As the festive season approaches, Thanksgiving is just around the corner (WOW, already next week!), heralding a time of gratitude, family, and of course, delicious feasts. For many, the kitchen becomes the heart of the holiday celebration, where culinary creations come to life. However, for individuals with arm/elbow/wrist/hand/finger challenges, the prospect of preparing a Thanksgiving meal can be daunting. Let’s explore adaptive techniques for cooking from our perspective, offering (hopefully) valuable insight and tips to make your kitchen more accessible and an enjoyable space for everyone!
What do we recommend??
Adaptive Kitchen Tools:
1. Ergonomic Utensils: Invest in utensils with ergonomic designs that are easy to grip. Look for options with larger handles or those designed to fit comfortably in the hand, reducing strain during prolonged use. Adaptive utensils can include knives, peelers, and spatulas. Another option is to build-up the utensil grips you already have! This could mean wrapping the grips with coband or something nice and grippy like that!- Cutting Aids: Chopping and slicing are integral parts of Thanksgiving meal preparation. For those with limited hand strength or dexterity, consider using a food chopper or electric knife. These tools can make cutting vegetables and meats more manageable and less strenuous. Love a good chopper even if you don’t “need” it- they can make food prep much faster! A rocker knife is seen pictured to the left- this is a great option for adaptive knives.
- One-Handed Cutting Boards: Opt for cutting boards with spikes or suction cups to prevent slipping. These boards can be particularly beneficial for individuals who need to stabilize the board with one hand while cutting with the other.
- Adaptive Can and Jar Openers: Opening cans and jars can be challenging for those with weakened grip strength. Adaptive openers, such as those with larger handles or mechanical assistive devices, can make this task much easier. We recommend electric jar openers or non-slip jar opening pads (they are often silicone)!
- Non-Slip Mats: Place non-slip mats on countertops to provide stability for kitchen tasks. This can be especially helpful for individuals who may struggle with balance or need additional support when using their hands.
- Electric Appliances: Embrace electric appliances like food processors, blenders, and stand mixers to reduce the need for manual labor. These devices can handle repetitive or strenuous tasks, minimizing the strain on the upper extremities.
Adaptive Techniques!
- Task Breaks: Encourage taking breaks between tasks to avoid overexertion. Scheduling breaks allows individuals to rest their hands and prevent fatigue, making the overall cooking experience more enjoyable.
- Joint Protection Techniques: Teach joint protection techniques to minimize stress on the joints. This includes using larger joints for activities, distributing force evenly, and avoiding prolonged static positions. Reach out to us if you want more information on joint protection techniques!
- Sliding vs Picking-Up: Sliding items (dishes, platters, cooking machines like a blender, etc.) instead of having to pick them up and carry them may be easier on your joints and reduce pain with your conditions!
- Adaptive Seating: Consider using stools or chairs with proper support to reduce the strain on the upper body. This can be especially helpful for tasks that require extended periods of standing.
Recap!
This Thanksgiving, let’s celebrate inclusivity in the kitchen by implementing adaptive techniques that cater to individuals with upper extremity challenges! Let’s aim to minimize pain and symptoms while in the kitchen. A thoughtful and accessible kitchen not only makes the cooking process more enjoyable but also fosters a sense of togetherness and gratitude for everyone involved in the holiday festivities. As we gather around the table, may we all give thanks for the diverse ways in which we can come together and share in the joy of a delicious Thanksgiving meal. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday!
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