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Osteoarthritis: Risk Factors and Care for Older Adults
It’s unfortunate but true that as
most people get older, their likelihood of getting arthritis—a condition that
causes pain and inflammation in the joints—increases. What’s more, according to
the Arthritis Foundation, “there is no sure way to prevent arthritis.” The best
anyone can do is to be aware of their risk factors and learn how to manage the
effects of this disease.
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is not a single disease,
but rather a term that covers over 100 different conditions. The most common
type, osteoarthritis, affects mainly the hands, lower back, neck, and
weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips and feet. In osteoarthritis (OA),
the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wears away. This loss of
cushioning between bones causes soreness, stiffness and pain.
Risk Factors for Osteoarthritis
In 2019, approximately 528 million people globally were living with osteoarthritis, marking a 113% increase since 1990, according to the World Health Organization. About 73% of those with OA are over 55 years old, and 60% are female. In the U.S., about 32.5 million adults have OA. The most commonly affected joints are the knee, hip and hand. Genetics plays a big role in who will get osteoarthritis. People who have family members with OA are more likely to develop it.
Other risk factors include:
·
Joint injury or overuse. Injury or
overuse, such as knee bending and repetitive stress on a joint, can damage a
joint and increase the risk of OA in that joint.
·
Age. The risk of developing OA increases
with age.
· Gender. Women are more likely to develop OA than men, especially after age 50.
· Obesity. Extra weight puts more stress on
joints, particularly weight-bearing joints like the hips and knees. This stress
increases the risk of OA in those joints. Obesity may also have metabolic
effects that increase the risk of OA.
“Your joints are meant to
withstand a certain amount of force. But every pound of excess weight adds two
to four pounds of pressure on your knees,” says Chad Deal, MD, of the Cleveland
Clinic. “By losing 20 pounds, you’re taking 40 to 80 pounds of force off of
them. Losing weight can help to at least slow down the progression of
osteoarthritis.”
Dr. Deal adds, “It may not be
possible to completely stop the underlying cause of osteoarthritis, but that
does not mean there’s nothing you can do.”
How Seniors Can Manage Osteoarthritis
With the right preventive measures
and care techniques, older adults can manage arthritis effectively, allowing a
more active and pain-free lifestyle. Discuss these possible ways to manage the
pain and discomfort with your doctor.
1. Stay Active
Regular physical activity is vital
in preventing and managing arthritis. Activities like walking, swimming or
gentle yoga can help maintain flexibility, strengthen muscles around the
joints, and reduce overall pain. Remember, it’s about movement, not about
setting athletic records!
2. Eat a Healthy Diet
A balanced diet rich in fruits,
vegetables, whole grains and lean protein can help manage arthritis. Foods rich
in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins can reduce inflammation and
support joint health. Remember, a healthy weight reduces the strain on your
joints.
3. Mind Your Joints
Use your larger or stronger joints
to carry loads. For example, use a backpack or a trolley instead of carrying
groceries with your hands. Ergonomic tools can also ease the strain on your
joints during daily activities.
4. Use Medications and Other
Treatments
Over-the-counter pain relievers
and anti-inflammatory medications can help, but always consult with your doctor
before starting any new medication. Heat treatments, like warm towels, hot
packs or a warm bath, can soothe stiff joints. Cold treatments, such as ice
packs, can reduce joint swelling and pain.
5. Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated helps keep the
cartilage in your joints healthy and lubricated. Aim for at least eight glasses
of water a day, more if you’re active or it’s hot.
6. Get Enough Sleep
A good night’s sleep can help
reduce arthritis pain and fatigue. Create a restful environment, stick to a
regular sleep schedule, and avoid caffeine and electronics before bed.
7. Manage Stress
Chronic stress can exacerbate
arthritis symptoms. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation or gentle
yoga can help keep stress levels in check.
8. Get Regular Checkups
Regular visits to your health care
provider are crucial. They can track the progression of your arthritis and
adjust your treatment plan as needed.
Don’t Let OA Limit Your Lifestyle
Living with arthritis in your
senior years doesn’t mean giving up on your hobbies or an active lifestyle. By
incorporating these prevention and care tips into your daily routine, you can
manage arthritis effectively and continue to enjoy a fulfilling and active
life.
Remember, the key is to stay
proactive about your health. With the right approach, you can minimize the
impact of arthritis and keep moving comfortably. Contact a Right at Home office
near you to learn how Right at Home can help you manage OA at home.
