Senior Living Experts in Chicago, have the resources and staff to make life easier for their patients struggling with arthritis symptoms. Arthritis affects more than 50 million Americans, and is a debilitating disease with life-changing consequences. Arthritis refers to musculoskeletal disorders that encompass more than 100 types of joint conditions and diseases. Symptoms include chronic pain, which can reduce range-of-motion and limit mobility. Assisted living facilities in Schaumburg, near Chicago, strive to make life easier for residents and patients living with various types of arthritis, through a collaboration and network of methods, practitioners, and techniques.Some alarming facts about living with arthritis include these statistics:

Arthritis currently affects 53 million adults and 300,000 children in the US, alone.
Arthritis has been identified as the leading cause of disability in the United States.
Arthritis can affect people of all ages, genders and races, though seniors over the age of 65 represent 2/3 of all arthritis sufferers.

Age may add to the challenges of living with arthritis, too. It may be difficult for seniors to access services, treatment, and support- particularly when they live independently. Residential and living facilities may be able to assist in giving these individuals relief from the life-altering symptoms of arthritis, in a supportive and welcoming community.

Staff at assisted living facilities near Schaumburg employ the following approaches with arthritis-sufferers:

Support independence.

Residential and living facilities strive to improve quality of life including the use of assistive devices and equipment, to help arthritis sufferers manage symptoms and go about their daily routine. Staff may also help patients make positive and healthy lifestyle choices, which leads to better self-management when living with arthritis. Living facilities support independence and will work in a treatment team to determine the best approaches, strategies, and solutions to foster well-being and help patients thrive.

Increase physical activity.

It might be difficult for those struggling with arthritis to get the physical activity needed to ease symptoms and maintain mobility. In an assisted living facility, there is often a focus on exercises that can strengthen muscles to support your joints, which can decrease pain. The staff can also identify low-impact exercises that will increase range of motion, and prevent falls or injuries occurring from a limited range of movement. Physical activity has been touted as being a natural way to improve sleep quality and boost mood, plus it may help residents shed excess weight that could be causing stress or strain on painful joints.

Manage pain and fatigue.

Another approach taken by support professionals is effective pain management. This means finding the best medications that will help the individual function, free from discomfort. There are many new, alternative treatments that may also be employed, which focus on a holistic method of healing and alleviating pain. Some alternative techniques include:

Heat therapy.
Visualization practice, which can also relieve stress and lower depression.
Aromatherapy, including the scent of rosemary, peppermint, and ginger.
Vitamins and herbal supplements.

Fatigue is also a concern caused by the underlying disease, and that can stress and further limitations. Managing fatigue might include teaching proper sleep hygiene and implementing natural therapies to induce restorative, restful sleep. Some effective tactics are:

Limiting caffeine intake during the day.
Creating a restful, relaxing place to sleep.
Using white noise, such as a sound machine or a fan.

Plan a nutritious diet.

As expected, diet can play a role in the severity of arthritis symptoms, as well as extending range-of-motion and mobility. Eat a diet high in protein, fiber, and nutrients, and avoid salt, sugar, and saturated fats. Maintaining a healthy weight is effective at relieving the discomfort associated with straining arthritic joints with added pounds. Foods that are rich in antioxidants, like dark leafy greens or fish, can help control swelling and inflammation. A nutritious and well-balanced diet is an excellent defense in the battle against arthritis, and nutritionists at living facilities are an invaluable asset to any treatment team.

Offer empathy and autonomy.

Don’t underestimate the importance of empathy and support when dealing with arthritis. Being there to support, yet allowing residents to assert their independence creates a setting conducive to well-being. While staff at assisted living settings keep track of symptoms, medications, pain levels, and side-effects, residents can be involved in their treatment and care, working with professionals to determine what works best for the individual.Does someone in your life suffer with the symptoms of arthritis? Consider reaching out to Senior Living Experts in the Schaumburg area for the support and setting that can improve quality of life for arthritis sufferers. Staff are experienced in addressing the symptoms and repercussions of chronic pain, and create a comfortable, therapeutic space for residents to thrive. Managing pain and increasing mobility are just part of the challenge of living with arthritis; support and independence also play a significant role in overall health and well-being.

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