Arthritis is a disease that commonly affects many seniors. As it causes joint pain, seniors diagnosed with this disease often suffer from mobility problems that further affect their ability to live independently. As a provider of home care in Southern California, we want to help as many seniors keep their independence as they continue to live comfortably in their homes.
To lower our risk of arthritis, we must understand the different risk factors of arthritis. Non-modifiable risk factors pertain to age and genetics. While modifiable risk factors refer to lifestyle choices. The latter are risk factors that we can manage or control. As a trusted provider of senior care, we recommend the following lifestyle practices that will help lower the risk of arthritis:
- Control your weight
Being overweight puts too much stress on our joints, like the hips and knees. This condition is why people who are overweight are more likely to get knee osteoarthritis and require mobility and ambulation assistance. - Keep your joints healthy
Protecting our joints from injury is also a must. Incurring joint injuries can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis in that particular joint. While it is important to exercise our joints, we must remember not to strain them. A reliable caregiver can assist a senior as they do daily gentle exercises. - Quit smoking
Smoking increases the risk of rheumatoid arthritis as it causes stress on connective tissues. It can also cause breathing problems that make being physically active harder.
Angels Home Care Providers offers home health care in California to help seniors maintain good health and lower the risk of potential health problems. We also assist seniors in their daily living, so they can live independently in the comfort of their homes.