Elderly Care: Managing Chronic Pain from Arthritis

Arthritis is an all too common health problem among the elderly. With it comes pain in different forms, such as a burning, sharp, dull, or numbing sensation in the joints. Pain is considered chronic when it lasts longer than three months and can even be a lifetime burden for others. It may come and go, or it may be constant.

Aching joints can make it difficult for seniors to perform daily activities such as looking after children or cleaning the house. The good news is that there are ways to effectively manage the pain—and you can help. Here is what you can do to help an ageing loved one feel better:

1. Arrange for manual therapy

There are many kinds of hands-on treatments that help in managing arthritis symptoms, and one of them is massage therapy. A licensed physiotherapist uses different techniques to manipulate tendons, skin, and muscles. For seniors in residential care, therapy sessions can be arranged with the clinical support team

2. Encourage regular exercise

Stiff joints can be effectively mobilised through manual therapy but they need to be maintained with exercise. It might seem that being active could put stress on an ageing body, but gentle routines can actually help in reducing joint and muscle pain. Low or non-impact workouts such as cycling, swimming, or walking are highly recommended. Yoga is another option worth looking into as traditional poses can be modified according to the individual.

3. Be mindful of their weight

Maintaining a healthy weight can be beneficial in the management of joint pain as well. Studies show that weight loss can lower the need for medication in people with rheumatoid arthritis. Regular exercise can be effective for this purpose but should be paired with a proper diet. There is some evidence that omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation. You can speak with the food services team regarding custom meals if your loved one is staying in an aged care residence.

Bonus Tip: Keep things positive

If there’s one thing you should tell a senior suffering from chronic pain, it’s that they should never let the pain keep them from enjoying their life. It is entirely possible for them to stick to regular physical activity, including walking and swimming. They just need to believe in that idea and in themselves first.

Many other older adults with a medical condition find that a positive attitude can boost the ability to cope with pain. So, it is important to find ways to keep their mind off of it. Help your loved one to do the things they enjoy instead and keep their spirits high. Visit them often, be it at their own home or at a care residence. Additionally, bear in mind the tips shared above.

Contact Pure Physio in Albany

If you’re looking for a specialist in manual therapy located in the North Shore of Auckland, simply contact us. We have the experience and expertise in getting pain not just treated but actually cured. Talk to us to get more details.