What are some things that I can do to conserve my physical energy?
September 3, 2022 9:35 AM Subscribe
I have a chronic medical condition [not cancer] that causes chemotherapy-level physical exhaustion. I am looking for additional practical things that I can do to conserve my physical energy. For an example of the sort of things that I am looking for, I shower sitting down in a shower chair instead of standing up; I have a table on wheels that goes over my bed so I can use my laptop in bed; I have a Roomba vacuum and a dishwasher.
Please DO NOT suggest increasing my exercise levels, I have discussed this with multiple doctors and it is not medically appropriate at this time.
Please DO NOT suggest increasing my exercise levels, I have discussed this with multiple doctors and it is not medically appropriate at this time.
Remote controlled/smart home lights and other devices. They might not save a ton of effort, but they can definitely be handy — especially if you can set up motion detectors to turn lights on, and put other ones on timers.
posted by jonathanhughes at 9:59 AM on September 3, 2022 [6 favorites]
posted by jonathanhughes at 9:59 AM on September 3, 2022 [6 favorites]
Philips Hue lights and Echo/Alexa devices to control them, if you’re willing to make the privacy bargain. Same with an Ecobee thermostat. An immersion circulator with WiFi (Joule or the revised Anova) will let you do more cooking while minimizing time standing, reaching, etc.
Less vital but Echo/Alexa can also be used to control some other stuff, chiefly media playback (which starts to turn into its own Ask).
If you don’t want Echos in your house, you can do a lot of this stuff directly via separate phone apps, but that starts to get cumbersome fast and you have to keep your phone with you and charged (or have spares positioned and plugged in where you most often sit).
posted by snuffleupagus at 10:01 AM on September 3, 2022
Less vital but Echo/Alexa can also be used to control some other stuff, chiefly media playback (which starts to turn into its own Ask).
If you don’t want Echos in your house, you can do a lot of this stuff directly via separate phone apps, but that starts to get cumbersome fast and you have to keep your phone with you and charged (or have spares positioned and plugged in where you most often sit).
posted by snuffleupagus at 10:01 AM on September 3, 2022
In a family member with conditions that cause energy deficiencies it absolutely makes a difference how much mental energy they use. Meeting and talking to people, more people such as a dinner party are worse than one or two. Activities on the laptop/tablet/phone that require focus or just attention, including reading. Researching things. They work around that by breaking up the day into periods where they do these things and periods where they chill with undemanding TV or even nap, alternating the rest periods with active periods. They also don’t plan too many exhausting things on consecutive days. So don’t underestimate energy you use on that kind of thing.
posted by koahiatamadl at 10:03 AM on September 3, 2022 [8 favorites]
posted by koahiatamadl at 10:03 AM on September 3, 2022 [8 favorites]
dishes (especially mugs) made of light materials like Corelle, including plastic or bamboo where appropriate. No ceramic anything and certainly no cast iron cookware.
posted by fingersandtoes at 10:05 AM on September 3, 2022 [8 favorites]
posted by fingersandtoes at 10:05 AM on September 3, 2022 [8 favorites]
limited repertoire of meals so you don't expend extra energy in coming up with new stuff or dealing with variables. only buy and make stuff you know well. a rotation schedule can be useful, but the more limited the options the easier it all is.
posted by fingersandtoes at 10:06 AM on September 3, 2022 [1 favorite]
posted by fingersandtoes at 10:06 AM on September 3, 2022 [1 favorite]
Well I've got a broken ankle so it's no equal to your chronic condition but it certainly means this is on my mind right now. Grocery delivery? Meal delivery? Frozen meals that just need microwaving? Or meal prep so you cook once and then can eat for several days? Minimal dishes that need to be washed, so paper plates? Laundry service pickup & delivery? Local teen who can come over and bring in your mail, or bring out your trash cans to the curb (if needed)? I'd do as much outsourcing as you can afford.
Also we lived without a microwave for years but now I'm super grateful we have one since it makes "cooking with minimal cleanup" so much more possible.
posted by BlahLaLa at 10:08 AM on September 3, 2022 [2 favorites]
Also we lived without a microwave for years but now I'm super grateful we have one since it makes "cooking with minimal cleanup" so much more possible.
posted by BlahLaLa at 10:08 AM on September 3, 2022 [2 favorites]
Many disabled people have routines that work, if it’s applicable look into Pacing and recommendations for ME/CFS lifestyle adjustments.
1. Automate as much as possible and outsource as much as possible. If it’s possible to hire help, especially for cleaning, do so if needed.
2. Make spaces accessible with seating. Folding stools tucked in corners, shower stools, etc.
3. Make simple batch meals or easy prep meals. I do a lot of sandwiches and nicer frozen dinners often. A crock pot or instant pot may be helpful. Also reduce any prep by using canned and frozen or precut ingredients.
4. I personally find some amount of routine helpful. It allows my body to function better and helps be get a better idea of how much energy I have.
5. Plan naps or rest within the tasks. Don’t over extend or plan too many tasks.
6. Doing this in small doses. Clean as you go. Just tidy one spot. Only wash your hair as much as necessary and use dry shampoo. Etc.
A lot of this is very individual and can change a lot. So again, look into Pacing and look at social media of people dealing with chronic fatigue.
posted by Crystalinne at 10:09 AM on September 3, 2022 [5 favorites]
1. Automate as much as possible and outsource as much as possible. If it’s possible to hire help, especially for cleaning, do so if needed.
2. Make spaces accessible with seating. Folding stools tucked in corners, shower stools, etc.
3. Make simple batch meals or easy prep meals. I do a lot of sandwiches and nicer frozen dinners often. A crock pot or instant pot may be helpful. Also reduce any prep by using canned and frozen or precut ingredients.
4. I personally find some amount of routine helpful. It allows my body to function better and helps be get a better idea of how much energy I have.
5. Plan naps or rest within the tasks. Don’t over extend or plan too many tasks.
6. Doing this in small doses. Clean as you go. Just tidy one spot. Only wash your hair as much as necessary and use dry shampoo. Etc.
A lot of this is very individual and can change a lot. So again, look into Pacing and look at social media of people dealing with chronic fatigue.
posted by Crystalinne at 10:09 AM on September 3, 2022 [5 favorites]
depending on what you like to eat, an instant pot is great because you can dump stuff in it, hit a button, and deal with it later whenever you're damn well ready, whether that's a few minutes or most of the day later. it'll keep stuff hot for ten hours after cooking if you want it to. but this only works well for quite long-cooked stuff like beans and meat.
posted by fingersandtoes at 10:10 AM on September 3, 2022 [1 favorite]
posted by fingersandtoes at 10:10 AM on September 3, 2022 [1 favorite]
A way to prep food sitting down. This can be as easy as a kitchen table.
posted by I claim sanctuary at 10:23 AM on September 3, 2022 [1 favorite]
posted by I claim sanctuary at 10:23 AM on September 3, 2022 [1 favorite]
Response by poster: ssg, what I'm currently struggling with:
taking rubbish to the outside rubbish bin;
taking recycling to the outside recycling bin;
laundry;
loading the dishwasher;
brushing my teeth (even with an electric toothbrush)
showering (even with a shower chair).
I get groceries home delivered. No assistance inside my home at the moment due to COVID risk (I'm strictly isolating at home so I don't catch COVID)
posted by carriage pulled by cassowaries at 10:34 AM on September 3, 2022 [1 favorite]
taking rubbish to the outside rubbish bin;
taking recycling to the outside recycling bin;
laundry;
loading the dishwasher;
brushing my teeth (even with an electric toothbrush)
showering (even with a shower chair).
