Hello everyone 
I've joined because I care for my mum who has RA and osteoporosis.
With RA my mum's hands have become deformed and as such can't cut her own nails. I know what you're that could cut them but because of the fingers/hands it's very difficult.
Does anyone have any tips for cutting nails as my mum's nails are becoming talons.
Any advice or help most appreciated -thank you
*missed out the word thinking oops
Hi
Sorry to hear that your mum has issues with her hands. As a beautician i would say clippers may be the best & safer option for you to use to get the length down and then file the jagged nail into shape or to soften the edges. Would a heat treatment such as mitts help to ease her hands to allow enough movement prior to cutting them? Or is she in constant flare up?
Thanks Misslovely. That was super quick-thank you. My mum's hands have very little movement best way describe to describe it, is locked in to the palms both hands.
I appreciate your response that was kind of you -thank you
Maybe soak the finger tips in warm water to soften the nails before clipping. If they have curled over you could ask for an appt to see the practice nurse or pref District Nurse to do an initial cut so they then just have to be maintained. Unfortunately podiatrists don't do them as not covered by insurance and specialising in feet. Shame as they would do it well!
Thank you -much appreciated
What a lovely daughter you are. 😍
Thanks Nettienet. <cough Son cough>
Oops sorry! 😁
Hiya ViscountBiscuit. I'm sorry your mum's hands have been so affected. Two things spring to mind. Firstly, if she's able to have a bath cut her nails when she gets out, the nails will have absorbed the water making them easier to cut. If she's unable to have a bath try soaking them in warm water with a pump or two of hand wash, in a bowl deep enough to cover all her nails. After a few minutes try cutting her little fingernail, if it doesn't cut easily soak a while longer & repeat. When you can cut with a good pair of clippers or scissors, they need to be fit for the job so it's worth investing in a reasonable pair, examples of the type here amazon.co.uk/gp/search/ref=...
When you file them into shape use a crystal nail file rather than an emery board, that way the edge of the nail won't be jagged & risk catching or taking up water again if she puts her hands in water soon after. They will also seal better with a crystal file. If she likes to have them varnished leave it for around half an hour, if you do them straight away the varnish won't last as long & may chip easily too.
Hope some of this helps & it's not such an effort next time.
Thanks very much nomoreheels. I appreciate this and the link provided.
Lucky mum! How thoughtful are you! X
Hi Everyone. Thanks so much for all your responses. You all seem like a nice bunch. You've all been helpful and nice. I'm grateful to each of you.
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