Living with Arthritis

Senior care  |  April 19, 2022

One in every five adults suffers from arthritis, and the majority of these are seniors. For older adults to comprehend the steps of living with arthritis, it’s helpful to talk about how the condition is identified, diagnosed, and managed.

Signs and symptoms:

Normally, symptoms of arthritis can include any of the following: joint redness, swelling, pain, stiffness, warmth, or difficulty with movement. Arthritis of the hands and feet is common, but they don’t always realize that it can impact any joint in the body. Anyone undergoing these symptoms should visit their physician.

Diagnosis:

Medical experts will conduct a physical exam and gather medical history and genetic information to identify the type of arthritis. Blood tests and imaging may be essential as well. The type and severity of arthritis will decide the ongoing treatment plan. While arthritis cannot be remedied, it can be controlled to limit the effect it has on seniors.

Strategies for arthritis management:

The treating doctor can suggest arthritis management techniques and should approve all plans to change or increase physical activity that may influence the condition.

• Lifestyle changes:  Seniors with arthritis may need to stop doing certain activities, or limit them. Depending on the part of the body affected, some hobbies may become more complex. However, planning can be helpful – for example, having a chair to sit on in the kitchen can help seniors that want to cook but have difficulty standing for long periods due to arthritis pain. Some seniors with arthritis get into the routine of using non-affected areas of the body more often. As an example, someone suffering from arthritis pain in their wrist may usually open doors by using their shoulder or elbow to push.
• Movement:  For some types of arthritis, sitting or working in one position for too long can worsen the condition. Moving, walking, and stretching every 15 minutes can be useful. Setting an alarm to stimulate movement can be helpful.
• Weight: Maintaining a healthy weight can help manage arthritis. Excess weight can generate strain on joints. Anyone concerned about this should consult their physician for exercise and diet guidance. Physical activity, if possible, can also help lessen arthritis signs in many cases.
• Education and awareness are critical: Seniors that may have arthritis, or have already been diagnosed, should engage their care team to develop control techniques.

Comfort Keepers® Can Help 

A special care plan for arthritis can reduce the effect of the disease on a senior’s life, and Comfort Keepers can help in providing support for an arthritis management program. Our caregivers remind clients to take proper medication, provide transportation assistance to scheduled appointments, and support in completing physician-prescribed exercises and diets. As part of our individualized care plan, caregivers can also help with activities like cooking, cleaning, and physical care. Our goal is to see clients finding joy and happiness each day, regardless of age.
To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your Comfort Keepers Cambridge today.

References
Arthritis Foundation. “Understanding Arthritis.” Web.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “5 Proven Ways to Manage Arthritis.” Web. 2019.

Quest Diagnostics. “Helping you focus on patients with arthritis” Web.

Everyday Health. “May is Arthritis Awareness Month – Mark it with the ABCs.” Web. 2018.

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