I get groceries home delivered. No assistance inside my home at the moment due to COVID risk (I'm strictly isolating at home so I don't catch COVID)
posted by carriage pulled by cassowaries at 10:34 AM on September 3, 2022 [1 favorite]
If you have to cook at all, and your kitchen will accommodate it, a rolling stool; like the one at the doctor's office, esp. if it can be raised so counters are accessible. My friend started using a rollator and finds it super-useful for walking and having a place to sit and rest.
I have an old phone with no account and keep it in the bathroom charging, if I needed help, I could call emergency services. or I could use Google Voice.
Ask for help. When a friend says How can I help? ask them to shop for stuff for you when they shop, run an errand, or prepare an extra meal when they cook, and drop it off to your freezer. Many people really like helping.
posted by theora55 at 10:36 AM on September 3, 2022 [1 favorite]
I have an old phone with no account and keep it in the bathroom charging, if I needed help, I could call emergency services. or I could use Google Voice.
Ask for help. When a friend says How can I help? ask them to shop for stuff for you when they shop, run an errand, or prepare an extra meal when they cook, and drop it off to your freezer. Many people really like helping.
posted by theora55 at 10:36 AM on September 3, 2022 [1 favorite]
- trips to outside recycling bin: can you place your bags of rubbish/recycling directly outside your front door (so you don’t need to get out of your house) and have someone else take them from your front door to the bins?
or if you live on a ground floor and this is doable, throw/lower the bags to the ground through the window (so you don’t need to open the front door, even) and have someone else come by to take them from that spot to the bins?
- for internal rubbish bins within your house: you could try keeping them small and shallow/wide, rather than tall/deep. saves energy lifting the contents out when taking out the rubbish. easier to handle small lighter bags of rubbish than one very big and deep bag stuck inside a tall container.
- dishwasher: more disposables, less reusables. you could look into buying disposable plates in bulk (or smaller shipments if bulk is too tiring to handle).
if you know how to use chopsticks - disposable chopsticks can be super light, very cheap, and can substitute for both a fork and spoon when used right.
(i know this is advice that doesn’t sound great for the environment but i also think that disabilities are legitimate reasons for using less environmentally-friendly solutions.)
if not disposables then light objects that are multipurpose. for example lightweight stainless steel containers that can double as food storage containers (so if you can’t finish your food you can just stick it in the fridge as is).
- showering: can you reduce the number of times you shower by using wet wipes on certain days? you can sit anywhere in your room and basically wipe down the areas that have accumulated sweat/grime. there are some wet wipes that are good for this purpose (look for the ones that are gentle on skin with high water content).
posted by aielen at 10:55 AM on September 3, 2022 [4 favorites]
or if you live on a ground floor and this is doable, throw/lower the bags to the ground through the window (so you don’t need to open the front door, even) and have someone else come by to take them from that spot to the bins?
- for internal rubbish bins within your house: you could try keeping them small and shallow/wide, rather than tall/deep. saves energy lifting the contents out when taking out the rubbish. easier to handle small lighter bags of rubbish than one very big and deep bag stuck inside a tall container.
- dishwasher: more disposables, less reusables. you could look into buying disposable plates in bulk (or smaller shipments if bulk is too tiring to handle).
if you know how to use chopsticks - disposable chopsticks can be super light, very cheap, and can substitute for both a fork and spoon when used right.
(i know this is advice that doesn’t sound great for the environment but i also think that disabilities are legitimate reasons for using less environmentally-friendly solutions.)
if not disposables then light objects that are multipurpose. for example lightweight stainless steel containers that can double as food storage containers (so if you can’t finish your food you can just stick it in the fridge as is).
- showering: can you reduce the number of times you shower by using wet wipes on certain days? you can sit anywhere in your room and basically wipe down the areas that have accumulated sweat/grime. there are some wet wipes that are good for this purpose (look for the ones that are gentle on skin with high water content).
posted by aielen at 10:55 AM on September 3, 2022 [4 favorites]
In many places there are organizations that distribute no longer needed wheelchairs. They’re generally not top of the line, but they make a huge difference in the house. Sitting in one, flip up the foot plates and use a combo of your feet and hands to push.
A very small furniture mover (flat dolly with wheels in each corner) is ideal for trash and recycling - set the bag on and pull it.
Also, where I am located, it doesn’t matter to do the recycling. It gets shipped such a long way that the energy consumption cancels out. And a large percentage is just thrown away instead of being recycled. This is true almost everywhere. I give you permission to be kinda shit about recycling and not have the energy outlay of trying to keep those things separate. (If you DO live somewhere where it actually makes a difference and want to continue, more power to you! But also your life is allowed to be accessible to you and that includes not being morally perfect with the decisions you make. Sometimes it’s a trade off - if doing the recycling means you need more support that generates more waste, is it worth it to do the recycling?)
posted by Bottlecap at 11:42 AM on September 3, 2022 [8 favorites]
A very small furniture mover (flat dolly with wheels in each corner) is ideal for trash and recycling - set the bag on and pull it.
Also, where I am located, it doesn’t matter to do the recycling. It gets shipped such a long way that the energy consumption cancels out. And a large percentage is just thrown away instead of being recycled. This is true almost everywhere. I give you permission to be kinda shit about recycling and not have the energy outlay of trying to keep those things separate. (If you DO live somewhere where it actually makes a difference and want to continue, more power to you! But also your life is allowed to be accessible to you and that includes not being morally perfect with the decisions you make. Sometimes it’s a trade off - if doing the recycling means you need more support that generates more waste, is it worth it to do the recycling?)
posted by Bottlecap at 11:42 AM on September 3, 2022 [8 favorites]
All your trouble list will get easier with a wheelchair and you are not using something up that isn’t meant for you. You are disabled enough to be allowed to use an energy saving mobility aid.
posted by Bottlecap at 11:44 AM on September 3, 2022 [6 favorites]
posted by Bottlecap at 11:44 AM on September 3, 2022 [6 favorites]
For laundry, I have recently started separating loads into clothing categories (underwear vs regular clothes) which cuts down on the sorting time a surprisingly large amount. Smaller loads, while less efficient, will also be lighter and therefore easier on you.
I know you don't want people in the house due to COVID risk (and, as a disabled person, I totally sympathise!) but would you consider hiring someone to move your washer/dryer/possibly dishwasher higher up? They could perhaps put then on pedestals which would reduce your bending. That's likely to also help. The same is true of bins and so on - I find my energy levels are massively helped by not having to bend and lift things so much.
posted by In Your Shell Like at 11:49 AM on September 3, 2022
I know you don't want people in the house due to COVID risk (and, as a disabled person, I totally sympathise!) but would you consider hiring someone to move your washer/dryer/possibly dishwasher higher up? They could perhaps put then on pedestals which would reduce your bending. That's likely to also help. The same is true of bins and so on - I find my energy levels are massively helped by not having to bend and lift things so much.
posted by In Your Shell Like at 11:49 AM on September 3, 2022
Oh! I forgot to add that for bathing there are lots of products that don't need to be washed off. Here in the UK, E45 bath oil or other products for eczema/psoriasis are great options. These make for much more effective wipe downs than a wet wipe, but won't irritate your skin if you can't wash them off completely.
Best wishes for your treatment.
posted by In Your Shell Like at 11:51 AM on September 3, 2022
Best wishes for your treatment.
posted by In Your Shell Like at 11:51 AM on September 3, 2022
If part of the problem with laundry is moving it, there are wheeled laundry baskets. There are a lot of different kinds. Here is one.
It's depends on your hair, but the thing I find most tiring about showering is washing mine, and I only wash it once a week now (which my hairstylist actually suggested for the sake of my hair).
