If you were once an avid stitcher — or want to become one — you can still make those gorgeous heirloom-quality pieces, even with arthritis.
First, keep your stitching sessions relatively short. You may no longer be able to stitch for hours while listening music or watching television. But you can still do it in short bursts.
Next, warm up by soaking wrists and hands in warm water before picking up the needle. Stitching can preserve hand dexterity, according to arthritis.org.
Add some extra tools to your trade.
One problem a lot of older stitchers have is holding the hoop or project in one hand as they stitch. Solve this with a hoop holder that clamps onto the table. The adjustable holders have necks that bend in any direction. See them at arthritissupplies.com.
Use a magnetic needle nanny to keep track of the needle. Consider some thumb covers, or even a hand cover, all available at hobby shops.
Allyson Good curates senior living, health, and family content. She is formerly the Managing Editor of Active Life, a print newspaper published in 2016-2017 for seniors, choosing practical articles on health, money, safety, and everyday living for older readers. She is also an avid gardener and offers up Garden Hints and Tips on a regular basis.
