Crafting is a fun and enjoyable hobby for many older adults. It provides a creative outlet that can reduce stress and boost self-confidence. You don’t have to stop making crafts because of arthritis. Instead, learn some new crafts for seniors with arthritis and get crafty.
7 Crafts for Seniors With Arthritis To Try at Home
Arthritis is an incurable condition that affects many people as they age. However, it does not have to steal your ability to creatively express yourself. Whether you are a life-long crafter or are just starting out, give one or more of these seven arthritis-friendly crafts a try.
1. Knitting
Knitting is one of the most popular crafts for the elderly with arthritis. It is affordable and portable. Plus, you can create all sorts of practical and beautiful items with yarn.
Many people find that knitting helps improve fine motor skills, reduce stress, and release tension, which are important factors in preventing arthritis. It is also a great social activity.
Choose chunky yarn that allows for larger needles that are often easier to hold and manipulate. If you struggle more with one hand, consider switching your yarn crafting to crochet instead.
Don’t worry if you don’t already know how to knit. You can learn it in classes or through online tutorials if you prefer.
2. Clay Sculpting
You can create all sorts of practical and artistic things with clay. Whether you want to make plates, vases, or figurines, you are only limited by your imagination.
Basic supplies for clay sculpting include the clay, knives and scrapers, and rolling pins or mallets. It’s a good idea to choose softer clays that require less hand strength.
The feel of soft clay is very therapeutic for many people with arthritis. One note of caution, however, is to make sure the temperature is warm enough that the clay isn’t too cold in your hands.
3. Candle Making
Many people with arthritis find making candles therapeutic and relaxing. There are tons of basic kits on the market that will get you started. You can choose to hand-dip candles, pour them, or use molds. Some of the types of candles you can make at home include:
- Gel candles
- Pillars
- Scented candles
- Tapers
If you don’t want to make candles from scratch, you might consider candle bending. This fun craft for seniors with arthritis uses tapers softened in warm water. You can then bend, twist, and twirl them into unique shapes.
4. Paper Crafts
Paper crafting is a top hobby for seniors to do at home. It is accessible and inexpensive, making it a great introductory craft. Get crafty with one of these paper-based projects:
- Collages let you express creativity with minimal expense. Ask friends and family members to save magazines and pictures for you to work with.
- Making cards is another excellent arthritis-friendly paper craft. It is also an incredibly practical way to express your creativity.
- Paper flowers are super easy to make and serve as bright decorations at festive events. You can even put a few tissue paper carnations in a vase on your table to brighten up mealtime.
- Scrapbooking is a great way to preserve memories and have fun. Take time to go through photos as part of the process. You might even consider making a special scrapbook for each family member as a holiday gift.
No matter what type of paper crafts you choose, be sure to invest in arthritis-friendly supplies, including scissors, pens, and paper cutters. These will help make your projects easier and more fun.
5. Coloring
You might not think of coloring as a craft, but it definitely qualifies! There are tons of adult coloring books and sets available, or you can go online to find free printable pages. Choose larger patterns and thick pencils or markers to make it more arthritis-friendly.
6. Soap Making
Making soap is fun and practical. There are many different methods, including cold and hot process soaps.
Glycerine soap is a great starting point for beginners. You simply melt the pieces, add scents or colors, and pour them into molds or a loaf pan. Once hardened, you can remove them and enjoy.
A fun way to personalize handmade soap is by adding glitter, herbs, fine pumice, or even slices of a loofah sponge. You can also add things like milk for moisturizing or honey to soothe irritated skin.
7. Quilting
Quilting is a craft that you can learn at any age. It requires some creativity and precision but is also adaptable to meet you where you are. For example, you can make small quilted pillow covers using old t-shirts that have a special meaning.
Many quilters abandon their projects because of painful arthritis. However, you may just need to make some adaptations to make it more comfortable. For example, you can choose larger patterns or use a machine instead of hand stitching.
How To Adjust Crafts for People With Arthritis
You can adjust everyday crafts to accommodate individuals with arthritis. For example, using large knitting needles or special art supplies. Many craft products designed for young children work equally well for people with arthritis because they accommodate weaker grips and limited fine dexterity.
There are plenty of arthritis-friendly adjustments you can make. Try the following ideas to support your crafting:
- Adjust your tools: Look for items with thicker or multi-faceted handles that are easy to grip. Textures and wood materials often feel more comfortable to people with arthritis.
- Increase lighting: Good lighting allows you to be more precise in your movements, which can help reduce fatigue.
- Practice good posture: Slumping over a project will only lead to pain and stiffness. Try to practice good posture while you craft. Use an ergonomic workstation, if possible, to promote proper form.
- Warm up your hands: Perform gentle exercises like opening and closing your hands to loosen stiff joints. Wearing fingerless gloves may also help in cool weather.
Another thing that can help is using aids specifically designed for people with arthritis. For example, jar openers make getting into supplies easier, and joint supports can help alleviate strain.
Enjoy Daily Activities and Crafts for Seniors With Arthritis
The staff at Elder Care Alliance work to nurture our residents in a variety of ways. We provide activities and crafts for seniors with arthritis so they can find fulfillment and comfortably express their creativity. Schedule a visit to one of our communities today to learn more about our arthritis-friendly programs.