For cooking, I now keep chopped red and green peppers, celery, and carrots in the freezer in baggies. I buy dehydrated onions (which also save me from the problem of shoppers picking out rotting onions - which has happened more than a few times). When I want to make a stew, I have the vegetables ready to go and can just add beans, canned tomatoes, and spices. I cook it all in an InstantPot.
posted by FencingGal at 12:02 PM on September 3, 2022 [3 favorites]
It's depends on your hair, but the thing I find most tiring about showering is washing mine, and I only wash it once a week now (which my hairstylist actually suggested for the sake of my hair).
For cooking, I now keep chopped red and green peppers, celery, and carrots in the freezer in baggies. I buy dehydrated onions (which also save me from the problem of shoppers picking out rotting onions - which has happened more than a few times). When I want to make a stew, I have the vegetables ready to go and can just add beans, canned tomatoes, and spices. I cook it all in an InstantPot.
posted by FencingGal at 12:02 PM on September 3, 2022 [3 favorites]
For me it turns out that lying down requires significantly less energy than sitting propped up in bed. I have an over-bed stand for my iPad, but have recently found that prism glasses are more versatile and less trouble. They work for my iPad, a book, my phone, a magazine.
A power wheelchair is a wonderful thing.
posted by metonym at 12:10 PM on September 3, 2022 [4 favorites]
A power wheelchair is a wonderful thing.
posted by metonym at 12:10 PM on September 3, 2022 [4 favorites]
- dishwasher: more disposables, less reusables. you could look into buying disposable plates in bulk (or smaller shipments if bulk is too tiring to handle).
Yeah. I hate the environmental impact of all the disposable kitchen things I use, but they make feeding myself doable at times when it wouldn't be otherwise.
For laundry: if bending over to get things out of the machine is hard, there are hooks you can use to help reach things. Another approach is to wash everything inside some big mesh laundry bags for easier loading and unloading. You can deposit the dirty laundry straight into those bags, and maybe store them high enough that you don't have to bend over to pick them up. No need to bother folding or even sorting for most things.
You don't say which parts of the garbage/recycling disposal is most difficult - carrying heavy bags, traveling from the house to the bins, bending to remove things from the indoor bins, etc. Depending on which aspects are most problematic, some or none of these might help:
- making frequent trips with a light load instead of less frequent trips with heavier loads
- alternatively, using a trash compactor for the recycling (for heavier but less frequent trips)
- eschewing indoor bins altogether and just directly depositing stuff into disposable bags
- using some kind of dolly or cart
- if you have lots of organic waste, maybe some indoor (worm?) composting would work out to less effort?
Wrt indoor assistance: I'd be all too willing to wear one of those serious 99% respirator masks for someone I was helping (and you might be able to wear one too while someone was over). An air purifier (if you can afford it) might also help. It sounds like a visit once a week or two could make a big difference, if it sounds at all possible.
A bidet and washing your face/pits at the sink with a washcloth could help reduce the need for frequent showers. For tooth brushing, would it help to rig up a shelf or table that you could rest your elbow on as you brush?
posted by trig at 12:20 PM on September 3, 2022
Yeah. I hate the environmental impact of all the disposable kitchen things I use, but they make feeding myself doable at times when it wouldn't be otherwise.
For laundry: if bending over to get things out of the machine is hard, there are hooks you can use to help reach things. Another approach is to wash everything inside some big mesh laundry bags for easier loading and unloading. You can deposit the dirty laundry straight into those bags, and maybe store them high enough that you don't have to bend over to pick them up. No need to bother folding or even sorting for most things.
You don't say which parts of the garbage/recycling disposal is most difficult - carrying heavy bags, traveling from the house to the bins, bending to remove things from the indoor bins, etc. Depending on which aspects are most problematic, some or none of these might help:
- making frequent trips with a light load instead of less frequent trips with heavier loads
- alternatively, using a trash compactor for the recycling (for heavier but less frequent trips)
- eschewing indoor bins altogether and just directly depositing stuff into disposable bags
- using some kind of dolly or cart
- if you have lots of organic waste, maybe some indoor (worm?) composting would work out to less effort?
Wrt indoor assistance: I'd be all too willing to wear one of those serious 99% respirator masks for someone I was helping (and you might be able to wear one too while someone was over). An air purifier (if you can afford it) might also help. It sounds like a visit once a week or two could make a big difference, if it sounds at all possible.
A bidet and washing your face/pits at the sink with a washcloth could help reduce the need for frequent showers. For tooth brushing, would it help to rig up a shelf or table that you could rest your elbow on as you brush?
posted by trig at 12:20 PM on September 3, 2022
This is minor, but it can help to have appropriate chargers placed everywhere in the house that you tend to stop for a while. I have them by my bed, by my favorite living room chair, at my desk, and on my treadmill desk. For me this is a memory thing - I am always forgetting to charge stuff. But it's also super nice to be able to charge my devices wherever I happen to land, without having to get up and go somewhere else to drop them off or fetch them from charging.
If you're a coffee/tea drinker, I would say the same for little mug warming pads - like an ember mug, or something like this mug warmer, or even just a thermos. Helps limit the number of times you get up and go somewhere else for a warm drink.
If laundry is hard, you can buy clothes that don't really need hanging up to stay wrinkle-free and just either leave them in the laundry bag, or sort them into appropriate bags if that's easier (tops, bottoms, underwear, done). Cutting down on clothes is also hugely helpful -- anything you don't love, get rid of; aim for only enough clothes to get you through to the weekend and no more, to avoid having to do multiple loads of laundry. (You also have this internet stranger's permission to skip any clothes you don't need if you're not leaving the house! A robe or a maxi dress or whatever one-piece pull-over type thing that feels gender appropriate to you can be a lifesaver.)
A wheeled cart or wagon type thing can help with moving rubbish if you don't have too many stairs involved in the process. It's quite a way from my front door to where the bins are on the street, and I bought this cart to save myself a trip with the recycling, because there's usually enough of it that otherwise I'd need 2 trips.
Hope this is helpful!
posted by invincible summer at 12:28 PM on September 3, 2022
If you're a coffee/tea drinker, I would say the same for little mug warming pads - like an ember mug, or something like this mug warmer, or even just a thermos. Helps limit the number of times you get up and go somewhere else for a warm drink.
If laundry is hard, you can buy clothes that don't really need hanging up to stay wrinkle-free and just either leave them in the laundry bag, or sort them into appropriate bags if that's easier (tops, bottoms, underwear, done). Cutting down on clothes is also hugely helpful -- anything you don't love, get rid of; aim for only enough clothes to get you through to the weekend and no more, to avoid having to do multiple loads of laundry. (You also have this internet stranger's permission to skip any clothes you don't need if you're not leaving the house! A robe or a maxi dress or whatever one-piece pull-over type thing that feels gender appropriate to you can be a lifesaver.)
A wheeled cart or wagon type thing can help with moving rubbish if you don't have too many stairs involved in the process. It's quite a way from my front door to where the bins are on the street, and I bought this cart to save myself a trip with the recycling, because there's usually enough of it that otherwise I'd need 2 trips.
Hope this is helpful!
posted by invincible summer at 12:28 PM on September 3, 2022
When I was struggling with chronic pain and related fatigue, my laundry solution was small tie-shut bags. I would sort upstairs (2nd floor bedroom) and place a load (often slightly less than a full load, just to ease my own burden) into a bag that I would tie or zip shut. I'd drop that bag at the top of the steps and nudge it with my toe to effectively kick it down the steps, through the living room, around the corner, and down the basement steps to the laundry. (I very often stopped along the way.) I'd dump it in the washer, using concentrated detergent so the bottle wasn't heavy to lift.
