How to Manage Arthritis Pain as You Age

Do you feel stiffer these days? Do you wake up feeling achy and take a while to “warm up”? If so, you might be dealing with arthritis. One of the most common conditions for older adults in assisted living Fountain Hills, arthritis can make daily activities more challenging, but there are many ways to deal with it.

Look for Signs and Get Diagnosed Early

First, make note of any symptoms you’re experiencing. Do your joints feel swollen, stiff, or sore? Do you have pain in the mornings or after sitting for a while? If so, these may be early warning signs of arthritis. The next step is to see your doctor and get a diagnosis. There are many different types of arthritis (including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis), and it’s important to know what type you have in order to treat it.

Easy Tips to Help Relieve Arthritis Pain

There are also many simple ways to make pain more manageable and increase mobility.

Exercise regularly

Moving your body is important for keeping joints flexible and muscles strong. Consider low-impact exercises like walking, water aerobics, or yoga to increase mobility and ease pain.

Manage your weight

If you’re overweight, it can cause additional pressure on your joints and make pain worse. Cutting back on calories and increasing activity can help manage your weight and reduce pain.

Medication

Talk to your doctor about medications or topical creams that can help relieve pain. Joint supplements, heat/cold therapy, and other over-the-counter options are also available, but make sure to check that they won’t react with any other medications you’re taking.

Create a comfortable living environment

There are also many simple changes you can make around the home to improve your quality of life, such as:

• installing grab bars in the bathroom
• using jar openers or grabber tools to assist with everyday tasks
• ensuring your living environment is well-lit to reduce trip hazards
• investing in adaptive tools like chairs or utensils designed for arthritic hands

Ask for help when you need it

Finally, don’t be afraid to reach out for support when you need it. This can mean leaning on friends and family for help with day-to-day activities, or it can mean turning to professionals at retirement communities for assistance. Here the staff are trained to provide compassionate care to those with arthritis and other physical conditions. From creating activity programs that keep you moving to ensuring you have a nutritious diet that supports your joints, everything at a senior living community is done with your well-being in mind.

Focus on Positivity

It’s important to stay engaged with the things you love. Spend time with friends who encourage you. Find hobbies that help you relax and relieve stress. Listen to music, meditate, or go for a walk outside and get some fresh air. It won’t make the pain go away, but a positive attitude can help you better manage arthritis.

Arthritis may be a part of life, but it doesn’t have to slow you down. With the right support, tools, and a positive attitude, you can remain active and independent in senior living Scottsdale.