Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis in older adults. It is also one of the most common causes of physical disability in adults.
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the tissues that cushion the ends of bones in the joints break down over time. These changes usually develop slowly and gradually get worse, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling.
In some cases, people with the condition are no longer able to work or perform daily tasks.
There is no way to reverse osteoarthritis, but the symptoms of osteoarthritis can often be controlled with lifestyle changes
What healthy lifestyle changes help manage arthritis in older adults?
Due to age-related bone and joint degeneration, older adults are at significantly higher risk of developing arthritis. Often, the pain and discomfort caused by arthritis can make it difficult for them to perform basic daily activities. Therefore, it prevents them from having a good quality of life.
A healthy lifestyle can help seniors manage their symptoms effectively. Here are 6 ways that can help manage arthritis in seniors:
1. Eat a healthy diet
The main cause of arthritis is arthritis. In addition, obesity also contributes to arthritis. Both of these risk factors can be reduced by following a healthy diet. Maintain a healthy weight by adding more fiber, green vegetables and fruits to your diet, switching to a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods such as oily salmon, olive oil, almonds, berries, etc.
2. Don’t forget to exercise
One of the most effective treatments for knee pain is regular exercise. A successful exercise program includes a combination of three types of exercises.
- Walking is great for helping your muscles and joints function better.
- Try dynamic exercises like dancing and yoga to relieve joint pain
- Aerobic exercises like cycling and jogging improve your heart rate. These exercises are also helpful for weight control and overall joint function.
3. Keep your body hydrated
About 70% to 80% of the cartilage in your joints is made up of water. Therefore, dehydration can aggravate arthritis and joint discomfort. In addition, water acts as a hydrating agent to distribute essential nutrients like potassium, sodium, bicarbonate, and chloride. Dehydration interferes with the distribution of these nutrients throughout the body and prevents the body from naturally repairing itself. This, in turn, aggravates arthritis pain.
4. Wear the right shoes
A pair of shoes that fit well can go a long way in helping to manage arthritis in older adults. Your posture is affected if your shoes don’t fit properly or don’t have enough space for your toes. Wearing the wrong size shoes can cause discomfort and damage to your joints and muscles. Shoes should be roomy enough to keep your feet, especially areas with calluses or bone spurs, from getting injured. Avoid wearing high heels and wear comfortable shoes instead.
5. Lose weight
Losing weight can reduce stress on your muscles and joints, and it can also control overall inflammation by reducing the amount of fat stored in your body. Therefore, losing weight can slow down the degeneration process and reduce your risk of arthritis.
6. Get plenty of rest
It is important to give your body enough time to heal by getting enough sleep and relaxation. When knee or joint pain peaks after engaging in any physical activity, adequate rest is the most effective remedy to alleviate the discomfort. Avoid exercising during this time and drink plenty of water.