I generally did a load once a day so I only had to make the trip once - when I went down, I'd put the dry clothes in the same kind of tie-shut bag, move wet clothes to the dryer, and start a new load of wash.
How I got the clothes upstairs varied depending on how I was feeling on any given day. Sometimes I was able to carry the bag; some days I would sort of hold it by the ties and drag it up with me. I definitely always took breaks on the way up, though. Up was always harder for me than down.
posted by okayokayigive at 12:34 PM on September 3, 2022 [4 favorites]
I generally did a load once a day so I only had to make the trip once - when I went down, I'd put the dry clothes in the same kind of tie-shut bag, move wet clothes to the dryer, and start a new load of wash.
How I got the clothes upstairs varied depending on how I was feeling on any given day. Sometimes I was able to carry the bag; some days I would sort of hold it by the ties and drag it up with me. I definitely always took breaks on the way up, though. Up was always harder for me than down.
posted by okayokayigive at 12:34 PM on September 3, 2022 [4 favorites]
Can you hire any help? For example, in my area, there are services that do laundry starting at $1 per pound.
posted by NotLost at 12:53 PM on September 3, 2022
posted by NotLost at 12:53 PM on September 3, 2022
Lighten the objects you carry each day - smaller lighter water bottle, smaller keychain, wallet, even a purse or bag made of lighter materials. A fannypack may be a better carry option than a bag or purse.
Wear light comfortable shoes- allbirds brand are surprisingly light and comfy.
If you don’t have a built in dishwasher you may be able to get a portable one
Get another hamper or two and pre sort your laundry as you undress (I’ve always found sorting laundry exhausting)
Hire a cleaner for 1-2 hours a week to do just the basics - wipe down the bathroom and kitchen, take out the trash, change & wash the bed linens (making the bed is another weirdly tiring task!), and vacuum / mop the main floor areas.
Maybe every month add an extra hour for an extra random task like cleaning out the fridge, dusting knickknacks, or washing windows etc. Rather than using a cleaning service (more expensive!) you could Try asking for recommendations in a neighbourhood Facebook group. (If the person lives close enough to quickly walk to your house it saves them time and hassle). You’ll likely be able to find someone looking for a short regular job that pays cash, so you can pay them directly instead of giving a cut to a cleaning agency, and thus stretch your cleaning budget further. Where I live minimum wage is $15 / hour, and cleaning agencies are $50+ / hour. I have collected the phone numbers of several local people who are happy to clean for $20-25 / hour, plus I add a tip of $5 per hour. So it’s half the price of an agency!
If your house has stairs - create a system for taking up small random items. Get a few small light bags that are easy for you to carry (dollar store often has some). Small mesh bags are good. Hang a sturdy hook at the top and bottom of your stairs and put a few bags on each hook. Place things in the bags that need to be moved to the other floor of the house. When you go up or down, take a bag along. This allows you to move items up and down as needed without making extra trips.
Get a bussing tray like in a restaurant- a non leaking plastic box windows a size that works for you to carry safely. Use it to take mugs and dishes back to the kitchen.
If you live with someone else you can ask them to be the one who always carries the “elevator” bag up/down - you just fill it up and let them carry it.
Always combine errands. For me a lot of the “energy spend” in going out is getting ready, so you can be more efficient by doing a few errands in a trip.
Make a set number of tasks per day- Maybe you do 2 tasks on an exceptional day and give permission to do just 1 task most days. A load of laundry might count as a task. If I have to go over my set number of tasks for the day I try to build in a rest day the following day.
Talking, podcasts, and music may help you have more energy. Or they may drain you and you find you have more energy if you keep the house silent and wear earplugs. Take note of what helps you feel better (and it might change with certain moods or medical flares etc).
For me eating tons of protein and avoiding sugary drinks helps me feel more energized. Too many carbs, juice, and soda make me feel really tired (maybe my insulin spikes or something). Note how your diet affects your energy and use it as a tool when you can.
I take vitamin b tablets when I need a little boost. And iron supplements (especially intravenous iron periodically) also helps me feel more energized.
Lie down a lot! Your body rests better when horizontal. If you’re tired even if you don’t think you’ll be able to sleep try to lay down and close your eyes. Even if you feel like you’re awake the whole time, your body may be able to have “microsleeps” which are somewhat restorative.
I hope you find good strategies!
posted by nouvelle-personne at 12:59 PM on September 3, 2022 [1 favorite]
Wear light comfortable shoes- allbirds brand are surprisingly light and comfy.
If you don’t have a built in dishwasher you may be able to get a portable one
Get another hamper or two and pre sort your laundry as you undress (I’ve always found sorting laundry exhausting)
Hire a cleaner for 1-2 hours a week to do just the basics - wipe down the bathroom and kitchen, take out the trash, change & wash the bed linens (making the bed is another weirdly tiring task!), and vacuum / mop the main floor areas.
Maybe every month add an extra hour for an extra random task like cleaning out the fridge, dusting knickknacks, or washing windows etc. Rather than using a cleaning service (more expensive!) you could Try asking for recommendations in a neighbourhood Facebook group. (If the person lives close enough to quickly walk to your house it saves them time and hassle). You’ll likely be able to find someone looking for a short regular job that pays cash, so you can pay them directly instead of giving a cut to a cleaning agency, and thus stretch your cleaning budget further. Where I live minimum wage is $15 / hour, and cleaning agencies are $50+ / hour. I have collected the phone numbers of several local people who are happy to clean for $20-25 / hour, plus I add a tip of $5 per hour. So it’s half the price of an agency!
If your house has stairs - create a system for taking up small random items. Get a few small light bags that are easy for you to carry (dollar store often has some). Small mesh bags are good. Hang a sturdy hook at the top and bottom of your stairs and put a few bags on each hook. Place things in the bags that need to be moved to the other floor of the house. When you go up or down, take a bag along. This allows you to move items up and down as needed without making extra trips.
Get a bussing tray like in a restaurant- a non leaking plastic box windows a size that works for you to carry safely. Use it to take mugs and dishes back to the kitchen.
If you live with someone else you can ask them to be the one who always carries the “elevator” bag up/down - you just fill it up and let them carry it.
Always combine errands. For me a lot of the “energy spend” in going out is getting ready, so you can be more efficient by doing a few errands in a trip.
Make a set number of tasks per day- Maybe you do 2 tasks on an exceptional day and give permission to do just 1 task most days. A load of laundry might count as a task. If I have to go over my set number of tasks for the day I try to build in a rest day the following day.
Talking, podcasts, and music may help you have more energy. Or they may drain you and you find you have more energy if you keep the house silent and wear earplugs. Take note of what helps you feel better (and it might change with certain moods or medical flares etc).
For me eating tons of protein and avoiding sugary drinks helps me feel more energized. Too many carbs, juice, and soda make me feel really tired (maybe my insulin spikes or something). Note how your diet affects your energy and use it as a tool when you can.
I take vitamin b tablets when I need a little boost. And iron supplements (especially intravenous iron periodically) also helps me feel more energized.
Lie down a lot! Your body rests better when horizontal. If you’re tired even if you don’t think you’ll be able to sleep try to lay down and close your eyes. Even if you feel like you’re awake the whole time, your body may be able to have “microsleeps” which are somewhat restorative.
I hope you find good strategies!
posted by nouvelle-personne at 12:59 PM on September 3, 2022 [1 favorite]
you can get a goose neck holder for a phone or tablet if you like to read or watch stuff while lying down - it will suspend the device over you.
