According to Harvard Medical School, everyone has about a 50 percent chance of developing osteoarthritis at some point in their life. This means that many older adults have a painful joint condition. Unfortunately, osteoarthritis, or OA, can result in your aging relative being unable to do some of the things they enjoy. If your older family member suffers from OA, there are things they can do at home to ease the pain and cope with the condition, such as these things below.
Be Physically Active
It may seem counterproductive to move painful joints more, but it really does help. Multiple studies indicate that people who have OA enjoy a better quality of life when they exercise regularly. Seniors who exercise have more energy, stronger muscles, and more flexibility in their joints. In addition, exercise helps with weight loss. Losing weight reduces stress on the joints, making them hurt less.
A home care provider can assist your loved one to be more active by going for walks with them and involving them in activities at home. In addition, a home care provider can watch over the seniors while they exercise at home, which can make them feel safer and encourage them to exercise more.
Get Enough Sleep
If the older adult isn’t sleeping well at night, they may feel more tired and their joints may be even more painful. One way to improve sleep is to make the bedroom a more peaceful place. Make sure the room is clean and clutter is minimized. The temperature of the room should be set to a cool enough temperature to promote sleep and all electronic devices should be removed from the room or at least turned off.
Home care providers can assist with keeping the older adult’s room tidy and the sheets fresh to promote better sleep.
Massage
When arthritic joints are gently rubbed, it helps to improve blood flow to the joint. This can help to reduce pain.
Your older family member’s home care provider can offer gentle massage of a painful limb or joint. However, if the joint is extremely sensitive, it may be wise to see a doctor for a referral to a licensed massage therapist who specializes in treating people suffering from arthritis pain.
Healthy Diet
There are many nutrients that studies indicate may help with arthritis pain, such as vitamin C and omega-3 fatty acids. However, experts recommend eating a well-rounded diet rather than focusing on just a few nutrients.
A home care provider can prepare healthy, balanced meals for your aging relative, ensuring they eat well to support their joints and overall health.
For more information about hiring Home Care Services in Pacific Beach, CA, call the friendly caregivers at La Jolla Nurses Homecare who can help your aging parents remain in their own homes, at 858-454-9339. We are a home care agency providing quality and affordable senior care in La Jolla, CA, and the surrounding communities.
Sources
Webmd.com
Health.harvard.edu
Verywellhealth.com
Osteoarthritis
Today we are the oldest and most experienced private duty agency in San Diego County.She saw a need for quality private duty home health care and she worked diligently to build an agency that filled that need.I am proud to say, her vision is carried on today with our dedicated staff.
I believe our tenure in the community speaks well for us.We have had the opportunity to be of service to countless interesting individuals, including local and worldwide celebrities.It is the people we care for that makes this a fascinating industry.Whether high profile or a more ordinary citizen, we are proud that thousands have entrusted us with their care or the care of their loved ones.Our Mission is to provide high quality, very secure and the most compassionate home health care.We believe that patients heal faster and are happiest when they can stay in their homes.”
- Four Providers Who Ease the Stress of Caring for a Chronically Ill Loved One - October 29, 2024
- Therapies Seniors May Need After a Stroke - October 22, 2024
- Keeping Psoriatic Arthritis from Triggering Other Issues - October 15, 2024