This article was submitted by
Right at Home. Contact the local Right
at Home office in Mobile at 251-459-8671 or in Daphne at 251-402-5121
The holiday season can be both a joyful and overwhelming time, especially for seniors. As loved ones come together to celebrate, the pressure to maintain a tidy and organized home can add stress to what should be a time of joy. At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we believe that a clutter-free environment can foster peace and emotional well-being during the holidays. In this blog, well explore how organization can be a thoughtful gift, not just for seniors, but for their families too. Understanding the Emotional Toll of ClutterFor many seniors, the accumulation of belongings can lead to feelings of despair and overwhelm. As we age, it becomes harder to manage clutter, both physically and emotionally. It can be a source of anxiety, especially when the holidays come around, inviting family gatherings and festive celebrations. Tip: Look Beyond the StuffUnderstanding the emotional connection people have with their belongings is essential. Each item may carry memories or sentimental value, making the decluttering process challenging. Approach the conversation with love and empathy, reminding them that a simplified space can lead to greater peace of mind. Decluttering with PurposeOne of the best gifts you can give a senior this holiday season is a tidied and organized home. Not only will this create a welcoming environment for family visits, but it can also lighten the emotional load that clutter brings. Heres a step-by-step guide to facilitate the decluttering process:Step 1: Set the MoodCreating a pleasant atmosphere can make the decluttering process more enjoyable. Play soft music and have refreshments on hand to create a comfortable and relaxed setting. Encourage the person youre helping to share stories about their belongings, making the process feel less like a chore.Step 2: Start SmallTackling an entire home at once can be overwhelming. Begin with small areas, like a closet or a single room, to make progress feel achievable. Set a timer for 20-30 minutes, allowing for focused work without fatigue. Celebrate small wins together to cultivate a sense of achievement.Step 3: Sorting with LoveAs items are removed from their designated spaces, sort them into four categories: Keep, Donate, Sell, and Toss. Encourage seniors to keep items that spark joy while helping them understand that saying goodbye to certain belongings doesnt mean losing their memories. Keep: items they love and use regularly.Donate: usable items that could benefit others.Sell: items of value that may also be a source of income.Toss: broken or unusable items that no one will benefit from.Step 4: Create Functional SpacesOnce decluttering is complete, the next step is organizing the remaining items in a way that makes them easily accessible and functional. Use clear bins, labels, and designated spots for everything to maintain order. For example, frequently used items should be within reach, while seasonal items can reside in less accessible areas. Embracing the Spirit of GivingThe holidays are fundamentally about connection and support. By helping a senior declutter, you not only enhance their living environment but also reinforce familial bonds. Its about creating space for memories, laughter, and love during gatherings.Tip: Coordinate with Family MembersEncourage family members to pitch in and share the workload. This shared experience can facilitate deeper connections, ease the emotional strain, and promote teamwork. The act of organizing together reinforces unity, transforms the task into a celebration, and allows everyone to reminisce about the memories tied to certain items.The gift of organization can transform not only a home but the holiday experience itself. A peaceful, organized space fosters emotional well-being and allows seniors and their families to focus on what truly matters: togetherness and joy. Remember, the journey of decluttering is not just about discarding items; its about making room for love, laughter, and cherished memories. At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we are here to support you in simplifying the holiday season for seniors and their families. Together, lets create a joyful and stress-free home for the holidays.