I suggested a cleaner above - maybe you can find a way for a cleaner to feel safe- ask them to test on arrival or before coming (you could even provide the test, have them do it at the door and wait 15 mins before entering. Pay them for the delay time and if they test positive, pay them for the session anyway and let them leave) , wear an N95 that you supply, clean with windows open and an air filter running, and you go out of the house while they clean and stay out for an hour or so afterwards? Some of these protocols are more careful than many people are used to, but if you explain that you have a medical condition, I’m sure you can find somebody who will be happy to accommodate them, especially if they are paid for the extra time it takes. I found somebody while I was pregnant who followed some of these particles
posted by nouvelle-personne at 1:07 PM on September 3, 2022
I suggested a cleaner above - maybe you can find a way for a cleaner to feel safe- ask them to test on arrival or before coming (you could even provide the test, have them do it at the door and wait 15 mins before entering. Pay them for the delay time and if they test positive, pay them for the session anyway and let them leave) , wear an N95 that you supply, clean with windows open and an air filter running, and you go out of the house while they clean and stay out for an hour or so afterwards? Some of these protocols are more careful than many people are used to, but if you explain that you have a medical condition, I’m sure you can find somebody who will be happy to accommodate them, especially if they are paid for the extra time it takes. I found somebody while I was pregnant who followed some of these particles
posted by nouvelle-personne at 1:07 PM on September 3, 2022
If your laundry is in your home, you can use the washer as a hamper and the dryer as a closet and just use that space as a closet. You actually don't need to fold ANYTHING. Just sort it into clean clothes hampers. You can use hangers if you are feeling ambition.
How to Keep House While Drowning by KC Davis is a great, great book for workable self-care tactics when you are struggling, even if "when you are struggling" is "all the time, permanently."
posted by DarlingBri at 1:17 PM on September 3, 2022 [4 favorites]
How to Keep House While Drowning by KC Davis is a great, great book for workable self-care tactics when you are struggling, even if "when you are struggling" is "all the time, permanently."
posted by DarlingBri at 1:17 PM on September 3, 2022 [4 favorites]
Some thoughts:
Recycling/rubbish
*Stop with the recycling and combine all trash. I give you permission and absolve you of any guilt.
*Smaller and more frequent taking out to the receptacles or save it all for one big load.
*If you bag food waste, the garbage smell can be contained, and allow you more time between removal.
*I recently had a food delivery person do a quick thing for me for five bucks. So, consider asking them to take you garbage out for a fiver. This may or may not be feasible but wanted to mention it.
Laundry
*Get larger laundry basket(s) to store dirty clothes without creating a mess for the times you just can’t get it done.
*Instead of putting clothes into drawers or closets, use multiple laundry baskets to house lightly used clothes that can be worn again, clothes to be washed, sleeping clothes, underwear, etc..
* Have enough clothes so you can go for several weeks without doing laundry.
Loading dishwasher
*Have enough dishware to not run out. Dump stuff in across a few days, and then when ready to run, do some straightening up. *Can you avoid unloading/putting away stuff? Just take the mug out of the dishwasher directly, for example.
Teeth
*Use dental sticks, floss or whatever while you are sitting or in bed. Keep a small receptacle for used ones.
* Use mouth wash for a quick rinse.
*A tongue scraper is quick and helps with mouth hygiene.
Showering-
*When you cannot shower, wipe down your arm pits with a wet washcloth, soap optional.
*Keep hair covered/pulled back—this helps with keeping it clean and not so bothersome when it is needing a wash.
*There are people who eschew shampoo entirely, so that is an option.
posted by rhonzo at 2:31 PM on September 3, 2022 [1 favorite]
Recycling/rubbish
*Stop with the recycling and combine all trash. I give you permission and absolve you of any guilt.
*Smaller and more frequent taking out to the receptacles or save it all for one big load.
*If you bag food waste, the garbage smell can be contained, and allow you more time between removal.
*I recently had a food delivery person do a quick thing for me for five bucks. So, consider asking them to take you garbage out for a fiver. This may or may not be feasible but wanted to mention it.
Laundry
*Get larger laundry basket(s) to store dirty clothes without creating a mess for the times you just can’t get it done.
*Instead of putting clothes into drawers or closets, use multiple laundry baskets to house lightly used clothes that can be worn again, clothes to be washed, sleeping clothes, underwear, etc..
* Have enough clothes so you can go for several weeks without doing laundry.
Loading dishwasher
*Have enough dishware to not run out. Dump stuff in across a few days, and then when ready to run, do some straightening up. *Can you avoid unloading/putting away stuff? Just take the mug out of the dishwasher directly, for example.
Teeth
*Use dental sticks, floss or whatever while you are sitting or in bed. Keep a small receptacle for used ones.
* Use mouth wash for a quick rinse.
*A tongue scraper is quick and helps with mouth hygiene.
Showering-
*When you cannot shower, wipe down your arm pits with a wet washcloth, soap optional.
*Keep hair covered/pulled back—this helps with keeping it clean and not so bothersome when it is needing a wash.
*There are people who eschew shampoo entirely, so that is an option.
posted by rhonzo at 2:31 PM on September 3, 2022 [1 favorite]
A wire or plastic tub cart might help for laundry etc, one shelf/tub would be around counter height and the lower one about level with a front loading laundry machine door.
posted by snuffleupagus at 2:49 PM on September 3, 2022
posted by snuffleupagus at 2:49 PM on September 3, 2022
Instead of taking the time to sort laundry, get either a multi-compartment hamper or different baskets to put in different types of clothes.
posted by NotLost at 3:11 PM on September 3, 2022
posted by NotLost at 3:11 PM on September 3, 2022
A height-adjustable rolling stool with a foot rest so you can comfortably sit doing dishes or preparing food but also drop low enough to load the dishwasher. My MIL has chronic Lyme disease and this has been a game changer for her.
posted by ananci at 3:47 PM on September 3, 2022
posted by ananci at 3:47 PM on September 3, 2022
Trading tasks? Whatever you do for yourself now, a friend, family member, or neighbor might not be able to do, or want to do, for themselves.
(Someone might gladly exchange dealing with a customer service phone line for taking a trash bag from outside your door to the curb.)
If you don't have a washing machine in your home, there are small portable/countertop versions. (Sure, change undies every day -- creates a small load of laundry -- but if you're mostly at home right now, consider a robe or other lounge garment. Also, buy more underwear.)
There are laundry pick up and return services.
Rinse-free body wipes, shampoo cloths (or dry shampoo) to skip a shower.
posted by Iris Gambol at 4:17 PM on September 3, 2022
(Someone might gladly exchange dealing with a customer service phone line for taking a trash bag from outside your door to the curb.)
If you don't have a washing machine in your home, there are small portable/countertop versions. (Sure, change undies every day -- creates a small load of laundry -- but if you're mostly at home right now, consider a robe or other lounge garment. Also, buy more underwear.)
There are laundry pick up and return services.
Rinse-free body wipes, shampoo cloths (or dry shampoo) to skip a shower.
posted by Iris Gambol at 4:17 PM on September 3, 2022
Meals/dishes: I've always used canned soup as my go-to no-effort meal, but the downside is it requires a clean bowl, and makes a dirty dish out of it. So lately I've been doing a lot more individual frozen dinners. You pop them in the microwave for 4-7 minutes, let cool for a couple of minutes and eat it right out of the plastic container (with a plastic fork.) Tons of variety these days and you can get everything from healthy diet dinners to fried chicken.
Toothbrushing: I keep a pack of dental floss and cotton swabs near every place in my house I spend time. I have sensory issues where feeling anything between my teeth drives me crazy, so I floss after every single time I eat. Sometimes I'll notice my teeth feel filmy so I'll grab a few cotton swabs and or a paper towel and wipe them down. If you want to make sure your breath is fresh after using this method, keep a pack of sugar-free mints or gum nearby as well.
