In our last blog, we unveiled some of the main physical ailments brought on by arthritis and osteoarthritis. These conditions afflict about six million Canadians. That’s about a fifth of our population, Arthritis Society Canada tells us, noting that “arthritis strikes people of every age, from infants to adults, and stays for life.”
Our last blog also highlighted some important ways that sufferers of arthritis and osteoarthritis could contend with its symptoms. Focusing on nutrition and exercise topped our list of tips. Staying active, you see, is a key ingredient to optimum health, no matter your age.
Enjoy the great outdoors.
Walking for just 30 minutes a day can help reduce the risk of developing heart disease, type 2 diabetes and osteoporosis. The low-impact exercise also increases cardiovascular and pulmonary (heart and lung) fitness, reduces the risk of stroke and helps to lower blood pressure and cholesterol. Arthritis sufferers also benefit from walking and other outdoor activities as they help to lower joint and muscular pain or stiffness.
“Explore a new trail, walk and pick berries, or go mountain biking,” suggests MyHealth.Alberta.ca, “Try dressing warm and go outside. Check out hard-to-reach places on snowshoes and skis, or go skating outside. Don’t let waiting for ice time at an indoor rink stop you from being active…Staying active during the winter is good for your physical and mental health.”
Devise a 7-day workout routine.
Many people scoff at the idea of regular exercise, contending that “there isn’t enough time” for it in their busy schedules. That’s why it’s so important to create a daily schedule that includes time for working out. After all, being healthy is something you should be busy doing! Why wouldn’t you prioritize it? By creating a specific workout routine, broken up by each day of the week, you will work wonders in bettering your health.
For example, on Monday, you can focus on cardio. Consider the outdoor walks we just mentioned. On Tuesday, work your lower body by doing a series of squats and lunges. On Wednesday, work your upper body and core through push ups and sit ups. On Thursday, schedule some rest for recovery. This is a very important part of any exercise regimen. On Friday, return to working your lower body. On Saturday, go back to your upper body again. Rest on Sunday!
Enjoy the great indoors.
Okay, so it’s too cold during the winter for you to go outside on a regular basis? That’s perfectly understandable. There are plenty of ways to stay active while staying inside. WeightLossOptions.ca reminds us that our household chores are excellent calorie-burning activities. Incorporating them into your daily routine helps you to both increase your physical activity and cross items off of your to-do list.
The site lists washing floors, vacuuming carpets, watering potted plants, ironing, manually washing dishes and playing with children or grandchildren as healthy indoor activities.
Is there an aging loved one in your family who is suffering from arthritis or osteoarthritis?
Naturally, it’s important to provide them with the type of care that will minimize their pain and discomfort. At Senior Homecare by Angels, we proudly offer Arthritis and Osteoarthritis Support Services. Our full range of support services include physical therapy and massage; exercise and occupational therapy.
To learn more, please don’t hesitate to call Senior Homecare by Angels at 403-862-0129. If you are outside of Calgary, you can call us toll-free at 1-877-209-6142. You may also visit our Contact Us page to complete and submit a simple contact form!