Arthritis is the number one cause of chronic pain. And, while it can develop at any age, it’s a common issue amongst older individuals. The pain that comes with this common condition is debilitating and challenging, especially for seniors living at home with arthritis. So, it’s beneficial to know of all the methods which can help ease this pain. This way, aging individuals can keep living at home and get the relief they need to live lives of wellbeing.
Tips for Living at Home with Arthritis
As individuals age, they’re likely to run into medical ailments which may deter them from performing required daily tasks. But, that doesn’t mean they can’t continue to live at home. Fortunately, there are a few things anyone who’s diagnosed with arthritis can do to live a life less affected by the symptoms of arthritis. Those things include:
Being Prescribed Medication: There are a number of prescription medications which may help to reduce or even prevent symptoms of arthritis. But, you won’t be prescribed until you talk to your doctor and get a diagnosis. Once it’s determined that you do suffer from arthritis, your doctor will offer a number of options you can choose from.
Be Active: It has been proven that the more people with arthritis move, the less stiff joints will be. So, try your best to stay active by stretching daily and also exercising. While it may be painful to move, the more you do it, the less pain there will be!
Take it Easy: Too much stress on the joints can make arthritis pain worse. So, try to avoid situations which put too much stress on your joints like opening jars, sitting back on your knees, or sitting/standing for too long. If you feel that pain is getting worse when performing specific tasks or positioning certain ways, have someone help with the tasks you need to be done.
Use Your Muscles: Those diagnosed with arthritis may find that only specific areas of their bodies are affected by pain. So, when it comes to daily needs like opening doors, pulling out chairs, carrying groceries, or otherwise, try using the muscles and joints which are your strongest and give you fewer issues.
Home Adjustments: There are a number of adjustments you can make if you’re living at home with arthritis. To prevent slips and falls due to arthritis in the shower, invest in an armbar, shower chair and/or mat which offers high traction. Additionally, instead of attempting to clean high areas with ladders, consider elongated casters for dusting. Finally, if you’re affected by arthritis of the hands and have trouble opening jars and lids, you can find mounted jar openers which allow for hand and pain-free opening.
Modify Lifestyle: Living with arthritis will inevitably require some lifestyle changes. So, plan for these by reducing activities which induce arthritis pain. Additionally, keep things around the house organized so you won’t have to go searching. Lastly, keep important items you’ll need in more than one room of the house. That way, you can easily access the things you need when you need them.
Get Help with an Experienced and Certified Home Caregiver
There is no shame in asking for help when you deal with chronic pain on a daily basis. So, if you find it challenging to complete all of the household tasks which need finishing throughout the day or you need help with personal needs, an in-home caregiver may be able to provide the support you need. To receive a referral for a licensed, experienced home caregiver in our network of nurse caregivers, contact Florida First Senior Home Carecare today on our website!