The euphemisms “pain in the neck” and even “pain in the butt” are often used to describe something that causes us emotional struggles. For many people, those idioms are literal realities. Although there are numerous issues that can impact comfort and mobility, both arthritis and osteoarthritis are top culprits. Arthritis Society Canada reveals that 6 million Canadians contend with arthritis. That number is expected to rise to 9 million by 2040.
Arthritis is most easily defined as inflammation of the joints. Symptoms include redness, swelling, pain and stiffness. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. In addition to aging, it can be caused by overuse or damage to joint tissue. As Arthritis Society Canada informs, individuals with arthritis are five times more likely to have mobility problems than those who don’t suffer from the condition.
Reduced mobility and limited independence.
Quite clearly, arthritis and osteoarthritis can inhibit an older person from performing everyday tasks with ease. Stiffness and swelling in the joints create limitations in one’s range of motion. Such supposedly simple actions as bending, lifting can be very difficult. Because arthritis and osteoarthritis reduces the mobility of sufferers, they often have to seek assistance with getting around their homes and communities.
Daily living activities like bathing, grooming and household chores often require the assistance of others. For many seniors, this loss of independence can be particularly distressing. It often leads to feelings of inadequacy and a diminished sense of self-worth. Arthritis and osteoarthritis sufferers are twice as likely to have mental health issues than the rest of us, says Arthritis Society Canada. That brings us to our next point.
Emotional and mental health struggles.
Let it be made clear that arthritis and osteoarthritis cause more than just physical limitations. Older adults who contend with chronic pain and reduced mobility are at an increased risk of developing depression and anxiety. Understandably, constantly struggling with both pain and the loss of independence can lead to feelings of sadness, anger, frustration and isolation. As a result, social withdrawal is common in sufferers.
“Studies have shown that people with arthritis are more likely to experience anxiety and depression than people without arthritis,” says Arthritis Society Canada, “The good news is that there are simple actions you can take to help look after your mental health, which in turn can help improve your physical health. Research has demonstrated the ‘plasticity of well-being,’ meaning that we can learn to improve our mental well-being through training and practice.”
Contact Senior Homecare by Angels for help!
We proudly offer Arthritis and Osteoarthritis Support Services. If an aging loved one in your family is suffering from arthritis or osteoarthritis, it’s likely that they are in need of some type of support. It’s also possible that those who have managed fairly independent lifestyles for some time will need to accept some help eventually. Our caregivers can provide transportation or pick up groceries and help with meal preparation. They also visit regularly to keep seniors from getting lonely.
To learn more about how Senior Homecare by Angels helps those with arthritis and osteoarthritis, please feel free to call us at 403-862-0129 or if outside of Calgary, toll-free at 1-877-209-6142. You may also visit our Contact Us page to complete and submit a simple contact form!