Showering: dry shampoo and baby wipes are your friend. You could even freshen up from bed if you keep wipes, dry shampoo, a comb and a trashcan nearby. If you happen to be a person with a vulva, pantyliners can help keep your undies fresh longer if you can't change them every day.
General conservation of effort: get a grabber tool to keep by your bed, recliner and anywhere else you spend a lot of time. They are useful for if you drop the remote, your glasses, the phone charger, etc. and can save you a lot of bending and stooping. I keep a pair of large cooking tongs near my computer desk area as I am shoved into a corner with my desk and shelves in such a way that dropping anything is a minor ordeal to retrieve. With my tongs I can easily pick up my dropped pen or the papers the cat knocked onto the floor or the piece of trash I threw at the trashcan and missed. And speaking of trash cans, I keep a trash receptacle nearby every place I spend time, so I can throw away my dental floss and other miscellaneous bits and pieces of trash without having to get up.
posted by Serene Empress Dork at 4:40 PM on September 3, 2022 [1 favorite]
Toothbrushing: I keep a pack of dental floss and cotton swabs near every place in my house I spend time. I have sensory issues where feeling anything between my teeth drives me crazy, so I floss after every single time I eat. Sometimes I'll notice my teeth feel filmy so I'll grab a few cotton swabs and or a paper towel and wipe them down. If you want to make sure your breath is fresh after using this method, keep a pack of sugar-free mints or gum nearby as well.
Showering: dry shampoo and baby wipes are your friend. You could even freshen up from bed if you keep wipes, dry shampoo, a comb and a trashcan nearby. If you happen to be a person with a vulva, pantyliners can help keep your undies fresh longer if you can't change them every day.
General conservation of effort: get a grabber tool to keep by your bed, recliner and anywhere else you spend a lot of time. They are useful for if you drop the remote, your glasses, the phone charger, etc. and can save you a lot of bending and stooping. I keep a pair of large cooking tongs near my computer desk area as I am shoved into a corner with my desk and shelves in such a way that dropping anything is a minor ordeal to retrieve. With my tongs I can easily pick up my dropped pen or the papers the cat knocked onto the floor or the piece of trash I threw at the trashcan and missed. And speaking of trash cans, I keep a trash receptacle nearby every place I spend time, so I can throw away my dental floss and other miscellaneous bits and pieces of trash without having to get up.
posted by Serene Empress Dork at 4:40 PM on September 3, 2022 [1 favorite]
For showering: buy thinner towels (they're lighter).
posted by brainwane at 4:57 PM on September 3, 2022 [1 favorite]
posted by brainwane at 4:57 PM on September 3, 2022 [1 favorite]
Microwave cooking using anyday pans could save you some time and effort and keep your nutrition up.
posted by metatuesday at 7:02 PM on September 3, 2022
posted by metatuesday at 7:02 PM on September 3, 2022
For the garbage/recycling can you just throw it into the bin from whatever closest window? (Also taking it to and from the curb is something I would happily do for a neighbor, but perhaps logistics don’t allow for that)
posted by raccoon409 at 7:24 PM on September 3, 2022
posted by raccoon409 at 7:24 PM on September 3, 2022
Seconding the possibility of using a wheelchair. My uncle used a wheelchair constantly for maybe the last 40 years of his life. He could walk, but it was painful. He'd load it in his trunk, walk around the car, get it out & set it up, then push it in wherever he was going, then sit it in, roll around short distances or get up and push the chair longer distances. So it was something of a combination walker, convenient chair for wherever he happened to be (even if there was normally no place for him to sit there), and also a convenient way to carry loads around.
Along those same lines, a walker is far, far cheaper and can fulfill some of those same functions around the house. You can lean on it a bit, sit down on it wherever you are and whenever you want, and it can be used to tote small loads around.
My parents are at the age where they have them strategically located all around the house. When I'm visiting I actually use them quite a bit. I think of them more as convenient small carrying carts for inside.
You can look at a bunch of different types here (Amazon). The ones I'm thinking of are more with the seat and baskets etc.
Three more thoughts:
- If you have stairs, a stair lift makes a huge difference. They are expensive but really not as expensive as I had imagined. They are useful not only for hoisting you up & down stairs, but also loads of e.g. laundry and trash.
- Sturdy grab bars can make a huge difference in ease of showering, getting up & down from the toilet, even tooth brushing etc (because you have something sturdy to hold onto to anchor yourself, and also get up & down if you need to).
- RE: trash and recycling, I wonder if that is one place you could find or hire help. That is one thing where maybe they could come in once a week and handle it top to bottom while you hide in your back room, or outside somewhere, with a mask on. OR your job is just to get it outside your door and the helper can handle it all from there - getting it in the can, taking that out to the curb or whatever else you have to do with it from that point.
posted by flug at 7:39 PM on September 3, 2022
Along those same lines, a walker is far, far cheaper and can fulfill some of those same functions around the house. You can lean on it a bit, sit down on it wherever you are and whenever you want, and it can be used to tote small loads around.
My parents are at the age where they have them strategically located all around the house. When I'm visiting I actually use them quite a bit. I think of them more as convenient small carrying carts for inside.
You can look at a bunch of different types here (Amazon). The ones I'm thinking of are more with the seat and baskets etc.
Three more thoughts:
- If you have stairs, a stair lift makes a huge difference. They are expensive but really not as expensive as I had imagined. They are useful not only for hoisting you up & down stairs, but also loads of e.g. laundry and trash.
- Sturdy grab bars can make a huge difference in ease of showering, getting up & down from the toilet, even tooth brushing etc (because you have something sturdy to hold onto to anchor yourself, and also get up & down if you need to).
- RE: trash and recycling, I wonder if that is one place you could find or hire help. That is one thing where maybe they could come in once a week and handle it top to bottom while you hide in your back room, or outside somewhere, with a mask on. OR your job is just to get it outside your door and the helper can handle it all from there - getting it in the can, taking that out to the curb or whatever else you have to do with it from that point.
posted by flug at 7:39 PM on September 3, 2022
Wild Zora brand makes high quality shelf stable foods that are great if you have conditions that are toxin sensitive. The lemon chicken soup and the Mediterranean lamb meat and veggie bars are both fabulous and the latter doesn't need any preparation.
Economy of movement. When my fatigue and joint pain are worse I think through where I'm going and what I need/want, within my own home, so I can do all those things at once. This isn't so much about chores but minor desires. If I save the movement of getting up and down five times by doing all the minor things on one trip, I've got a couple more spoons for other things.
Minimalism and moving towards zero waste help. The less I have the less I have to manage. This is kitchen stuff, clothing, anything really. Zero waste means repurposing things so there's less to send out of the house and thinking how to get multipurpose items. That latter idea is a work in progress but it is a way I strive to marry my values with the realities of needing to do less.
If you don't want to get disposable dishes etc then one set for eating that you rinse and set on a drain rack after each meal, plus instant pot or slow cooker can reduce your dishwashing needs significantly.
If money isn't a difficult area you might also consider a chronic illness subscription box. Chronic illness can be depressing and it's nice to get a gift to lighten your mood once a month.
And yes I have a walker. I got a walker for waiting around in airports. Walking is ok but just standing around can be incredibly draining. It's ok to get the tools made for someone in your position.
posted by crunchy potato at 9:25 PM on September 3, 2022
Economy of movement. When my fatigue and joint pain are worse I think through where I'm going and what I need/want, within my own home, so I can do all those things at once. This isn't so much about chores but minor desires. If I save the movement of getting up and down five times by doing all the minor things on one trip, I've got a couple more spoons for other things.
