Everyone sometimes suffers from cold hands, but for some people this is a much bigger problem. Think of hours of cold, painful, stiff or tingling hands, while you're inside! This problem can seriously affect daily life. Too few people are familiar with the many available solutions for this. This is shown by research by Especially and the Hague University.

You probably know the pain or annoying tingling in the hands when they have become too cold. One suffers from this in winter weather and the other after a walk or when driving the scooter or (electric) wheelchair. Some people also suffer from this at 15°C, indoors on the couch or behind the computer. Or when preparing food and cooking a meal. But people can also experience problems when dressing and undressing and self-care. The hands sometimes remain painful or sensitive for hours. This problem can have major consequences for someone's life and so it is important that a solution is found.

Research among the target group

In 2022, a focus group was held among people who recognize themselves in having cold, painful and/or stiff hands. Here we discussed the problems that the target group encounters on a daily basis, but also about what actually works for these people. To confirm and further expand these findings, a survey was conducted among a larger group. In addition to Voorall, various organizations are involved in this, such as the Rheumatism Patients Association, De Dwarslesie Organisatie Nederland and We stand up.

Research results

A number of things have become clear from the survey conducted. For example, what kind of disease the target group has, what activities they experience problems with (both indoors and outdoors) and under what weather conditions, but also what their opinion is about possible solutions. It has been found that people are not very familiar with the available products that might be a solution for them.

Familiarize yourself with existing solutions

We believe that better knowledge of what products are available can already make a difference. Based on the results of the investigation, therefore, a decision aid made on the Voorall website, which familiarizes the target group with various existing products, such as various types of heated gloves and heating pads. In addition to informing the target group, we want to encourage people to try out the products and share their experience. Sharing experiences with like-minded people is important to gain more insight into solutions for cold, painful and/or stiff hands.