How I Made My Home PsA-Friendly (and Gravity-Proof!)
When I was first diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis (PsA), I lived in a tri-level home. While I loved the unique layout and character of the house, I absolutely hated the stairs. They weren’t just inconvenient; they were downright dangerous.
Lack of balance and knees that gave out without warning turned my daily commute up and down the stairs into an extreme sport. And yes, I had the bruises—and one broken big toe—to prove it. Ouch!
Fast forward to now, and I’m happily settled in a single-level home. While I occasionally miss the charm of a multi-level house, I do not miss the stair-induced acrobatics.
Living without stairs was just the beginning of my journey to make my home more accessible for PsA. Here’s a peek at what I’ve done, with a touch of humor and a lot of practicality.
Strategically soft furniture placement
Stairs may be gone, but gravity is still here to remind me who’s boss. With PsA, I’ve mastered the art of falling in ways that defy physics.
I’ve been known to topple over while standing still or even plop sideways mid-stride. To counter this, I’ve arranged my furniture with two goals in mind:
- Maximize the chance of landing on something soft
- Always have somewhere to sit when I’m unable to walk across the house in one go
It’s not exactly an HGTV-style makeover, but it’s functional and that’s what matters most.
Bathroom safety is non-negotiable
Bathrooms are like obstacle courses for people with PsA. Slippery surfaces, high tub walls, and limited space? It’s like they were designed to keep us on our toes—literally.
My husband installed grab bars around the tub, and I added a shower chair to the mix. Now, instead of attempting a high-stakes balancing act, I can sit down, swing my legs into the tub, and take my time. Bonus: no more performing unintentional cannonballs.
Kitchen comforts
Cooking with PsA requires patience, creativity, and a sturdy stool. Standing at the stove for too long is a no-go, so I’ve parked a stool in the kitchen. It’s my trusty companion for when I’m waiting for water to boil or trying to make it through meal prep without collapsing like a soufflé.
Mobility aids galore
Crutches, a cane, and a hospital-style walker are scattered strategically throughout my home like checkpoints on an obstacle course. These tools are lifesavers when my legs decide they’re on strike. By keeping them easily accessible, I’ve reduced the number of times I’ve had to crawl across the house like a determined (and slightly annoyed) turtle.
Grateful for small victories
I’m thankful that these adjustments have been enough to accommodate my PsA for now. Who knows what the future holds? If there’s one thing PsA has taught me, it’s to adapt and roll with the punches (or falls).
Each adjustment I’ve made has brought me closer to creating a home where I can feel safe, comfortable, and confident.
What accommodations have you had to make to your home for PsA? Share your tips and tricks in the comments, I’m always looking for new ideas to make life a little easier!
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