Minimalism and moving towards zero waste help. The less I have the less I have to manage. This is kitchen stuff, clothing, anything really. Zero waste means repurposing things so there's less to send out of the house and thinking how to get multipurpose items. That latter idea is a work in progress but it is a way I strive to marry my values with the realities of needing to do less.
If you don't want to get disposable dishes etc then one set for eating that you rinse and set on a drain rack after each meal, plus instant pot or slow cooker can reduce your dishwashing needs significantly.
If money isn't a difficult area you might also consider a chronic illness subscription box. Chronic illness can be depressing and it's nice to get a gift to lighten your mood once a month.
And yes I have a walker. I got a walker for waiting around in airports. Walking is ok but just standing around can be incredibly draining. It's ok to get the tools made for someone in your position.
posted by crunchy potato at 9:25 PM on September 3, 2022
Mr t0astie and I both have health conditions that sap our energy to varying degrees and use a lot of energy saving hacks and devices. Roomba's are great - it's fantastic you have one!
I think most things we do to save energy have been mentioned, but I have a few specific brands and suggestions for Australia. (It looks like you might be in Aus?)
Meal service: Soulara. Vegan meals, lots of vegetables, filling and nutritious, higher protein options available. Meal service success depends on your personal taste and budget, but these have been the nicest of the ones we tried, delivery is consistent and reliable, quality is high, taste is yummy. For extra energy saving, microwave and eat out of the container with a disposable fork or spoon. No washing up or dishwasher. You can get a week at a time. That is one meal and lot of washing up you don't have to worry about.
Dry shampoo: Redken Pillow Proof - invisible, you don't need a lot. Makes hair actually feel clean not tacky, and lasts a while. No offensive smell. I've used this when showering has just been really exhausting and I need to look presentable for work.
Shower alternative: Rinse-free medical wipes. I haven't used this specific brand, but I have used others and they are fantastic. Lots of options on Amazon.
Cooking: This one is controversial because it can be a bit cult-y and also it's very expensive, but getting a Thermomix has massively increased my ability to cook and prepare food for myself. For me it was removing the cognitive load (the recipes are in the machine, machine syncs with app, you can export recipe ingredients direct to Woolworths app for online shopping) and also allowing me to step away from the stove and sit down while it boiled eggs or heated and stirred a soup - or whatever. Thermomix isn't the only option - the Bellini is heaps cheaper and is meant to be fantastic, but no onboard recipes. Magimix and Tefal also make versions. The multicooker may need more energy than you have in which case, disregard.
I use a rice cooker a lot too - you can make a big batch and freeze so you always have rice in 2 mins in the microwave. I have this Tiger one and it is orders of magnitude easier than the stove or microwave. Before that, I had a smaller, very cheap one like this for 10+ years and it was perfectly fine. They're very easy to clean - just rinse and wipe out.
General cleaning up: I have just given up on my previous regime of sweeping and wet-mopping floors. Instead, we use the Roomba downstairs, and upstairs I use a broom and this USB chargeable Xaomi mini vac. I was surprised by how effective it is and how powerful the suction. I just do a tiny bit at a time. The crumbs in front of the couch one day, a skirting board the next. When I sweep, I use the vac instead of a dustpan and brush.
For dusting/wiping/kitchen stuff, paper towels all the way. It still feels wasteful, but no way am I washing anything I don't have to. The Kirkland ones from Costco are massive, strong, and pretty cheap.
Dishwasher: We've rationalised our plates and cutlery down to two each so washing up doesn't build up. (There was a real dishes situation for a while because it was just so much effort.) If it's just you, as well as minimizing what goes in with disposables, could you chunk emptying into smaller batches instead of doing it all in one go? So, first go, just put the cutlery away. Or if that's too much, put the forks away. Next go, put away the next thing.
Dental hygiene: If you go the option of having floss and interdental brushes everywhere, Piksters (get the 00 size to start) are easy to get hold of. Depending on how easy or not you find the brushes these hand-held flossers by Piksters could be a better solution. And if your mouth feels gross, or you experience bad breath inside your mask, Eclipse mints are pretty good.
Laundry: I no longer fold much, just pile it all in to drawers, flat, and take one from the top of the pile. I dry things that can be hung up already on their hangers so just move the hanger from the line to the wardrobe. Also we pre-sort laundry into coloured clothes, darks and whites. I put socks in net bags to minimize effort in separating them from the rest of the wash. Pair them on the line (or pin together when you take them off and put them in the bag) and the lay them flat in your drawer.
Having people in to help: I know you said you're not, but I see a lot of people suggesting it, so I'm going to set out what we do, and how we balance it. It's difficult and just might not be a solution for you. We are also in perpetual COVID-safe mode, and manage by only having someone in only every three months to deep clean and by implementing some pretty strict ventilation protocols when they're here. The cleaners wear n95 masks. We wear n95s plus goggles and have every door and window open, a tower fan in every room, on blast, and two XL air purifiers going non-stop. We keep everything open and fans/purifiers running for an hour after they've left. TBH I think the biggest barrier is that it is just a HUGE energy suck to do this. For us the trade off is OK. If our fatigue were more severe, I don't know that it would be worth it because it is an ordeal on so many levels from hiring and coordinating to set up and packdown of the mitigations to managing an n95 with no food or water for four hours when you are sick and exhausted.
The bin thing might be achievable with minimum effort and no contact via Airtasker. If you can get the rubbish bags and recycling to outside the door, the Airtasker person can put everything in the bins, take the bins to the kerb, and bring them back in. If the person you get to Airtask does a good job, see if you can hire them directly to do this for you once a week.
posted by t0astie at 11:15 PM on September 3, 2022 [1 favorite]
I think most things we do to save energy have been mentioned, but I have a few specific brands and suggestions for Australia. (It looks like you might be in Aus?)
Meal service: Soulara. Vegan meals, lots of vegetables, filling and nutritious, higher protein options available. Meal service success depends on your personal taste and budget, but these have been the nicest of the ones we tried, delivery is consistent and reliable, quality is high, taste is yummy. For extra energy saving, microwave and eat out of the container with a disposable fork or spoon. No washing up or dishwasher. You can get a week at a time. That is one meal and lot of washing up you don't have to worry about.
Dry shampoo: Redken Pillow Proof - invisible, you don't need a lot. Makes hair actually feel clean not tacky, and lasts a while. No offensive smell. I've used this when showering has just been really exhausting and I need to look presentable for work.
Shower alternative: Rinse-free medical wipes. I haven't used this specific brand, but I have used others and they are fantastic. Lots of options on Amazon.
Cooking: This one is controversial because it can be a bit cult-y and also it's very expensive, but getting a Thermomix has massively increased my ability to cook and prepare food for myself. For me it was removing the cognitive load (the recipes are in the machine, machine syncs with app, you can export recipe ingredients direct to Woolworths app for online shopping) and also allowing me to step away from the stove and sit down while it boiled eggs or heated and stirred a soup - or whatever. Thermomix isn't the only option - the Bellini is heaps cheaper and is meant to be fantastic, but no onboard recipes. Magimix and Tefal also make versions. The multicooker may need more energy than you have in which case, disregard.
I use a rice cooker a lot too - you can make a big batch and freeze so you always have rice in 2 mins in the microwave. I have this Tiger one and it is orders of magnitude easier than the stove or microwave. Before that, I had a smaller, very cheap one like this for 10+ years and it was perfectly fine. They're very easy to clean - just rinse and wipe out.
