May is Arthritis Awareness Month, so we wanted to take some time to discuss arthritis and help raise awareness about it.

Arthritis is a condition that afflicts millions of individuals, particularly the aging population. It is not one singular disease but rather a collection and catch-all term for over 100 inflammatory joint diseases, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis. As we age, the chances of developing arthritis increase, so seniors need to be knowledgeable about it and understand how to deal with it.

Arthritis can lead to ongoing pain, stiffness, swelling, and restricted mobility that can affect everyday life and quality of life. However, with the right information and resources, seniors can successfully manage arthritis symptoms and lead an active lifestyle. In this article, we will discuss why Arthritis Awareness Month matters, share tips on how to manage arthritis, and offer resources for seniors who want to take charge of their joint health.

Understanding Arthritis

Arthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joints breaks down, leading to inflammation and pain. The most widespread types of arthritis are:

• Osteoarthritis (OA): This type is usually age-related and involves the gradual wear and tear of the cartilage in the joint. OA most often affects the knees, hips, hands, and spine.
• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): An autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, resulting in inflammation and joint damage. RA can affect joints on both sides of the body, for example, hands, wrists, and knees.

Though arthritis is not necessarily a part of aging, the condition can become more prevalent as individuals age. Almost 50% of adults 65 years and older have some type of arthritis, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Why Arthritis Awareness Month Is Important

Arthritis Awareness Month serves to educate individuals on the prevalence of arthritis, its impact, and the importance of having early diagnosis and treatment. In older adults, arthritis can significantly influence independence, mobility, and overall health. The goal of Arthritis Awareness Month is to:

1. Increase Understanding: Through a better understanding of arthritis, older adults can manage their condition and receive appropriate care.

2. Promote Early Detection: The Earlier arthritis is identified, the more effectively it can be managed by lifestyle change and medical intervention.

3. Support Management: Arthritis does not have to limit your life. With effective management, seniors can manage symptoms and continue to live a productive life.

Tips on Managing Arthritis as a Senior

Having arthritis does not mean giving up your independence or enjoying life any less. There are plenty of ways that seniors can manage their condition and reduce symptoms:

1. Remain Active with Gentle Exercise

Exercise is one of the best methods for controlling arthritis. Movement regularly keeps joints flexible and lessens stiffness. Low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming, or cycling are excellent options. Yoga and tai chi can also improve flexibility, balance, and strength, and decrease the risk of falls.

2. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Extra weight puts additional stress on weight-bearing joints, like the hips and knees. Being at a healthy weight can reduce the stress on your joints, making it easier to move and reducing pain. A healthy, balanced diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and low in processed foods can help foster overall health and weight management.

3. Use Heat and Cold to Manage Pain

Heat or cold on arthritic joints can reduce pain and inflammation. A warm bath or heating pad can loosen tight muscles, and cold packs can reduce swelling and numb sudden pain. Always keep ice or heat wrapped in a cloth or towel so that it doesn’t have direct contact with your skin.

4. Explore Joint Protection Techniques

Knowing how to protect your joints can reduce pain and prevent further injury. Use supportive aids such as canes, walkers, or splints to assist with mobility. For tasks such as opening jars or lifting, use tools that reduce the strain on your joints.

5. Medication and Supplementation

For others, medication will be necessary to manage arthritis pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can provide temporary relief. In more severe cases, doctors will prescribe disease-modifying drugs or biologics in an attempt to manage inflammation. Some seniors also find relief with supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin, but one should speak with a doctor before starting any new treatment.

6. Consult a Physical or Occupational Therapist

Physical and occupational therapists can also offer expert advice on living with arthritis. A physical therapist can teach you exercises that strengthen the muscles around affected joints, and an occupational therapist can help you learn new ways of doing everyday tasks with less strain on your joints.

7. Join Support Groups

Living with arthritis can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. Joining a support group, whether in-person or online, can provide emotional support, tips for managing arthritis, and the opportunity to connect with others facing similar challenges.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience persistent joint pain, swelling, or stiffness that does not improve with over-the-counter medication or home care, you should consult a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis and treatment can slow arthritis and prevent further joint damage.

A doctor may order:

• Blood tests to identify autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis
• X-rays or MRIs to assess joint damage
• Joint aspiration (removing fluid from the joint) to analyze for infection or crystals that cause gout

At Senior Industry Services, we understand that aging brings with it some particular concerns, and arthritis is one of the most common and impactful conditions that seniors face. We aim to provide helpful resources, support, and guidance to help seniors address these concerns and have an excellent quality of life. Whether it’s managing arthritis and being active, to accessing the right services and support, we’re here to assist you every step of the way.

We know that arthritis does not have to dominate your life, and with the right information and tools, seniors can continue to live purposeful and active lives. 

By raising awareness during Arthritis Awareness Month, we hope to enable seniors to become advocates for their joint health and general well-being. At Senior Industry Services, we care about your health and are committed to helping you manage arthritis through education, compassion, and individualized support.

Your health and happiness are our top priority, and we’re beside you every step of the way. Learn more about all the incredible resources Senior Industry Services has to offer by exploring our website today! Our goal is to serve the seniors and families of seniors and make Central Texas the best place for seniors to age. 

References

Arthritis Foundation. (n.d.). Arthritis Awareness Month. Retrieved from https://www.arthritis.org/about-arthritis/arthritis-awareness-month

Written for Senior Industry Services by Lauren Hope Bartling