Arthritis is a degenerative condition that causes inflammation, stiffness, and pain in the joints. The pain arthritis causes tends to get worse over time, but you can increase your senior loved one’s comfort by trying a few natural remedies.
1. Maintaining an Ideal Weight
The most severe arthritis pain tends to affect weight-bearing joints in the knees and ankles, and carrying too much weight puts added strain on these joints. Practising weight management strategies like exercising and eating a healthy diet should be your loved one’s first defence against arthritis pain.
2. Swimming
When arthritis develops, it’s important to change your loved one’s exercise routine by eliminating high-impact activities like running. Instead, your parent can try swimming or aquatic aerobics because the buoyancy of water takes the pressure off the joints. Getting some low-impact physical activity every day can stimulate the lubrication the joints need to move smoothly.
Living with arthritis pain can make it difficult to manage the tasks of everyday life. If your aging loved one needs occasional help with bathing, grooming, cooking, or other basic household tasks, or if you need time to attend to important personal matters, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of live-in and respite care. Edmonton seniors can maintain their independence while living at home with the help of our reliable respite caregivers.
3. Using Temperature Therapy
Every senior’s body is different, and your loved one may need to experiment with heat and cold to find the ideal temperature to bring relief. Soaking in warm water may help because it loosens up the tendons around the joints, or your loved one may discover a cold pack works better because it relieves inflammation.
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional elder care. Edmonton families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place.
4. Getting Acupuncture
Alternative medicine has become more mainstream, and many seniors believe acupuncture is an effective natural treatment with few side effects. The purpose of acupuncture is to redirect energy in the body and restore balance. When visiting an acupuncturist, your loved one needs to explain which joints are affected to ensure the treatment is performed correctly.
5. Eating for Relief
There are many herbs, spices, and nutrients that can ease arthritis pain and stiffness. For example, turmeric and cinnamon have both been shown to relieve inflammation, and omega-3 fatty acids keep the muscles and tendons limber.
A professional caregiver can help your loved one prepare meals that contain the essential nutrients your parent needs to enjoy a high quality of life. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional home care. Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life. To schedule a free in-home consultation, give us a call at (780) 490-7337 today.