Many seniors struggle with arthritis, which limits their mobility and causes pain and stiffness. However, there are certain lifestyle choices that also impact arthritis. The good news is that seniors can maintain their independence and enhance their quality of life by making well-informed decisions. Home care providers and loved ones support these choices by ensuring they have everything they require.
Nutrition and Diet
An anti-inflammatory-rich, well-balanced diet can help control the symptoms of arthritis. This means including lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats to enhance joint health and lower inflammation. On the other hand, red meats, processed foods, and sugary snacks should be avoided as they can make inflammation worse.
Since this might be new to seniors, home care services offer valuable resources, helping them make beneficial changes in their diet.
Exercise
Exercise is important for seniors in general, but it becomes even more important when they’re trying to manage arthritis. Doing so improves support by reducing stiffness, strengthening the muscles surrounding the joints, and preserving joint function.
Low-impact activities like yoga, swimming, and walking are great choices for seniors. To prevent overdoing it, it is important to begin slowly and gradually raise the intensity.
In addition, home care providers can help encourage seniors to get moving as well as ensure they’re safe while working out. Some key points to consider include the following:
- Make low-impact exercise a regular habit
- Concentrate on exercises that increase strength and flexibility
- Avoid joint-stressing, high-impact activities
Maintain Weight
It’s critical for seniors with arthritis to maintain a healthy weight. Because it puts additional strain on weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips, excess weight exacerbates the symptoms of arthritis. Seniors can reduce some of the strain on their joints by establishing and maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and consistent exercise.
Additionally, if seniors implement changes but continue to struggle with weight, they can talk with their medical team about possible solutions.
Focus on Sufficient Sleep and Rest
Seniors need to get a good night’s sleep in general, but it’s even more important when they’re trying to manage arthritis. The right amount of sleep ensures the body gets a chance to renew and repair, lowering discomfort and inflammation.
Home care providers can help seniors create a sleep routine that encourages better sleep, such as focusing on getting seven to nine hours each night, creating a comfortable sleeping space, and reducing stimulating activities right before bed.
Seniors should also reduce screen time before bed, as this may make it harder to go to sleep.
Preventing Joint Strain
This might seem like common sense, but it’s important for seniors to take extra care to prevent needless strain on their joints. Home care professionals might suggest modifications such as using assisted devices, minimizing heavy lifting, or reducing twisting.
There are many lifestyle choices that seniors can make that may improve their arthritis. With the help of home care, they can implement some of the tips above to see which works best for them. At the same time, seniors should talk with their medical team about any concerns or increased issues they have with arthritis.
If you or an aging loved one needs Home Care in Elk Grove, CA, contact A Better Living Home Care today (916) 514-7006
Sources:
- https://arthritis.ca/about-arthritis/arthritis-types-(a-z)/types/osteoarthritis/osteoarthritis-self-management
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arthritis/in-depth/arthritis/art-20046440
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods-to-avoid-arthritis
- https://continentalhospitals.com/blog/arthritis-and-aging-how-to-maintain-joint-health-as-you-get-older
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