4 Things You Can Do for a Loved One with Osteoarthritis
Elderly Care in Jenison MI
If your loved one has been diagnosed with osteoarthritis you probably already know that she spends a good bit of time in pain. While it might not feel that there’s much that you can do for her, 
there really is quite a bit you can do.
Learn as Much as You Can about Osteoarthritis
The more that you know and understand about osteoarthritis, the better an advocate that you can be for your loved one. In some cases, your loved one may be in so much pain that she doesn’t really tune in at her doctor’s appointments. You can be there to make sure that all of her questions and concerns are addressed. You can also be her advocate in other situations, say when she needs accommodations in order to eat out or to attend an event with the rest of the family. The more that you are able to explain to others, the more you can do for your loved one.
Make Sure that She Has Help if She Needs It
No matter how much time you have available for your elderly loved one, you still can’t be there every minute of every day. It’s important that if your loved one needs elderly care providers they’re available for her. You may only need them for a few hours a week, but knowing that your loved one isn’t alone or unable to get the help that she needs is priceless.
Make the Home as Safe as Possible
The last thing that your loved one needs is to trip and fall if she’s also dealing with osteoarthritis. Falls are dangerous enough, but when you add in a painful joint condition, they’re to be avoided even more stringently. Look for loose rugs or carpeting as well as anything else that can cause a tripping hazard. It’s also a good idea to make sure that there are hand rails throughout the house in case your loved one needs to reach out for assistance. Check the lighting and do a general safety check as well. This is something you should do regularly.
Help Her Eat Right and Move More
Your loved one might not feel that moving her joints is very helpful at first, but exercise is actually good for her. If she needs to lose a few pounds, then the exercise is even more beneficial. Do a quick check of her diet, while you’re at it. Gradually add more fruits and vegetables and make sure that she’s eating more whole foods and less processed foods.
Taking care of a loved one with osteoarthritis means looking for even small ways to make her life easier.
If you or someone you know needs help with elderly care in Jenison, MI, contact Gauthier Family Home Care. We provide quality and affordable home care services in our community. Call us at (616) 258-2300 for more information.
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