What you need to know about Arthritis and Senior CareArthritis is a medical condition many seniors struggle with. World Arthritis Day takes place on October 12th.
Did you know that arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the United States? Many seniors struggle with this type of disease.
Over 54 million adults in the Us have been diagnosed with a form of arthritis. Since the condition is common among seniors, it is important to understand the symptoms and the effects of arthritis when caring for them.
Basic Facts about Arthritis
A word used to describe joint pain and joint disease, arthritis comes in many forms. Some of the most common types of arthritis include: osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Seniors often develop osteoarthritis.
What is Osteoarthritis?
This form of arthritis occurs when the cartilage breaks down. Cartilage is the tissue that covers the ends of the bones and joints. Cartilage is found largely in joints like the knees, hips, and shoulders. When the cartilage breaks down, the bones can rub against each other, wearing away the bones, reducing mobility, and causing both stiffness and pain.
Who does Osteoarthritis Affect?
Typically, osteoarthritis occurs in older adults. It tends to occur as a part of aging since the cartilage is worn down over time and with extensive use.
How to Prevent Osteoarthritis
Although osteoarthritis is cause by wear and tear, it is preventable to a point. Adults should take care and stretch and to use joints safely by bending to life properly. This may reduce or delay osteoarthritis if a person in prone to the condition.
Supporting Seniors with Arthritis
Unfortunately, osteoarthritis cannot be completely cured or reversed. However, there are many ways to reduce the pain and difficulties that result from the condition.
- Medication like Tylenol or NSAIDs can relieve pain
- Physical therapy can reduce stiffness and improve mobility
- Occupational therapy can offer alternative motions to avoid aggravating affected joints
- Yoga, tai chi, and other gentle exercises can relieve pain and stress
- Medical injections can relieve pain
- Surgeries can protect bones replace severely damaged joints
Risk Factors and Arthritis
Seniors are at greater risk of osteoarthritis if they:
- Have struggled with obesity
- Overused various joints
- Maintained poor posture
- Are genetically predisposed
- Have previously injured their joints
Sign of Arthritis
- Stiffness in joints
- Stress related to pain
- Decrease flexibility in the joints
- Noise when the joints move
- Swelling around the joints
- Pain in the joints during cold weather or after activity
Home Care Tip
Seniors “feeling cold in their bones” isn’t a joke. Cold weather can exacerbate osteoarthritis pain. Support seniors with arthritis by helping them stay warm and offering extra help with physical tasks when it’s chilly.
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