(NC)-For people with arthritis, finding easy-to-open packages or bottles can be a pain. But it has gotten easier since The Arthritis Society created the Arthritis Friendly stamp of approval program designed to encourage manufacturers to develop products and packaging that are easier to use.
To earn the stamp, manufacturers submit products for independent review by a facility that performs consumer review and ergonomic tests. A complete list of products available in Canada is available online at www.arthritis.ca/arthritisfriendly.
In addition to encouraging manufacturers to introduce more arthritis-friendly packaging and products, John Fleming, president and CEO of The Arthritis Society says, “With nearly 4.5 million Canadians living with arthritis, innovative companies that tailor products accordingly have a significant business opportunity, particularly as the baby boomers move into their ‘arthritis years’ and don’t want to be slowed down.”
Quick Tips for Living Well with Arthritis
If you already have arthritis, or are trying to avoid it you can reduce wear and tear on your joints by:
. using good posture at all times (while lying down, sitting, standing, walking or taking part in work-related, recreational or other activities);
. keeping the muscles around your joints strong by exercising regularly;
. maintaining a healthy weight by exercising and eating a balanced diet;
. changing the way you do tasks that require a lot of bending or carrying heavy loads;
. changing your position often;
. protecting your joints by wearing splints, braces, knee pads and supportive shoes or boots.
Consult your health care providers to learn more.
Credit: www.newscanada.com
