Senior Care Experts Share Tips For Preventing & Treating Arthritis

According to the CDC, a whopping 54 million adults in the United States were told they are suffering from arthritis between 2013 - 2015.  Osteoarthritis and gout are two of the more common forms of arthritis, but experts say that there are more than 100 different types of the disease. If you or a loved one is suffering from arthritis, there is a lot you can do to help. Here are some of the main ways you can prevent and treat arthritis, according to senior care services experts.

Eat more fish

Besides being just about the healthiest protein you can consume, fish is also a great way to help prevent arthritis. Fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and helps your body reduce any inflammation that can occur as a result of arthritis. If fish isn’t an option for you, other lean meats such as chicken are also useful.

Be sure to get plenty of exercise

It’s no secret that regular exercise leads to better health overall, but it’s especially important in the prevention and treatment of arthritis. Senior care services experts say that strengthening the areas around your joints by exercising can reduce the inflammation and soreness associated with arthritis. Additionally, many personal trainers and senior care facilities offer exercises and stretches that help with arthritis of all types.

Eat antioxidant-rich food, such as cherries

Cherries are packed with antioxidants which can help reduce a senior’s chance of developing gout later in life. Strawberries, kale, tomatoes and cranberries are also great sources of antioxidants, so try to get plenty of fruit and vegetables in your diet.

Early diagnosis is key

Getting an early diagnosis can be the difference between a pain-free life and a pain-filled life as you get older. Senior care services experts say early diagnosis and treatment of arthritis can help prevent permanent joint damage.

Applying heat & cold

Like with other pain or swelling, applying cold or hot packs to the affected area can be extremely useful when dealing with arthritis. Senior care services experts recommend having hot and cold packs on hand if over the counter drugs just aren’t cutting it.

Like many diseases that seniors can get later in life, arthritis is treatable if it is accurately diagnosed and treated by an expert. Eating well and getting plenty of exercise is key, but genetic factors that can’t be controlled can also cause arthritis. Because of this, it is still important to be aware of the symptoms in case you develop a form of arthritis later in life. If arthritis is detected and treated early enough, you and loved ones can live your final years relatively pain free.