Blog > What to Do After a Diagnosis of Arthritis in Your Senior

What to Do After a Diagnosis of Arthritis in Your Senior

Arthritis is a disease that can affect people of all ages, but it is most common in seniors. In addition to the physical pain, arthritis can also cause emotional pain, particularly when it makes it difficult for someone to get around.

Arthritis is the inflammation of joints, which is the result of the breakdown of the cartilage in the joints. This is usually caused by age or repeated strains on the joints. When this happens, the bones of the joints rub against each other, causing pain and stiffness.

Senior citizens with arthritis may be more likely to fall. In the US, about 3 million people a year go to emergency rooms because of a fall, and a quarter of people over the age of 65 fall every year. In the US, a fall-related injury is the most common cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries in people over the age of 65.

That’s why it is so important for seniors with arthritis to get the companion care at home that they need.

What Causes Arthritis?

Companion Care at Home in Upper West Side NY

Arthritis can be caused by a variety of different factors. The most common cause of arthritis is aging. As people age, their joints become stiffer, and they are more likely to suffer from arthritis. People who are overweight are also more likely to suffer from arthritis.

Other causes of arthritis can include an injury to the joint, immobility, and poor diet. People who lead sedentary lifestyles are more likely to suffer from arthritis.

How Does Arthritis Affect Seniors?

Seniors are much more likely to suffer from arthritis, and it can make their lives very difficult. Arthritis can cause immobility, stiffness, and pain. It can also make it difficult to do simple daily tasks.

Arthritis can also cause social isolation in seniors. They may be afraid to go out in public, and they may become less social. This can lead to depression, and it can heighten stress levels.

What Lifestyle Changes Can Help Seniors Deal With Arthritis?

There are several lifestyle changes that can help seniors deal with arthritis. These include:

Exercising Regularly

Experts recommend that seniors with arthritis exercise at least three times a week. Even mild exercise is beneficial. Your senior can start out with walking and work your way up to more strenuous exercises.

Massages

Massages can help with pain and stress. Massages can also help improve blood flow and flexibility.

Healthy Diet

Your senior should eat a variety of fruits and vegetables and avoid fried food.

Rest

Seniors who are dealing with arthritis should get plenty of rest. Sleeping can help reduce pain.

Manage Stress

Seniors dealing with arthritis should try to stay calm. Stress can increase inflammation.

Healthy Weight

Seniors who are overweight or obese should try to lose weight. This can help reduce the symptoms of arthritis.

Conclusion

Seniors can have a better quality of life with the right lifestyle changes. They can also have a better quality of life with the help of professional companion care at home. Give us a call today and review your options!

Sources

https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/emotional-well-being/emotional-self-care/the-emotion-pain-connection

https://eurapa.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1007/s11556-011-0086-9#:~:text=Recent%20studies%20identified%20approximately%2050,community%20%5B34%E2%80%9336%5D.

https://www.ncoa.org/article/get-the-facts-on-falls-prevention#:~:text=The%20Challenges%20of%20Falls,hospital%20admissions%20among%20older%20adults

If you are considering companion care at home in Upper West Side, NY, for an aging loved one, please contact the caring staff at Touching Hearts At Home of NYC today at 212-201-6139.