In the last few weeks, I have been reminded of how much our needs can change over the course of time. When thinking back to what I would have considered my ultimate “must have tool in the kitchen” I realize that age, experience and changes in my ability have shaped what I reach for in the kitchen.
Food is celebratory. People who don't cook don't know how much fun they're missing. - Leo Buscaglia
What changes do we face in the kitchen as we age?
As we get older, our hands and bodies change…our lifestyles change…and our food habits change. Our fingers tend to become a bit kinkier, our joints more prominent, our muscles more stiff. Many people must address issues with arthritis or carpel tunnel and need knives that are well suited to changes in their grip. Others need to think more about the weight and balance of a knife; does the blade feel light enough to comfortably wield? Does it somewhat natural to hold a potato or apple in your hand while peeling or cutting towards you (if this is a way you regularly use a knife)?
What are some questions we should be asking ourselves?
Is the way the knife is being held not only comfortable, but safe?
Is the way we must hold the knife causing any pain or tension in our wrists or any other part of our body?
Are the knives we are reaching for well suited for the go-to foods we NOW prepare on a regular basis?
If we are in a situation where we must sit more, is the style of knife being used well suited for cutting while in a seated position?
What’s the bottom line?
At AZCK, we do our best to make sure that the majority of knives we carry offer an ergonomic grip and that we have varying styles of handles for different sized hands and individual grips. If someone is struggling to find a style of knife that suits where they are at in life and what they need to accomplish in the kitchen, we will gladly help them re-evaluate what is needed and what the best way is to make sure their needs are being met.
BOTTOM LINE: Don’t let age (and the changes that come with it) prevent you from cooking the foods you love or spending time in the kitchen.
Feed your body, feed your soul - and have fun while you are doing it.
AZ Custom Knives is an online store selling a variety of quality kitchen knives made with high grade stainless Damascus steel. We can also help if you are looking for your knife or blade to be sharpened or restored in Grande Prairie, Fort McMurray, Fairview, Edmonton and Dawson Creek, BC.