Assistive devices may be the solution if your work performance has deteriorated or you are struggling with something in the office environment. Here are some of the most common ones to show you what we’re talking about. You might find that adding one to the work routine improves your job performance or helps you feel more satisfied in the professional role.
Image Source: Pexels – Christina Morillo
Ergonomic Office Items
Your workstation may not be helping your body — In fact, it could be the reason why you often have lower back pain and sore wrists at the end of the day. A proper desk setup with a monitor stand and an adjustable chair with lumbar support set to the best height for your desk can make a difference. As everyone’s height and size are different, what is the right height and equipment setup for you will differ from someone else. Pay attention to your posture, too, when sitting at the desk.
Walking Sticks
Whether you are nearing the end of your work years or are younger with arthritis or another mobility issue, walking can be a challenge. Walking sticks can help, especially when you choose one with a palm, ergonomic, or arthritis grip for added comfort. There are many great colours and designs for walking sticks and canes today, and some even fold up for your convenience. A great benefit of this assistive item is that it encourages your back to stay upright, which may help make the related muscles stronger.
Prosthetic Devices
Prosthetics can replace a missing body part, such as an arm, leg, or hand. Your healthcare team can design and fit you for it, and with that can come better mobility and more self-confidence. While you might have been self-conscious about how you moved around the office before, with the new prosthetic device and physical therapy after work hours, you may enjoy a new-found sense of accomplishment as projects seem easier to do now. You won’t avoid talking to coworkers for fear that they are judging you on appearance and you can do tasks easier, too, improving your success on the job.
Mobility Scooters
Move around more comfortably in the office building and in your cubicle with a mobility scooter. Which one you choose is up to you, depending on your physical needs, from a portable one to a folding design or a heavy-duty model. Getting around to see your supervisor and grab folders relating to the latest product launch at work just got easier. Your new sense of independence may carry through to your job as you complete tasks more efficiently and have an all-around more positive attitude than before. Your sense of optimism is back now that you’re more mobile.
A Few Last Words
As you use assistive devices on the job, talk to your boss about the additions if you feel comfortable doing so. They may have additional suggestions to help you on the job. The conversation can also give them insight into what you’ve been struggling with to help them understand your needs better. Opening up about physical challenges can be difficult, but it also can be worth it as your boss comes to appreciate you more.
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