Arthritis is a common health issue among the elderly, primarily caused by inflammation of joints. It is the leading cause of disability in the United States, preventing seniors from leading healthy lives. According to the Centers for Disease Control report, around 58.5 million* adults are suffering from doctor-diagnosed arthritis in the US.
There are several factors that can cause arthritis in seniors. The most common risk factors are as follows:
- Extra pounds can put more strain on the joints. Therefore, putting the elderly at a higher risk for arthritis.
- If there is an untreated injury, older adults are more likely to develop arthritis from it.
- Arthritis can be hereditary and inherited if you have it in your family. A study shows that 40% and 65% of osteoarthritis have a genetic component.
- Weak muscles can also put you at risk of developing arthritis if they are unable to support the joints.
Symptoms of Arthritis in the Elderly
Recognizing these symptoms is crucial to begin arthritis treatment for seniors as soon as possible. The most common type of arthritis among older adults is a degenerative joint condition known as osteoarthritis. There is also a type of autoimmune arthritis called rheumatoid arthritis, caused by the body’s immune system attacking the joints. The signs and symptoms of the different kinds of arthritis may vary. However, there are some common symptoms that are prevalent among seniors suffering from arthritis which include the following:
- Joint swelling or erythema
- Joint pain and discomfort
- Stiffness in the joint
- Redness in the joint area
- Difficulty in movement
Tips to Prevent & Manage Arthritis in Seniors
Due to age-related degeneration of bones and joints, seniors are at a significantly higher risk of developing arthritis. Often, the pain and discomfort caused by arthritis can make it difficult for them to carry out basic daily activities. Therefore, it prevents them from leading a good quality of life. However, a few healthy habits and lifestyle changes can help seniors to manage the symptoms efficiently. Here are 6 ways to manage arthritis in seniors.
Follow a healthy diet
The primary cause of arthritis is joint inflammation. In addition, obesity also contributes to the development of arthritis. It is possible to reduce both risk factors by following a healthy diet. Maintain a healthy weight by incorporating more fiber, green veggies, and fruits into your diet. Switch to a well-balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods such as oily salmon, olive oil, almonds, berries, etc. However, make sure to consult a nutritionist or dietitian to avoid additional health complications.
Never skip exercise
- The muscles that support the joint can be strengthened by swimming, playing tennis or walking.
- To relieve joint pain, try range-of-motion exercises like dancing and yoga.
- Try aerobic exercises such as cycling and jogging to improve your heart rate. These exercises are also useful for weight management and enhance the overall functioning of the joints.
Keep your body hydrated
Discover more: Electrolytes & 6 Hydration Drinks for the Elderly
Wear proper footwear
The right pair of shoes can go a long way in managing arthritis in seniors. Your posture is affected if the shoes do not fit correctly or provide sufficient space for your toes. Therefore, wearing the wrong-size shoes can cause discomfort and damage the joint bones and muscles. Footwear needs to be wide enough to keep your foot, especially bunions or calluses areas safe from getting injured. Avoid heels and wear comfortable footwear instead.
Lose extra pounds
According to the CDC, almost 23% of overweight and 31% of obese Americans have been diagnosed with arthritis. Multiple studies have shown that losing weight can reduce the strain on muscles and joints. Moreover, it is also possible to control overall inflammation by reducing the body’s fat stores. Therefore, losing weight can slow down the degeneration process and lower the risk of arthritis.
Get adequate rest
It is crucial to give your body enough time to heal by obtaining enough sleep and relaxation. When knee pain or joint pain is at its peak after engaging in any physical activity, adequate rest is the most effective medicine to reduce the discomfort. Do not exercise during these times, and drink plenty of fluids.
Treatments for Arthritis
Medical Treatment
Alternative Remedies
Alternative treatments like acupuncture, physical therapy, hot and cold compress, and yoga are also useful in relieving the pain from arthritis amongst seniors. Acupuncture uses super-fine needles to lower levels of chemicals in your body linked to inflammation. On the other hand, hot and cold compression is efficient in curbing joint swelling, inflammation and relaxing muscles that support the joints.
The Bottom Line
Although arthritis is more likely to develop as you age, following a few healthy habits and making a few lifestyle changes can reduce its symptoms. These measures can also prevent it from worsening over time. However, there is no current cure for arthritis, and it is not entirely preventable. Thus, it is advisable to consult primary care physicians if seniors show any symptoms.
For any queries about senior health and wellness, contact EliteCare HC, a leading healthcare center in Florida offering a wide range of senior care services. Schedule an appointment with our primary care physicians now!
* Data retrieved from Arthritis Related Statistics | CDC. (n.d.).
