Opening cans: what's making it hard?

Quick answer: Opening cans gets hard for different reasons — using one hand or weak grip — and the tool that helps is different for each. Pick the one closest to you.

A pull-tab can needs a fingertip wedged under a small ring, then a sharp upward pull and a steady peel. A manual can opener needs one hand squeezing the handles shut while the other turns a small key, and the can has to stay put on the counter the whole time. Both lean on pinch strength more than most kitchen jobs do, and both assume a second hand is free to steady the can.

Which is closest to yours?

I can only use one hand Opening cans with one hand Buy pull-tab cans where you can and brace each one on a damp cloth or in a drawer before you lift the ring.
My grip is weak or my fingers hurt Opening cans with a weak grip Don't hook the ring pull with a fingertip: lift it with the handle of a spoon, then peel the lid back using something slid through the ring.

None of these sounds like you? Start from a condition instead, or pick a different task.