as much as you can via mail order catalogues and the internet – most supermarkets have online stores and they deliver the groceries straight to your door. It’s also a great way to do your Christmas shopping and try on clothes in the comfort of your own home and in your own time.~
  
  
• There are some private companies that offer good ready meals and will deliver to your door for a reasonable cost. Look out for these if you find cooking tiring. Or, consider meals on wheels.
  
  
• Use tin foil to line cooking dishes. It will save valuable energy with the washing up!
  
  
• Buy a bar stool to use whilst ironing/cooking at the stove etc. A swivel one is even better.
  
  
• Think ahead with your medication and make sure you have enough supplies by marking on a calendar/diary when you need to order more.
  
  
• If you are thinking of returning to work but not sure how much you can manage, try some voluntary work first.
  
  
• Pick a favorite charity and get involved. This can be very therapeutic.
  
  
• Start a new project that you may never have had the time to do in the past, for example organize the family photo albums, undertake genealogical research, or take up a new craft.
  
  
• Prepare double quantities of food when you are having a good day and freeze them.
  
  
  
• Select larger clothing – it is easier to take on and off.
  
  
• Wear a toweling bathrobe – this helps dry your back.
  
  
• Put non-slip mats in the bath and shower.
  
  
• Pre-program numbers into you home phone and mobile phone so they are easy to use in case of emergency or anxiety.
  
  
• Some patients find the temperature of the bath or shower water really affects them.  Don’t have it too hot and try cooling off with slightly colder water over your feet and legs before you leave the shower.