Exercise and Arthritis

Living with arthritis is not always easy. During an arthritis flare, the thought of moving might be enough to keep seniors sitting on the couch for as long as possible. But a regular exercise routine can do so much to help aging adults with arthritis live fuller and happier lives with less pain. Senior home care providers can help seniors to put routines in place that allow them to exercise safely and do all the other things they want to do as well.

Physical Activity Can Help Arthritis

Joint-friendly exercise can improve pain, joint mobility, and overall quality of life. Lack of exercise contributes to painful, stiff joints, and it also exacerbates muscle loss, which further leaves joints unsupported. Exercising improves bone strength, improves balance, boosts energy and mood, and can also improve quality of sleep. Moving joints that are affected by arthritis helps to lubricate the joints and keep the muscles around them strong.

Exercises to Choose

The best exercises for seniors with arthritis to choose are ones that are low-impact. These types of exercise are less stressful on the entire body, including arthritic joints. Exercises that help to improve range of motion are excellent, as are strength exercises. Options that seniors might want to consider could include swimming, water aerobics, yoga, or simply walking more often. Finding exercises that they enjoy helps aging adults to stick with their plan and gain real results.

Start Out Slowly

When seniors are ready to start a new exercise routine to deal with arthritis, they might be tempted to jump into it full steam ahead. But that can be overwhelming, especially to arthritic joints. Home care providers can help seniors to remember to pace themselves, which can help them to acclimate to exercise and gradually become stronger.

Modify Exercises When Necessary

Between arthritis and other health issues, seniors are going to have good days and bad days. On the good days, they may be able to engage in exercise exactly how they want and at the pace they want to do it. Making modifications, like walking slower on bad pain days or cutting the walk shorter than usual, can help seniors to get some movement in but avoid overdoing it as well.

Talk to Medical Providers Before Starting an Exercise Regimen

Any time seniors are planning to make changes to their activity levels, especially trying a new plan for exercising more, they should talk with their doctors first. This ensures that their doctors are aware of those plans and can offer advice to help make those plans more successful. Seniors need to have an idea of what their limits might be with exercise so that they don’t try to push themselves too hard, too quickly.

Senior home care providers can be there for seniors with arthritis who want to exercise more and who are having trouble with daily tasks. They can make life easier and safer, while also offering companionship and the hands-on support to get things done. If seniors need help cooking, keeping up with household tasks, or with transportation, professional caregivers can address those issues.

If you or an aging loved one are considering Senior Home Care in Southfork, NY, call the caring staff at Artful Home Care today at (631) 685-5001