The holiday season is a time of warmth, joy, and meaningful connections, especially for seniors who cherish memories and moments spent with loved ones. Unfortunately, the very activities that should bring joylike decorating, gathering, and gift-givingcan become overwhelming when clutter and disorganization take center stage. At A Call to Order Professional Organizers, we believe that a clutter-free environment can enhance the holiday spirit and create a serene atmosphere for seniors. This article explores how we can make a difference by helping seniors enjoy a seamless and joyful Christmas experience.The Importance of Decluttering for SeniorsAs the festive season approaches, many of us look forward to holiday traditions with friends and family. However, for seniors, it can be challenging to navigate an environment crowded with memories, decorations, and daily items they may no longer need. Decluttering is essential, not just for creating space but for fostering a peaceful and joyful holiday atmosphere. When we help seniors declutter, we guide them through the emotional weight attached to their belongings. Each item tells a story, from cherished holiday decorations passed down through generations to gifts that were once adored but are now forgotten. Our empathetic approach focuses on helping them make intentional decisions about what to keep and what to let go. Tips for a Meaningful Decluttering ExperienceStart Small: Begin with one room or area at a time. Focus on the most cluttered areas that require immediate attention, such as living rooms or kitchens. This methodical approach prevents feelings of being overwhelmed during the decluttering journey.Create Keepsake Containers: Encourage seniors to set aside a few cherished items in special containers. This way, they can keep meaningful items without cluttering their spaces. Make sure to label each container for easy identification.Involve Family Members: Invite family members to participate in the decluttering process. This not only reduces the emotional burden but also fosters connection. Sharing stories behind treasured items can be a heartwarming experience.Keep the Holiday Spirit Alive: As you sort through decorations, encourage seniors to curate a selection of their favorite holiday pieces. Incorporate these items into their holiday traditions to evoke nostalgia and joy without overwhelming their space.By employing these strategies, we provide seniors with the clarity and comfort they need to enjoy a peaceful holiday season.Creating a Joyful Holiday EnvironmentOnce decluttering is underway, its time to focus on decorating and creating a joyful environment. The key is to keep things simple yet festive. At A Call to Order, we specialize in transforming spaces, making them inviting for family gatherings and celebrations.Decorating Tips for a Senior-Friendly HolidayChoose a Theme: Help seniors choose a simple theme that resonates with themwhether it's traditional, modern, or whimsical. A cohesive theme can make decorating less overwhelming and more enjoyable.Opt for Lightweight Decorations: Select decorations that are easy to handle and arrange. Avoid heavy ornaments and decor that can pose hazards. Energizing the space with strings of light or simple garlands can be an effective way to enhance the festive atmosphere without overwhelming them.Incorporate Personal Touches: Encourage seniors to include personal items in their decorations. Family photos, handmade ornaments, or crafts from grandchildren can create a warm and inviting space that sparks joy and connection.Maintain Accessibility: Ensure that decorations are arranged at a height that is easy to see and reach. Seniors should feel included in the decorating process, so setup should enable their participation.Plan Gatherings: As the holidays approach, consider scheduling low-key gatherings. A cozy hot cocoa night or a holiday movie marathon with close family can create cherished memories while allowing seniors to enjoy the holiday spirit in a relaxed environment.At A Call to Order, we aim to connect with our clients deeply and meaningfully, ensuring that the spirit of giving extends beyond the holiday season. Helping seniors prepare their homes for Christmas gives them the gift of joy, connection, and solace. Wrapping Up This Christmas, let's remember that the spirit of giving can be manifested through meaningful experiences rather than material possessions. As professional organizers, our mission at A Call to Order is to make the holidays brighter and more memorable for seniors by creating spaces that radiate joy, peace, and love. Connecting emotionally with our clients leads to not only a decluttered home but also a heartwarming holiday season filled with shared moments and cherished memories. This is what we celebrate while bringing joy to seniorsbecause every moment spent in a clutter-free space is a moment of peace during the festive whirlwind of the holidays.
In-home care helps seniors stay in their homes safely, offering support with daily tasks and reducing fall risks, enhancing their quality of life.In-home care helps seniors in an array of areas to age in place safely.If your senior mom or dad wants to live in their own home but their mobility issues are challenging, in-home care providers can help. Your mom or dad may be able to stay in their home as long as they want with support from in-home care services. In-home care providers help seniors with many of the day-to-day tasks necessary to keep a home clean and comfortable.In-home care can also help keep your mom or dad safe. A care provider will do things like make sure that clutter is picked up and floors are free of hazards so that your mom or dad has a lower risk of falling and getting hurt.Here are some of the many benefits of in-home care for seniors: Medication RemindersMost seniors who have mobility challenges take at least five different medications and keeping them all straight can be difficult. If your mom or dad has in-home care, their care provider will remind them when its time to take their medications. They can also help your mom or dad keep track of the medications they need and the dose of each they are supposed to have.With in-home care services, theres a lower risk that your mom or dad will miss a dose of an important medication or take the wrong dose of a particular medication. Help with Household Cleaning and MaintenanceSeniors who have mobility challenges often have a difficult time keeping up with