May 14, 2024
Nearly 50 percent of Americans aged 65 and over suffer from arthritis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Osteoarthritis is the most prevalent form, though gout, fibromyalgia, and rheumatoid arthritis are other very common rheumatic conditions. For seniors, arthritis can result in unpleasant complications such as debilitating pain, reduced mobility, joint swelling and stiffness, thinning bones and skin rashes. Every case of arthritis requires its own unique treatment so consulting with a medical professional is always the recommended first step. However, in addition to medical intervention, there are also many lifestyle changes that can be made to lessen—and even reverse—arthritic pain. EATING THE RIGHT FOODS : According to the Arthritis Foundation, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts and beans is not only great for overall health, but can also help manage disease activity. If this advice sounds familiar, it’s because these are the principles of the Mediterranean diet, which is frequently touted for its anti-aging and disease-fighting powers. Studies confirm that eating foods commonly found in the Mediterranean diet can reduce arthritic inflammation, heal joints, lower blood pressure, protect against chronic conditions, and lead to weight loss (further lessening the overall pressure on your joints). LOW-IMPACT EXERCISES : Safe and enjoyable senior-friendly activities that promote flexibility and range of motion, while still being gentle on your joints, include swimming, yoga, tai chi, walking, cycling, elliptical machines, and stretching exercises. Be sure to gradually ease your way into any new fitness routine so that you can monitor any adverse reactions which sometimes take a day or two to surface. FINDING A ONE-LEVEL FLOOR PLAN : Climbing stairs inside a house or condominium is one of the single biggest aggravators for arthritic pain in the knees, feet and back. Retirement communities that offer spacious 1 and 2-bedroom floor plans, with easy access to multiple elevators, have become an attractive destination for seniors looking to simply life. Many independent living communities, such as Chestnut Square at The Glen, also include a full kitchen and washer/dryer in every floor plan which makes the change of environment incredibly seamless. TEMPERATURE-BASED THERAPY : Heat treatments can include taking a warm shower or bath to help offset stiffness, or using an electric or moist heating pad to reduce discomfort at night. Cold treatments, on the other hand, can help reduce joint pain, swelling and inflammation. Wrap an ice pack in a towel and apply it to painful joints for rapid relief. Always avoid applying ice directly to the skin. Topical ointments and creams that contain capsaicin, conveniently available over the counter, can also provide warmth that soothes arthritis and joint pain. To learn more about Partners in Healthcare or to request a complimentary client assessment, please call us today at (847) 904-5113 or visit www.partners-healthcare.com