Jar-Lid Squeezes
Opening the jar yourself
- Position
- Seated
- Takes
- 3 minutes
- How much
- 10 squeezes each hand, twice a day
Why this one
Grip strength predicts independence better than almost any other simple measure, and it fades without announcing itself. Jar lids and car doors are the early warning — this is the answer to both, done in front of the television.
How to do it
Start with the softest putty in the set. Roll it into a thick sausage and wrap your hand around it.
Squeeze slowly, pressing your fingers into the putty, and hold for two seconds.
Open your hand slowly — the release matters as much as the squeeze. Roll the putty back into shape.
Do ten, swap hands, and repeat.
Watch for
Holding your breath. Breathe out on the squeeze — it is a small thing that keeps blood pressure steadier.
Make it easier
Use the extra-soft putty and do five.
Make it harder
Move to the next firmness up (check the label, not the colour), or hold each squeeze for five seconds.
More for strengthening
Heel and Toe Raises
Steadier footing on uneven ground and curbs
Nothing to buy
How to do it
Seated Row
Pulling a door open, and standing straighter doing it
Uses Figure-8 band with handles
How to do it