Supportive Aids
 Supportive aids are one self-care strategy that people with osteoarthritis rely on. Supportive aids or 'assistive devices' are defined as "Any device that is designed, made, or adapted to assist a person with performing a particular task. For examples, lightweight utensils, baskets, walkers, wheel chairs, and chairs with wheels are all assistive devices. Devices can make life easier and increase a person's activity level or simply give support while doing activities. For the purposes of nutrition and cooking, supportive devices can alleviate pain, give support, make tasks easier and help maintain autonomy. They might feel odd when using for the first time, but it will get easier as time goes. There are many devices that can help you. Below are just a few to make your kitchen work for you as you continue your daily activity.
Automatic Can Openers
Arthritis affects the joints in hands and knuckles making grasping things very hard. Automatic can openers are just one thing that makes things easier in the kitchen. The simple placement under a cabinet within reach and push down device to start the motor makes preparing things easier. Cutting Boards
Newer devices found on the market are cutting boards that have guards. These boards aide in grabbing, turning and holding things that you prepare in the kitchen. They help a person with arthritis function better and are able to cook a meal more easily. If you can't find them, add your own suction cups to the bottom of the board. Cups can be found in craft and hardware stores.  Large handle serving utensils
Handles on utensils are important to look at when purchasing. An arthritis sufferer needs to look for long handles with rubber grips on the end. The longer handle and lighter material it is made of helps in alleviating pressure on joints that may be stiff. Additionally, there is less physical exertion and your grip will be more effective.
Pans/Pots w/ gripper handles & long large handles
Food preparation is a lot of pressure on your hands where arthritis effects most frequently. Pots and pans on the current market cater to the individual who needs more grip in cooking to carry a heavy pot of water or soup. If the pots don't have grips on them, frequently you can find larger gripped handles. Also, there are also 'clip-on' handles that can be bought. Attach these clips to the pots you already have. Both will help a sufferer of arthritis be able prepare a meal with more ease.Baskets
 Baskets can help alleviate a lot of strain when cooking. A wire one can be put in many pots or pans to steam vegetables, cook pastas. When you lift the basket, the water drains out. It saves on the labor of lifting a heavy pot of hot water and the risk of burning yourself with.
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