- Consider buying larger handled/lightweight cutlery which you might find easier to use.
- If you are unable to access adapted cutlery, consider wrapping elastic bands around your cutlery handles to help increase size of handle and offer improved grip.
- If using cutlery in both hands you may find it easier to use knife to cut with your stronger hand. Consider gripping fork vertically with weaker hand to stabilise food during cutting, which may enable you to apply more force.
- Ensure that you are sitting as upright as possible and your body is well supported when eating, as this will improve the function of your hands. Consider putting pillows/cushions at your back or at your sides.
- Consider using a bean bag tray on your lap when eating meals if this enables a more comfortable surface height to eat from. Bean bag trays without handles will enable easier access to tray when eating . A cushion on your lap may also work if you do not have access to a bean bag tray.
- A small cushion under your elbow, and hinging from your elbow can make it easier to lift your hand to your mouth.
- To help keep your plate secure when eating consider purchasing some “non-slip matting” or “dycem”, which can be placed under your plate/bowl. A damp cloth under plate/bowl may also work.
- If you are struggling to use cutlery, finger foods may be more manageable when you are tired e.g. sandwiches, slices of pizza, carrot sticks etc.
- If fatigue worsens as the day goes on, try having your main meal at lunchtime rather than in the evening.
- Consider putting soup in a mug which may be easier than eating with a spoon.
- Try to rest before meal times if eating is tiring, to help conserve your energy prior to task.
- If you are struggling to finish full meal, do as much as you can yourself to help maintain current function, before carer/family steps in to support you.
- If you have increased tremor in your hands, see the link below for some general tremor management tips https://www.mstrust.org.uk/news/views-and-comments/dealing-ataxia-and-tremor
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