What You Need To Know About Arthritis in Victoria, BC

Uncategorized  |  March 23, 2020

Inflammation of one or more joints, known as arthritis, affects one in five adults across the world, with the majority of those diagnosed aged 65 or over.

Seniors with arthritis may find it hard to engage in activities of daily living or continue with their hobbies, but there are fortunately ways to manage the condition and enjoy life despite the illness.

If your loved one has recently been diagnosed with a condition that affects the joints, it is important that they understand how living with the condition looks like.

Symptoms & Diagnosis

To begin with, the most common signs of arthritis are joint redness, swelling, stiffness, and pain, as well as difficulty with movement. Most people are aware of arthritis of the hands and feet, but it is worth knowing that the condition can affect any joint in the human organism.

When it comes to diagnosing arthritis, doctors first perform physical exams and look into medical history and other relevant information to identify the specific type of arthritis. In many cases, blood tests and imaging are required too.

Managing Arthritis

Once diagnosed, seniors should know that there is no cure for arthritis BUT it can be managed with lifestyle changes and other physician-recommended strategies.

For instance, a doctor can recommend changes to physical activity. Medical professionals can advise patients to stop or limit some activities and increase others.

Other strategies include:

Movement: In some cases, sitting or working in one position for prolonged periods of time can aggravate symptoms, so moving or at least stretching every 15 or 30 minutes can help. Keep in mind that your loved one must consult with their medical team before introducing any physical activity to their routine.

Weight: Managing arthritis is easier when a healthy weight is maintained. If your loved one is overweight, they should speak with their doctor about diet and exercise guidelines.

Education: Both seniors and their caregivers need to educate themselves in order to create viable arthritis management strategies.

Comfort Keepers Can Help

Having a good care plan for arthritis can alleviate the symptoms of the condition and allow those affected to lead normal, healthy lives. Comfort Keepers can help your loved one in a myriad of ways. Our caregivers can help with daily tasks, provide medication reminders, offer transportation to appointments, supervise exercise regimens, prepare healthy meals, and much more. We can help your parent or relative age with comfort and dignity in the comfort of their home while maintaining their routine and independence.

To learn more about us and our services, please call our Victoria office today!

Share This Post: