Arthritis is a common condition among seniors. Older adults need to find sustainable treatment methods because the conditions leading to arthritis aren’t curable. There are several ways to mitigate the pain associated with joint inflammation. Seniors and their caregivers should experiment with different options to relieve pain until they find one that works. Here are a few ways you can help your aging loved one manage arthritis.
Provide Warm-Water Therapy
Warm-water therapy has been used for centuries to relieve muscle and joint pain. Soaking in a warm bath can ease muscle tension, relax the joints, reduce chronic pain, boost circulation, and decrease swelling. The soothing effects extend beyond the time spent in the tub. Most doctors recommend seniors take baths that are warm, rather than hot, for a duration of 20 minutes.
Adults living with arthritis often have difficulty performing the tasks of daily living. Some seniors only require help with a few daily tasks so they can maintain their independence. However, those living with serious illnesses may need more extensive assistance. Luckily, there is professional live-in care Barrie, ON, seniors can rely on. Home can be a safer and more comfortable place for your loved one to live with the help of an expertly trained and dedicated live-in caregiver.
Suggest Topical Medications
Not all arthritis medications are oral. Some topical creams supply sodium channel blockers, which effectively numb the nerve endings located right beneath the skin. Other topical options are NSAIDs, which work by decreasing the inflammatory proteins that cause joint swelling. The topical creams only work for a few hours, so they need to be reapplied consistently to remain effective. Topical creams are a great solution for seniors who don’t want to become reliant on oral anti-inflammatory medications.
Recommend Appropriate Footwear
To manage arthritis symptoms, seniors should try to reduce the amount of force exerted on the joints. Comfortable, supportive footwear is one of the best ways to reduce stress on joints. Seniors with arthritis should wear flexible, flat shoes with closed toes and plenty of arch support. The shoes should be a perfect fit, since footwear that pinches or slides can redirect pressure to the knees or hips.
You can help by making sure your loved one has enough pairs of doctor-approved shoes. If not, take your loved one to buy shoes that won’t exacerbate his or her arthritis. Specially designed orthopedic shoes are a good option for seniors who have chronic pain in the knees.
Caring for an older adult with arthritis can be challenging. If your elderly loved one is living with a serious medical condition and needs help managing the tasks of daily living, reach out to Home Care Assistance, an elderly home care agency you can trust. Our caregivers are available 24/7, there are no hidden fees in our contracts, and we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all of our in-home care services.
Promote Exercise
Exercise is one of the best ways to reduce painful joint inflammation. Seniors with arthritis may be resistant to physical activity, but they should try to find a sustainable workout regimen. Many seniors with joint pain opt for water exercise because it takes the pressure off the joints without reducing the quality of the exercise. Water aerobics and swimming are both recommended for seniors with arthritis.
Advise the Use of Injections
Some seniors choose to have regular injections to reduce joint inflammation. Steroid injections are popular, since they directly target the source of the inflammation and can relieve pain for months at a time. Hyaluronic acid injections are another option that enhances the health of damaged cartilage, which in turn reduces inflammation.
Encourage Following an Anti-Inflammatory Diet
An anti-inflammatory diet should be high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are present in salmon and other fish. Other dietary essentials include antioxidant-rich berries, leafy greens like spinach and kale, and healthy nuts like almonds.
If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of elder care. Barrie Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. From the mentally stimulating activities in our Cognitive Therapeutics Method to our friendly Care Managers who are available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, we offer a wide array of high-quality at-home care services. Contact one of our experienced Care Managers today at 647-970-3803 to learn more about our reliable in-home care services.