Osteoarthritis and your Parent

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis in seniors and a leading cause of disability. It occurs when the cartilage found at the end of bones and between joints starts to break down. Eventually, this cartilage that acts as a shock absorber wears down until bones are rubbing against bones. It is painful, physically limiting, and causes stiffness and swelling. The most common joints affected are the hands, spine, knees, hips and feet.

As a caregiver, you can do much to help your loved one live a well-balanced and productive life, despite the affects of osteoarthritis.

Support
Connecting with others who are going through similar experiences helps people realize that they are not alone. In fact, 30 million American adults are affected by osteoarthritis. Joining a support group provides both information on ways others have found to cope with the disease as well as camaraderie and, often, lifelong friends.

Home Care in East Hampton NY: Osteoarthritis and your Parent

Exercise
Exercise can often feel like a tremendous chore for those suffering from the pain of arthritis, but it is a crucial component of managing the disease. Maintaining strong muscles helps to support the damaged joints. Maintaining flexibility and an increased range-of-motion helps reduce stiffness and maintain one’s balance, limiting the potential for falls. Aerobic activity supports weight loss. Schedule exercise at least 5 days a week for your parent, working up to a minimum of 30 minutes a day. Include aerobic activity as well as stretching and strengthening activities. Tai chi is an excellent exercise for those suffering from this disease and is offered at many senior community centers.

Diet
Eating right and controlling their weight will help your parent reduce the pressure of increased stress on weight-bearing joints. Be sure to include a wealth of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables. Cold water fish such as salmon and mackerel are high in omega-3s, fatty acids which have been shown to reduce the inflammatory processes occurring in the body.

Reduce Stress
Encourage activities that reduce stress and create a sense of peace. This can include a warm bath filled with Epsom salts sprinkled with the essential oil of lavender before bedtime. Set them up so they can listen to recordings designed to relax the body and mind, many of which can be found on YouTube under guided relaxations. Chronic stress reduces the stress hormone cortisol’s ability to regulate inflammation.

Home Care Provider
Osteoarthritis can lead to lost mobility and the ability to complete the tasks of everyday living. If you find your parent struggling in their daily hygiene habits, preparation of their meals, or maintaining their home environment, consider obtaining the services of a home care provider. These professionals can not only assist with these daily activities, they can also accompany your parent on daily walks and provide transportation to classes, appointments and errands, as well as supply that all-important companionship so vital to the elderly.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional home care in East Hampton, NY, call the caring staff at Artful Home Care today at 631-685-5001.