There is nothing quite like the comfort of a home-cooked meal. But when you are living with paralysis, cooking can be very difficult in a standard kitchen — especially if you also have hand paralysis.

While ultimately a remodel of your kitchen will make things easier and safer, not everyone can afford to make this change immediately.
But, fortunately, there are many simple ways to make your kitchen more accessible without calling the contractor.

The kitchen doesn’t have to intimidate, especially if you have hand paralysis. Here’s how to make it work for you!

Here are 5 to get you started.


1. Rearrange Things.

Just rearranging your kitchen can make cooking much easier.
For example, put items you use regularly, such as bowls or cookware, on shelves in bottom cabinets or other places easier to reach. Place these items between waist and shoulder height for the easiest access.

To make things even more efficient, place those items on a Lazy Susan — that way, you don’t have to dig or reach to get what you want.



2. Get a Microwave Oven.

The microwave gets a bad rap — but contrary to popular belief, it’s not just for popcorn and frozen meals!

When you are in a wheelchair, a microwave is much safer than using a standard oven, and you can use it to cook just about anything.

If you have an over-the-range microwave, it should have an exhaust fan that vents to the outdoors.

3. Go for Some Gadgets!

Who doesn’t love kitchen gadgets? And trust us, there are a ton out there designed to make your life a lot easier.

Hands-free salad spinners, two-handed slicers, touch can openers, lap cutting boards, and so much more.

There are some great videos on YouTube that review and demonstrate these tools.

Do you wait to cook your bacon after your eggs and sausage? Well, wait no more! A divided skillet lets you do everything at once!

Editorial Contributors
avatar for Danny Lipford

Danny Lipford

Founder

Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.

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