I am not sure "Layout" is a device but I keep things I use more often in the kitchen on lower shelves so I don't have to reach.

I have a device that opens jar lids and use it.

When a package says "tear here" I use a scissors. I have scissors stashed in several places for fast access.

Shopping carts in stores are used to carry my purse and to prop on when tired and I need a rest.

I ask for wheelchairs in airports.

I have containers where I keep tools so I don't have to expend extra energy fetching them each time I need them to use them.

I consider my BIPAP machine an assistive devise. It is mandatory at night but I also use it when my breathing gets too weak and I am waiting for meds to kick in.

Angie, like you I do have a handicap placard for parking and I do use it when I'm not doing well and it is a real help. I was initially against it (pride mostly) but my neurologist had the form ready to go and it does make sense to have it when needed.

Marie, layout is a tool and a skill. Thinking ahead like that is certainly a great idea and does help to save energy, I have without realizing it have been doing just that in my kitchen. Most of the commonly used items have been moved to an easier to reach place.

What's the expression...."Work smarter, not harder"

Joe

Stools!, the kind you sit on lol. Someone earlier posted about having stools around for when you HAVE to sit. I now have one in the garage, one at the bottom of the basement stairs, one in my bathroom and one in the kitchen. They have made a big difference to me.

Check out tips for daily living in the links group. there is also a discussion about working with MG. Add your ideas there or to this discussion and they can be linked in.

Here is the Link to the tips:

http://www.dailystrength.org/groups/myasthenia-gravis-links-and-news/discussions/messages/14145246

b.

One almost wants to set up a wiki where everyone can stash these...

Slowly I am replacing heavy weighted objects with a lighter version.
Stoneware dishes with Corelle.

Tervis mugs.

Clunky shoes with Crocs.

Leather handbags with nylon, which are mostly empty now. I try to purchase pants with good pockets for those days a purse is just too much.

Felt pads on all furniture legs.

My dream kitchen would have no upper cupboards!

Larissa

I have a handy seat. It is a three legged stool that looks like a cane. I take it with me whenever I think i might get stuck without a seat or have to stand in line for awhile. Also, it is great when shopping. It has "saved my life" many times already.

I have a placard tha I use when i need to.

I have folding chairs by the folding table, so I can fold laundry and sit.

I also sit while I do my hair and makeup.

Larissa,

I had forgotten the lightness of crocks! They are my favorite shoe now.

I use a tall walking staff, better for me than a walking cane.
--Kerry

Many of the aids sold for arthritis are helpful for lack of strength as are products and suggestions geared to cardiac patients. I use products in the Preston sammons adult rehab catalog. As an therapist I ask for the clinic catalog which has more in it than the patient catalogs do. I think the goose neck mounts that can hold things like hairdryers are nice. I use taller perching height stools when doing counter projects and chair height stools to use when I prop my elbow on the counter so I don't have to hold my arms up to put on my makeup. Wingback chair to support my neck in the crook of the wing in the evening is a must have.literature on work simplification, energy conservation is a good starting point. Its amazing how much you can cheat when you have to.

A bedrail for help rolling over and getting out of bed. (I don't have "mesti-power" during the night.

A handicap placard has been a huge energy saver.

My walker is great for hard days so I can sit instead of stand in line.
I also use it to store my purse and save my arm/shoulders from it.

The autocarts at the store are really helpful too.

Lightweight everything. I don't do heavy computers, purses, bags, etc...

I have all auto seats, doors, backhatch, etc.. on my van. (Quest)

Recliner with automatic button for reclining/sitting up

Dishwasher and laundry TABS (so no more struggling with
heavy bottles)

Pump dispenser for shampoo and shampoo

Shower chair

Handheld shower sprayer

Pill case for extra mestinon in purse (no running out of those!)

HTH,
Carly

A Rollator (a walker with wheels). It has a seat, like Barbel's 3-legged cane/stool.
The Rollator seat can be handy, for taking a break. But a Rollator is more work than a cane (at least for me), it can use up more precious energy, no question. But I also use the Rollator like a transport cart, when bringing supplies to aging relatives.
I've graduated from Corelle dishes, to paper plates (wimp).
Big-Box stores? I use their electric scooters. If they don't have any electric scooters? They don't get my business.
Groceries. My brother pointed out to me: stop using the grocery-chains, for mid-week replenishment. Many convenience stores now carry a moderate line of groceries. Use your handicap-placard to park near the door. A quick trip inside, a quick trip back to the vehicle.

My walker has wheels and a seat with storage. The family is with me to get it out of my van for me. They sell Jr. size ones that are much lighter
and narrower for easier use. I just want my generous seat size. :)

If the big stores are out of carts or they are not charged, I leave.
If I have family with me, they go in and check before I waste a walk in to the store.

HTH

I wanted to add a couple of things that I remembered on the way home from work today..

Instead of pushing the gas peddle all the time I use the cruise control whenever I'm going faster than 35 mph. Even in town. Every second not spent pushing that peddle gives me the strength for something else.

When it comes to breaking, once I come to a stop (like at a traffic light) I put the car in park. It may annoy others around you but as long as you don't close your eyes and take a nap, it's a much safer bet. The other option is letting your foot slip off the break and watching yourself rear end the person in front of you.

Bluetooth has been awesome also. I couldn't live without it. It's best if it is built into the car itself but you can purchase it by itself. If I am talking on the phone and not in the car I use speaker phone. At least that way I can put it on the table or desk and I don't have to hold the phone up to my ear.

Okay, those were my add ons. I am interested in the "goose neck mounts that can hold things like hairdryers" that mgot mentioned. That is one of the things that I struggle with the most.

Hope everyone here is full of strength and positive attitudes.
Hugs to all.
Angie

I do have a handicap tag on my car which I only use when my symptoms are bad. I try to exercise when possible, so walking across a parking lot does help. Recently, I found a new bicycle. It is called a peddle assist system. It will not run on its own, but the electric motor does magnify whatever peddling you do, and increases it up to 3x's as much. It took away the fear of being out cycling and having to fight wind, hills, or MG symptoms and not being able to get back home. I feel like I got a bit of my life and freedom back.