Seniors with joint pain may find they’re not able to do the things they once loved, which may decrease their quality of life, even leading to depression. As this is already an issue with seniors, it’s important for their support team—including loved ones and companion care at home providers—to do all they can to help seniors manage this pain if possible. The good news is that several useful techniques can support mobility by reducing joint pain so that seniors can get back to socializing and doing the things they love.
Some tips that may help seniors with this are explored below.
Low-Impact Exercises
For many seniors, these exercises are the first they should focus on, particularly walking, as it can be done in their neighborhood and it’s free. Also, companion care at home can walk with them to ensure they’re on track and balanced.
Walking: Seniors can increase flexibility and lubricate their joints by taking a stroll in supportive shoes. As mentioned, this exercise is free and can be done near their home. In colder weather, seniors can even be encouraged to walk inside their houses or try a walking workout video.
Swimming and Water Aerobics: Both of these options are excellent cardiovascular exercises that also decrease joint stress. However, seniors might not have access to a pool.
Yoga or Tai Chi: These workouts strengthen bones, increase flexibility, and improve balance without putting undue strain on the joints. Seniors can either join a class targeted for their capabilities or enjoy a workout video online at home.
Strength Workouts
Strength training could power up the muscles and decrease joint pain for seniors. Some of the options they might enjoy include the following:
Resistance Bands: Working out with resistance bands can easily be done in the home, and the bands don’t take up any space. Seniors can start with low resistance and work their way up to build stronger muscles surrounding the joints, which enhances stability and reduces discomfort.
Light Weights: Under supervision, using light dumbbells or ankle weights can help preserve muscle tone and support joint function.
Range of Motion Exercises
Joint pain can decrease a senior’s range of motion, which impacts their mobility. Companion care at home can encourage them to try the following exercises to see if they help. However, seniors should start slowly so they don’t increase, rather than decrease, their joint pain.
Joint stretches: Mild stretches can help afflicted joints become more flexible and less stiff.
Riding a bike: Riding a bike, whether outside or on a stationary bike, helps strengthen leg muscles and increase joint mobility.
Assistive Devices
Beyond the exercises listed above, seniors might also try certain tools to help reduce their joint pain, such as the following:
Orthopedic Devices: Orthopaedic footwear or shoe inserts can lessen joint strain by offering support and cushioning.
Walkers or canes: These mobility aids, especially for seniors experiencing hip or knee pain, offer stability and reduce their risk of falling.
Hot and Cold Therapy: Seniors may be able to reduce inflammation and pain in their joints by using heating pads or cold packs.
With the help of companion care at home, seniors can effectively manage their joint pain and enhance their overall quality of life by implementing these tips into their daily routines.
Sources: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arthritis/in-depth/arthritis/art-20046440
https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/managing-pain/joint-protection/tips-for-healthy-knees
https://www.ocanamedicalcenter.com/joint-pain-in-older-adults-best-home-remedies-and-treatments
If you or an aging loved one are considering Companion Care at Home Services in Pompano Beach FL, please get in touch with the caring staff at Star Multi Care today. Call 954-962-0926
Star Multi Care is a Trusted Home Care Agency in Florida including Palm Beach, Miami Dade, and Broward County.
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