Understanding Arthritis in Seniors

Arthritis is common as seniors age, with nearly 91 million adults dealing with its effects. There are over 100 types of arthritis, but Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis are the two most common types. It can be painful and frustrating depending on the type of arthritis and how it affects mobility and way of life. There are over 100 types of arthritis, but Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis are the two most common types. Home care professionals are prepared to assist with monitoring the effects of arthritis to ensure seniors receive the care they need.

Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis

Both types can be debilitating, especially if they are ignored. While Osteoarthritis is associated with wear and tear on the joints over a lifetime, Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes the body’s immune system to increase inflammation by attacking joints.

Issues with joints can decrease activity by affecting seniors’ ability to walk or use their hands. With medical assistance, seniors may reduce inflammation and pain using pain medication. Other suggestions include stress reduction, maintaining a healthy weight, and exercise. While exercising might seem like it would exacerbate the situation, many professionals believe that keeping the joints lubricated through movement is an excellent way to counteract the effects of arthritis.

It is essential to learn everything about the type of arthritis, its prognosis, and how to decrease the effects to provide proper support and care. Home care professionals can assist with this by monitoring daily activity, pain, and healthy meal planning if weight is an issue.

Daily Tips for Living With Arthritis

When living with arthritis, there are a few things seniors can do to make things easier. The first of these is to warm up the body each day. Gentle stretching that uses the full range of motion is critical for maintaining optimum mobility. Additional tips are listed below.

• Avoid repetitive movements in exercises
• Discuss a medication regimen with medical professionals
• Find ways to alleviate the pain without solely relying on medication – meditation or acupuncture might be options
• Use heat and cold to assist with pain
• Consider massage therapy to work through pain and help with joint mobility
• Avoid smoking
• Focus on a positive mindset

Losing range of motion or fighting through the pain affects personality and overall well-being. Adding a diagnosis of arthritis may lead to issues with depression, anger, and isolation.

Dietary Guidelines for Decreasing Effects of Inflammation

In addition to the tips above, seniors should be mindful of their diets when dealing with arthritis. Seniors may need to avoid particular food and drinks for decreased issues. For instance, limiting sugar intake, especially added sugars, may assist with a decrease in inflammation. Added sugars can be found in soda, candy, sauces, and more.

Processed and red meats may also cause issues due to increased chemical compounds that may lead to increased inflammation and other health conditions related to chronic disease. In addition, foods high in salt and gluten have also been linked as possible irritants for those suffering from arthritis.

If a loved one has been diagnosed with arthritis, increase their support with home care assistance. Elder care professionals can work with seniors to improve their diet through healthy meal planning and increase their activity. With proper steps, the impact of arthritis may be decreased, allowing for better health and positivity.

Source:
https://dailycaring.com/7-tips-arthritis-pain-relief/
https://ncoa.org/article/get-cooking-top-tips-for-older-adults-managing-arthritis-hand-pain
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3893727/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods-to-avoid-arthritis