General cleaning up: I have just given up on my previous regime of sweeping and wet-mopping floors. Instead, we use the Roomba downstairs, and upstairs I use a broom and this USB chargeable Xaomi mini vac. I was surprised by how effective it is and how powerful the suction. I just do a tiny bit at a time. The crumbs in front of the couch one day, a skirting board the next. When I sweep, I use the vac instead of a dustpan and brush.
For dusting/wiping/kitchen stuff, paper towels all the way. It still feels wasteful, but no way am I washing anything I don't have to. The Kirkland ones from Costco are massive, strong, and pretty cheap.
Dishwasher: We've rationalised our plates and cutlery down to two each so washing up doesn't build up. (There was a real dishes situation for a while because it was just so much effort.) If it's just you, as well as minimizing what goes in with disposables, could you chunk emptying into smaller batches instead of doing it all in one go? So, first go, just put the cutlery away. Or if that's too much, put the forks away. Next go, put away the next thing.
Dental hygiene: If you go the option of having floss and interdental brushes everywhere, Piksters (get the 00 size to start) are easy to get hold of. Depending on how easy or not you find the brushes these hand-held flossers by Piksters could be a better solution. And if your mouth feels gross, or you experience bad breath inside your mask, Eclipse mints are pretty good.
Laundry: I no longer fold much, just pile it all in to drawers, flat, and take one from the top of the pile. I dry things that can be hung up already on their hangers so just move the hanger from the line to the wardrobe. Also we pre-sort laundry into coloured clothes, darks and whites. I put socks in net bags to minimize effort in separating them from the rest of the wash. Pair them on the line (or pin together when you take them off and put them in the bag) and the lay them flat in your drawer.
Having people in to help: I know you said you're not, but I see a lot of people suggesting it, so I'm going to set out what we do, and how we balance it. It's difficult and just might not be a solution for you. We are also in perpetual COVID-safe mode, and manage by only having someone in only every three months to deep clean and by implementing some pretty strict ventilation protocols when they're here. The cleaners wear n95 masks. We wear n95s plus goggles and have every door and window open, a tower fan in every room, on blast, and two XL air purifiers going non-stop. We keep everything open and fans/purifiers running for an hour after they've left. TBH I think the biggest barrier is that it is just a HUGE energy suck to do this. For us the trade off is OK. If our fatigue were more severe, I don't know that it would be worth it because it is an ordeal on so many levels from hiring and coordinating to set up and packdown of the mitigations to managing an n95 with no food or water for four hours when you are sick and exhausted.
The bin thing might be achievable with minimum effort and no contact via Airtasker. If you can get the rubbish bags and recycling to outside the door, the Airtasker person can put everything in the bins, take the bins to the kerb, and bring them back in. If the person you get to Airtask does a good job, see if you can hire them directly to do this for you once a week.
posted by t0astie at 11:15 PM on September 3, 2022 [1 favorite]
This is very individual (as I see from the answers so far!).
I think the main thing to do to conserve energy is to do less: this means I don't do everything I would like to, when I would like to, nor do I do it as completely or as fast.
When I do do something, I do it in the least energy intensive way to further save energy - proper ergonomics, sit instead of stand, using aids/tools - and schedule it, including scheduling breaks and sequencing the task. Mornings are best for me, so I try to do important things then. I break up tasks a lot - sometimes over hours or days - and I recline and nap regularly.
Sleeping isn't strictly conserving energy, but its what gets me through a day. I go to bed early and I nap at least once a day. I also recline (lie down) and lean into backrests when sitting.
I think of physical, mental/intellectual, and social/emotional energy. If I use only one of these, and switch from one to another, it is easier for me. For example, if I did something physical, I might need to recline now to rest, but might be able talk on the phone.
Key words for searching information in addition to pacing as mentioned above are 'fatigue management', which is something an occupational therapist can often help with where I live.
Again, not strictly conserving energy, but medication can help (IANYD but you could speak to yours).
posted by narcissus_and_ambrosia at 11:52 AM on September 4, 2022
I think the main thing to do to conserve energy is to do less: this means I don't do everything I would like to, when I would like to, nor do I do it as completely or as fast.
When I do do something, I do it in the least energy intensive way to further save energy - proper ergonomics, sit instead of stand, using aids/tools - and schedule it, including scheduling breaks and sequencing the task. Mornings are best for me, so I try to do important things then. I break up tasks a lot - sometimes over hours or days - and I recline and nap regularly.
Sleeping isn't strictly conserving energy, but its what gets me through a day. I go to bed early and I nap at least once a day. I also recline (lie down) and lean into backrests when sitting.
I think of physical, mental/intellectual, and social/emotional energy. If I use only one of these, and switch from one to another, it is easier for me. For example, if I did something physical, I might need to recline now to rest, but might be able talk on the phone.
Key words for searching information in addition to pacing as mentioned above are 'fatigue management', which is something an occupational therapist can often help with where I live.
Again, not strictly conserving energy, but medication can help (IANYD but you could speak to yours).
posted by narcissus_and_ambrosia at 11:52 AM on September 4, 2022
Toothbrushing - we mostly think of toothbrushing while leaning over a sink with plenty of toothpaste and then lots of slobber & drool etc generated by that process.
But . . . you can do a whole lot with dry brushing plus (as mentioned above) flossing etc. And this can all be done while sitting, reclining, or even pretty much prone in bed. Also, it can be more easily spread over a period of time with a dry brushing approach - like brush upper right rear, rest 5-10 minutes, then upper left rear, then rest, etc etc.
Maybe all you do at the sink is rinse and spit with some fluoride mouthwash once or twice a day. Or you quickly brush on a small amount of flouride toothpaste and just leave it (the type of thing various oral health groups recommend anyway). Either one takes just a few seconds.
You can also find ideas for mouth care by googling something like "toothbrushing with disability" or "toothbrushing with limited dexterity". (I realize you don't really fit into either of those categories, but they are large populations of people who have trouble wth oral care so solutions have been developed.) A few of them:
- A triple-bristle toothbrush that cuts toothbrushing time by 2/3s. (I'm about to order one of these for me . . . )
- Visit the dentist more frequently. Perhaps your dentist could arrange cleanings (only) once or twice between regular 6-month dental visits.
- Ask your dentist or hygienist for specific suggestions.
- A bunch of ideas & tips here
posted by flug at 11:20 AM on September 6, 2022
But . . . you can do a whole lot with dry brushing plus (as mentioned above) flossing etc. And this can all be done while sitting, reclining, or even pretty much prone in bed. Also, it can be more easily spread over a period of time with a dry brushing approach - like brush upper right rear, rest 5-10 minutes, then upper left rear, then rest, etc etc.
Maybe all you do at the sink is rinse and spit with some fluoride mouthwash once or twice a day. Or you quickly brush on a small amount of flouride toothpaste and just leave it (the type of thing various oral health groups recommend anyway). Either one takes just a few seconds.
You can also find ideas for mouth care by googling something like "toothbrushing with disability" or "toothbrushing with limited dexterity". (I realize you don't really fit into either of those categories, but they are large populations of people who have trouble wth oral care so solutions have been developed.) A few of them:
- A triple-bristle toothbrush that cuts toothbrushing time by 2/3s. (I'm about to order one of these for me . . . )
- Visit the dentist more frequently. Perhaps your dentist could arrange cleanings (only) once or twice between regular 6-month dental visits.
- Ask your dentist or hygienist for specific suggestions.
- A bunch of ideas & tips here
posted by flug at 11:20 AM on September 6, 2022
This thread is closed to new comments.
As someone who also has a similarly-limiting illness, I know that these things need to be highly personalized, so it's very hard to make suggestions without knowing which areas are problems for you and to what degree.
posted by ssg at 9:53 AM on September 3, 2022 [1 favorite]