This informal CPD article, ‘Restoring Functional Independence Through Thoughtful Design: A Case Reflection on Arthritis-Related Upper Limb Limitations,’ was provided by Kellie Anne Lee of Uccello Designs, which was founded with the purpose of making people's lives easier, by providing safe and elegant assistive technology.
Introduction
Maintaining independence in the performance of daily activities is essential for quality of life, particularly among older adults living with chronic musculoskeletal conditions such as arthritis. Functional limitations in grip strength, wrist mobility, and upper limb control are common among this population, often leading to difficulty managing simple kitchen tasks like boiling water or preparing hot beverages — a culturally and socially significant routine for many older adults.
This article explores a real-world case that demonstrates how accessible design can support functional independence, reduce the risk of injury, and alleviate carer burden.
Case Summary: Living with Arthritis in the Community
Anne, an 80-year-old woman living independently, presents a familiar scenario for many healthcare professionals. With a longstanding history of arthritis in her hands and previous spinal surgeries, Anne began struggling with one of her most habitual daily tasks: lifting a kettle to make tea.
Her daughter in law Lynda, concerned about the increased risk of scalding injuries and the growing physical discomfort she faced, sought out a solution that would preserve Anne’s autonomy without compromising safety.
Clinical Relevance
This scenario reflects a widespread challenge encountered by older adults living with arthritis and reduced upper limb function:
- Decreased grip strength and dexterity: Common in arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis of the hands, leading to difficulty holding or lifting weighted objects such as a full kettle.
- Risk of injury: Lifting boiling water introduces significant risk in individuals with tremor, impaired coordination, or muscle fatigue.
- Psychosocial impact: Loss of autonomy in daily routines can contribute to reduced self-esteem, increased dependence, and caregiver stress.
In Anne’s case, a small intervention — the introduction of an assistive kettle with a non-lift pour — enabled her to safely boil and pour water without assistance, restoring both confidence and control in her kitchen environment.
Assistive Design: Bridging the Gap Between Need and Ability
Innovations in assistive technology can provide occupational therapists and healthcare professionals with low-barrier solutions to promote safe, independent living. Devices that reduce the physical effort required to complete tasks—through features such as tilt-to-pour mechanisms, ergonomic handles, and stable base units—can help patients maintain independence longer at home.
From a professional perspective, this supports several key principles of occupational therapy and community-based care:
- Maximising functional ability within the home
- Reducing environmental hazards and fall/injury risks
- Supporting person-centred care through enabling choices
In clinical practice, recommending such devices can be incorporated into a broader strategy of environmental modification and patient education. Simple interventions like these can be supported through home visits, demonstration sessions, or collaboration with carers to ensure consistent and safe use. They also serve as conversation starters for broader discussions around energy conservation, adaptive techniques, and future planning for daily living supports.
Conclusion
This case serves as a valuable reminder that seemingly simple interventions can have a significant impact on patient well-being. For healthcare professionals, especially occupational therapists working with aging populations or clients with upper limb limitations, understanding and recommending the right assistive tools can enhance independence, promote safety, and ease the caregiving role for families.
As professionals, it’s not always about major adaptations — sometimes, it’s about identifying the small changes that make the biggest difference.
We hope this article was helpful. For more information from Uccello Designs, please visit their CPD Member Directory page. Alternatively, you can go to the CPD Industry Hubs for more articles, courses and events relevant to your Continuing Professional Development requirements.
