For more than 50 million adults throughout the United States who are currently living with arthritis, the pain can be truly debilitating. In fact, arthritis is the leading cause of disability among adults in the country, and experts estimate that the number of people who are living with this disease will only increase over time.
By the year 2040, it is estimated that there will be more than 70 million adults in the United States who have been diagnosed with arthritis. As a family caregiver, it is extremely important to understand the pain your senior’s facing, and take as many steps as possible to help them manage this pain. Not only can the pain and loss of range of motion associated with arthritis diminish their physical functioning, mobility, and safety, but it can also lessen their emotional health and quality of life. Helping them to manage this pain effectively can ease their stress, boost their mental and emotional health, and encourage them to live the type of lifestyle that they desire and deserve.
Use these tips to help your aging loved one manage the pain of arthritis:
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- Acknowledge what they are feeling and let them know you are there to help them cope with their pain, and the emotional impact of that pain.
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- Help your senior find healthy and effective ways to lose weight to take pressure off their joints.
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- Support your parent in getting more exercise. The more physically active your parent is, the stronger and more flexible their joints will be. This will increase the range of motion and strength, as well as helping your parent lose weight and keep their body healthier overall.
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- Utilize heat therapy for pain relief. This can include taking hot baths, using an electric blanket, or using a hot compress on the affected joint. Heat also reduces stiffness and promotes flexibility and range of motion.
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- Utilize cold therapy to reduce stiffness, swelling, and inflammation, as well as easing the pain. For cold therapy, use a gel pack or bag of frozen vegetables wrapped around the joint for up to 15 minutes. Be sure to protect the skin with a barrier such as a towel or piece of fabric.
Living with pain can be extremely difficult emotionally as well as physically. The support of a home care provider can make a tremendous difference for your senor. This in-home senior care services provider can offer your parent a variety of services that can help them cope with this pain, manage it effectively, and continue to find meaning and quality in their later years. This can include transportation, encouragement, and support to stay physically active, companionship and emotional support, and medication reminders to help them stay compliant with instructions from their doctor.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring Home Care Services in San Jose, CA, contact the friendly staff at Home Care Professionals today.
Call (866)-940-4855
Source
Arthritis.org
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