Advice for Alexandria, VA, Seniors Dealing with Arthritis

Arthritis, which may cause pain and stiffness, can worsen with age, making it harder for older people to move about. Arthritis may make even the most mundane tasks, like cleaning or bathing, difficult.

The two most prevalent forms of arthritis, out of more than a hundred distinct varieties, are:

Osteoarthritis

Most people with arthritis are in their later years, and osteoarthritis is the most common type. Cartilage, the tough covering of bones, may wear down over time, causing joint aches and pains.

Rheumatoid arthritis

This disorder is caused by the immune system's damage to the joint's lining tissues, including cartilage and ligaments. Signs include joint stiffness, swelling, and discomfort. The elderly often experience morning stiffness and pain as a result of arthritis. It may be difficult for elderly people to get out of bed due to inflammation and insufficient joint lubrication.

When dealing with arthritic pain, it helps to have people who understand, are patient, and are supportive. You could have a terrible day if you're stiff for at least an hour after waking up. With careful preparation and the tips below, you may help your older loved one live with arthritis to a lesser extent.

Alexandria, VA Seniors: 4 Ways to Ease Arthritis Pain

Cold or Hot Therapy?

Heating a joint is a simple and effective way to alleviate arthritic pain. If you're experiencing pain or stiffness in your muscles or joints, applying heat may help. Heat causes blood vessels to dilate, improving blood flow and nutrient delivery to the treated area. An electric heating pad, a warm compress, or a hot shower (between 92 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit) may help alleviate arthritic pain.

Be careful while you're getting heat therapy. Older adults with poor circulation are likelier to get hurt because they can't feel their body temperature. However, most people feel safe and comfortable when the weather is warm.

Cold therapy might ease arthritis discomfort. By lowering blood flow, cold may reduce inflammation. When using a cold pack, avoid getting it on your skin. Soaking tight hands in a cold bath for three to four minutes or using over-the-counter ointments will help some older folks.

Get Moving: Improve Your Results with Exercise

Scientific studies have shown that maintaining an active lifestyle is one of the best ways to manage arthritis symptoms. Relieving from aches, pains, anxiety, and stress may be as simple as opening and shutting one's hands.

The Arthritis Foundation has recommended the following fitness programs for those who have arthritis:

This is the Arthritis Foundation's Aquatic Program
The Arthritis Foundation's Exercise Program
Quick and Easy Way to Exercise Daily: Enhance Fitness for an Active Lifestyle
Tai Chi for Arthritis Arthritis and Yoga
Cut Back on Exquisite Foods

Monitoring your senior loved one's diet may help them reduce inflammation and ease joint pain. The Mediterranean diet, well-known for reducing inflammation and fighting illness, consists primarily of fruits, vegetables, seafood, nuts, and legumes.

Keeping inflammation at bay may be as simple as avoiding these foods:

Alcohol
Sweeteners in coffee sometimes consist of sugar alternatives like aspartame.
Ingesting casein, MSG, and allergens
Extra sweetener
You may get omega-6 fatty acids in nuts, cereals, and shellfish.
Simple carbohydrates like pasta, crackers, bread, and the like
Foods high in saturated fats include meat, dairy, eggs, butter, and baked goods.
Meals like cookies, french fries, margarine, and similar processed meals contain trans fats.

Medicines that alleviate inflammation: Avoid Over-Medicating

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve), may reduce swelling and discomfort associated with arthritis. While nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs) may provide some comfort, it is crucial to consult your senior's healthcare provider to determine the optimal dose and quantity.

Problems with the digestive system, allergic responses, kidney damage, and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease are some of the adverse effects of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines. You should be aware that some drugs, whether prescribed or purchased over-the-counter, might mix dangerously with other medications that your senior loved one is already taking. This includes prescriptions for depression, high blood pressure, and blood thinning, among others.

Before starting any new therapy, it is essential to check with your senior's doctor to avoid drug interactions and adverse effects. This includes vitamins, NSAIDs, and other medications.

Managing Time-Based on Patterns of Pain

As your loved one's arthritis pain takes on new forms, watch for patterns. We are all unique in our way. Your older loved one can have more trouble in the mornings, at night, or both. You may use these patterns to schedule your loved one's social visits, exercise, appointments, and baths so they are as mobile as possible all day.

To make sure your aging loved one is comfortable at home, your Visiting Angels caregiver will arrange for activities and anything else they need.

Home Care for Arthritis Pain Relief for Elders

An all-encompassing approach to treating arthritis pain in seniors involves making lifestyle modifications, finding the proper medication, and providing supportive home care. Even though arthritis is a constant companion for seniors, there are ways to alleviate pain and improve their quality of life.

In contrast, the professional home care offered by Visiting Angels is both empathetic and tailored to the specific needs of your aging loved one. With practical and emotional support, our caregivers will provide your loved one with the loving care they deserve. You may rest easy knowing your loved one receives caring and skilled treatment.

Arrange a No-Cost In-Home Consultation Now

If seniors need assistance managing arthritis pain, they should contact Visiting Angels Alexandria for their compassionate, encouraging, and comprehensive care. For additional information, contact us right now.

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