Arthritis is a common disease that causes inflammation in the joints and affects millions of older people around the world. It can cause long-term pain, mobility issues, and a lower quality of life. But with the proper techniques and support from loved ones and home care, seniors can lessen the effects of arthritis and continue to live busy, full lives. Continue reading to learn five good ways for seniors to deal with arthritis and improve their overall health.
Maintain a Consistent Exercise Routine
Exercise and physical activity should be done regularly for seniors with arthritis. Walking, swimming, and cycling are low-impact sports that can help strengthen the muscles surrounding the afflicted joints and improve joint flexibility and stiffness. Exercise also helps regulate weight, which relieves stress on joints. Seniors should speak with their doctor or a physical therapist to create a customized exercise schedule considering their unique requirements and limits. With a home care aid, seniors will also get the encouragement they need to maintain their routine or the transportation they may need to attend group exercise classes.
Focus on Healthy Meal Planning
Maintaining a healthy diet is crucial for controlling arthritic symptoms. Seniors should concentrate on eating a well-balanced diet full of fresh produce, whole grains, lean meats, and healthy fats. Fish, nuts, and seeds contain omega-3 fatty acids, which have been demonstrated to lessen inflammation. A healthy weight is also important because being overweight strains joints. Home care professionals can create a healthy meal plan for seniors who struggle with meal planning. They can even shop for the food, prep, and cook when needed.
Consider Pain Management Options
Seniors’ well-being depends on their ability to control pain from arthritis. There are many ways to manage pain, including using over-the-counter or prescription drugs, topical creams, and hot or cold therapy. While cold therapy can lessen swelling and numb the area, heat applications can help loosen stiff joints and relieve discomfort. Additionally, meditation, deep breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques may help with pain management and enhance mental health in general.
Utilize Technology and Modifications
Using assistive technology and making home modifications can significantly improve the quality of life for seniors with arthritis. For instance, using reachers or jar openers in the kitchen, putting grab bars in restrooms, and using adaptive tools for activities like buttoning clothes can all lessen joint strain. Home care aids and loved ones can talk with seniors about their needs to assess what changes should be made.
Talk With Medical Professionals
Regular medical attention is necessary for controlling arthritis in seniors, as is self-care. Seniors should see their doctor frequently to evaluate their condition, discuss any worries or new symptoms, and change prescriptions as needed. They also need to ensure they get enough sleep, control their stress levels, and use joint protection procedures daily. The joint function can be preserved and discomfort reduced by protecting joints from overuse and avoiding repetitive motions.
Seniors with arthritis may struggle to go about their daily lives, but it doesn’t have to. With help and support from loved ones and advice from home care, seniors with arthritis can effectively manage their condition and enhance their quality of life by consistently using these five proven measures.
Source:
https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/management
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/osteoarthritis
If you or an aging loved one are considering home care in Weston, MA, please contact the caring staff at PlatinumCare + today. Call (617) 237-0867.
PlatinumCare + was born out of the desire and passion to provide the very best home health care possible in Brookline, Dover, Newton, Needham, Watertown, Weston, Cambridge, Lincoln, Sudbury, Belmont, Boston MA, and surrounding areas.
All with decades of experience, Tim in IT Operations, Support, and Management, Brenda in Client Relations, Healthcare Services & Sales Management, and Anne in Healthcare as a Nurse Practitioner combined their skills to form what is now PlatinumCare +.
As immigrants to the US, all came from backgrounds where Healthcare for aging parents was a responsibility of the immediate family and the entire community. Aging, sick, or terminal community members were cared for physically, emotionally, and financially by family, friends, including strangers! This community approach, Healthcare with a difference, delivered with the utmost love, care, sacrifice, and passion, forms the basis of how PlatinumCare + grounds itself.
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