household chores. In-home care providers help seniors with light housekeeping tasks that keep the home clean and comfortable.Care providers can do chores like sweeping, mopping, dusting, laundry, changing linens, taking out the trash, and doing the dishes. Having someone else do the chores can be a big help for your mom or dad. Assistance with ErrandsWhether its going to the grocery store, picking up prescriptions, or visiting the post office, these routine tasks are challenging or sometimes painful for seniors who have a hard time getting around.If your mom or dad has in-home care a care provider can run to the bank, the post office, the pharmacy, or the grocery store for your mom or dad so that they can stay home comfortably but still get the things they need. Transportation to Medical AppointmentsRegular visits to healthcare providers are essential for seniors, especially those managing chronic health conditions. However, seniors with mobility challenges may find getting to their medical appointments very exhausting and overwhelming because of their limited mobility.In-home caregivers can provide safe, reliable transportation to and from medical appointments, ensuring that seniors never miss a check-up or treatment session. Peace of Mind for FamiliesIn-home care services benefit seniors and provide peace of mind for their families. Knowing that a qualified caregiver is assisting with daily taskssuch as medication reminders, household cleaning, errands, and transportation, which reassures family members that their loved ones are well cared for.It can be difficult for families who live far away or have other responsibilities to consistently provide the level of care seniors need. In-home care bridges this gap by providing consistent, compassionate support for seniors. If you or an aging loved one are considering In-Home Care in Commerce City, CO, please contact the caring staff at Talem Home Care & Placement Services today. Call (720) 789-8529At Talem Home Care of Broomfield, we provide passionate, understanding, and flexible caregivers in Broomfield, Arvada, Aurora, Boulder, Brighton, Commerce City, Denver, Erie, Firestone, Lafayette, Lakewood, Longmont, Louisville, Northglenn, Sherrelwood, Thornton, Welby, Westminster, Wheat Ridge and surrounding areas in Colorado.
Pelham's Trusted, Quality In-Home Senior Care Provider! Right at Home offers a range of services to support individuals with serious health issues and seniors who need assistance to maintain their independence at home. Companion care focuses on providing assistance with household tasks and promoting social interaction to enhance well-being. Personal care services assist with daily activities such as hygiene and mobility, allowing seniors to remain at home with dignity. Specialty care is available for those with unique needs, with caregivers trained to provide both practical support and emotional reassurance. Nursing services provide medical support tailored to the individual's needs, ensuring quality care without the need for hospitalization. Right at Home also ensures comprehensive support for injured workers through specialized caregiver training and assistance navigating the worker's compensation process, ensuring they receive the care and resources they need to recover comfortably at home. Contact Right at Home for more information on how they can help support you and your loved ones, regardless of where the individual calls home. Accredited by The Joint Commission. Please visit www.RAHSouth.com to see all of our locations. Nurses and Social Workers can visit www.RAHCEU.com for our online continuing education units. For those seeking careers, please visit www.RAHapply.com.
Huntsville's Trusted, Quality In-Home Senior Care Provider! Right at Home offers a range of services to support individuals with serious health issues and seniors who need assistance to maintain their independence at home. Companion care focuses on providing assistance with household tasks and promoting social interaction to enhance well-being. Personal care services assist with daily activities such as hygiene and mobility, allowing seniors to remain at home with dignity. Specialty care is available for those with unique needs, with caregivers trained to provide both practical support and emotional reassurance. Nursing services provide medical support tailored to the individual's needs, ensuring quality care without the need for hospitalization. Right at Home also ensures comprehensive support for injured workers through specialized caregiver training and assistance navigating the worker's compensation process, ensuring they receive the care and resources they need to recover comfortably at home. Contact Right at Home for more information on how they can help support you and your loved ones, regardless of where the individual calls home. Accredited by The Joint Commission. Please visit www.RAHSouth.com to see all of our locations. Nurses and Social Workers can visit www.RAHCEU.com for our online continuing education units. For those seeking careers, please visit www.RAHapply.com.
Mountain Brook's Trusted, Quality In-Home Senior Care Provider! Right at Home offers a range of services to support individuals with serious health issues and seniors who need assistance to maintain their independence at home. Companion care focuses on providing assistance with household tasks and promoting social interaction to enhance well-being. Personal care services assist with daily activities such as hygiene and mobility, allowing seniors to remain at home with dignity. Specialty care is available for those with unique needs, with caregivers trained to provide both practical support and emotional reassurance. Nursing services provide medical support tailored to the individual's needs, ensuring quality care without the need for hospitalization. Right at Home also ensures comprehensive support for injured workers through specialized caregiver training and assistance navigating the worker's compensation process, ensuring they receive the care and resources they need to recover comfortably at home. Contact Right at Home for more information on how they can help support you and your loved ones, regardless of where the individual calls home. Accredited by The Joint Commission. Please visit www.RAHSouth.com to see all of our locations. Nurses and Social Workers can visit www.RAHCEU.com for our online continuing education units. For those seeking careers, please visit www.RAHapply.com.