Living well with arthritis: small changes that make a big difference

Living with arthritis can feel like a constant battle, but for many women in their 50s, 60s, and beyond, arthritis isn’t the end of independence; it’s simply the beginning of a new approach to wellbeing.

Advertisement Feature | This article was created by 

Arthritis may feel like it turns everyday tasks into a juggling act, managing the things you need or love to do with the pain and stiffness that can flare up at any moment.

On Gransnet, we see plenty of conversations about the toll the condition can take, especially when you are determined not to let it hold you back.

But our talkboards are also full of practical advice and helpful tips from others who understand, from small movement adaptations and mindset shifts to tools that can make day-to-day life a little easier. Here are small habits you can adopt to make living with arthritis a little easier.

1. Listening to your body

While life can get busy, one of the most common tips we see from sufferers of arthritis is the importance of pacing.

Try breaking down tasks into manageable chunks rather than attempting everything in one big go. Alternating movement with rest can be a key way to reduce flare-ups.

“For me it’s 20 minutes on my feet and then 20 minutes [sitting] down,” a Gransnet user said in a recent talkboard. “It can be very frustrating but it keeps me going and jobs get done eventually.”

Arthritis experts agree. “Movement is medicine,” says Dr. Helen Marsh, clinical advisor for Arthritis UK. “Even a few minutes of gentle mobility work each day supports the joints, reduces stiffness and boosts confidence.”

2. Small adaptions, big relief

Small changes can often make the biggest difference, and that is especially true when living with arthritis.

Simple adjustments, like raising the height of your chair, using kitchen tools with an ergonomic design, or installing a handrail in your hallway, can make everyday tasks more comfortable and help reduce any unnecessary strain on your joints.

It's important to remember that these adjustments aren't a sign of slowing down, but rather taking control. Many women have also seen improvement with joint-friendly habits, like a warm compress, hand exercises, short walks and mindful stretching.

Joint-friendly habits like a warm compress or mindful stretching can help

3. Finding joy (and saying yes to it more often)

Arthritis can feel as though your body is stopping you from doing the things that once came easily, but the condition does not have to take away your sense of identity. Instead, it can be a time to take charge and say yes to new approaches, whether that means trying different techniques or new self-care habits.

Women living with arthritis may find themselves gardening in a new way, knitting with lighter needles, choosing shoes that offer cloud-like comfort, or swapping a long daily walk for several shorter ones throughout the day. The key is to hold on to the things that bring you joy while adapting them to what your body needs. It is still joy, just with a few thoughtful adjustments.

“I have never been able to hold the tension properly in knitting, but I do lovely, even crochet, and still do, with my arthritic hands,” one Gransnet user said in a forum. “In one of life's twists, I was taught by my nan, whose hands were arthritic - and I remember that as I work!”

This mindset, rooted in empowerment rather than limitation, is exactly what Arthritis UK hopes to support through Inspire magazine. The magazine is packed with articles covering what matters most to people living with arthritis, from research breakthroughs to top tips for managing symptoms.

4. Tools worth trying

There are now more tools than ever designed to help people with arthritis live comfortably, from joint supports to adaptive cutlery, and apps to guide you through mobility sessions.

At Gransnet, we believe the best endorsements come from real women living with arthritis, which is why we value the honest and open reviews from our users.

"I have found that Yoga has definitely helped with my mindset and mood," one user commented, while another added: "I also had a TENS machine which was helpful and I could use it at work. My philosophy - try ANYTHING. Good luck!"

Take charge and say yes to new approaches if you’re living with arthritis

5. You’re not on this journey alone

Arthritis can be so tough to deal with, both physically and emotionally. But with the right support, information and small lifestyle tweaks, it is absolutely possible to keep doing the things you love.

Arthritis UK’s Inspire magazine is packed full of expert guidance, real stories, the latest arthritis research and helpful tips on living well with arthritis. One reader said "Inspire is a mine of information which will guide you through the pain and inconvenience of living with arthritis. A little sunshine on a rainy day."

Because living with arthritis isn’t just about managing symptoms, it’s about protecting joy, maintaining independence, and feeling supported every step of the way.

Frequently asked questions about arthritis on Gransnet

Below we answer the most asked questions we see from Gransnet users on our talkboards.

What are the best small daily changes for living well with arthritis?

Find simple ways to make everyday tasks a little easier. If you enjoy gardening, try doing it in shorter bursts. Knitting might feel more comfortable with lighter needles. You could also make it easier to move around your home by adjusting seat heights and adding handrails along the walls.

How can I pace myself to avoid arthritis flare-ups?

Break tasks into bite-size chunks. For example, if you need to tidy the house, work for 20 minutes, then rest for 20 minutes. Instead of a big weekend clean,why not try small daily tidies to stop things piling up? It could just be five minutes in the morning or a quick tidy up before bed.

Is exercise safe when you have arthritis and what kinds are gentler?

Arthritis UK advises that regular exercise has so many benefits for the condition, including improving muscle strength and balance. Our Gransnet users have suggested gentler movements, such as swimming, Yoga, Pilates, and walking.

What simple home adaptations can reduce joint strain?

Arthritis UK has plenty of tips, including ergonomic kitchen tools, a light travel hair dryer or a hands-free hairdryer holder, and wrapping elastic bands around makeup pencils or brushes to make them easier to grip. You can also find lots of brilliant assistive products on the Arthritis UK shop at https://shop.arthritis-uk.org.

What tools and gadgets can help with arthritis in the kitchen?

Alexa and Google Home devices can be great additions to your home as they help you to control the electrical devices and services without needing to get up. You might also benefit from things such as electric can openers or kettle tippers that make it easier to pour.

How do I manage morning stiffness with arthritis?

With arthritis, it’s common to wake up with stiff or painful joints. There are small ways to make mornings easier, such as aiming to get a good night’s sleep, laying out your outfit and preparing your breakfast and lunch the night before, moving the body with a full stretch, and applying heat to the sore spots.

Where can I find trustworthy arthritis information and support?

Arthritis UK is the UK's leading charity for arthritis, supporting over 10 million people with the condition. Gransnet also has a supportive community of women living with the condition, sharing tips and tools to make life easier.

About Arthritis UK

Arthritis is the UK's leading charity for arthritis, supporting over 10 million people with the condition. The charity believes everybody living with arthritis should be able to access the right treatments and support to live their lives the way they want to. Arthritis UK invests in cutting-edge research and impactful services with the hope that someday there may be a cure.

Register for Inspire today and receive a welcome pack including the latest edition of Inspire, a pen and pin badge.

Your donation will help to fund life-changing research and support, helping to drive lasting change, so that everyone with arthritis can get the treatment and support they need today, with real hope of a cure in the future.

• Learn more