If you are a family caregiver for one of the more than 50 million adults throughout the United States who are currently living with doctor diagnosed arthritis, you know that this condition is more than just pain and stiffness in the joints. Arthritis causes extensive damage in the joints that leads to loss of range of motion, loss of flexibility, pain, balance problems, diminished control, and more. This can be extremely uncomfortable, but it can also impact functioning and daily life. Seniors who are living with arthritis might find it more difficult to fulfill basic daily tasks, and may even be at greater risk for injury. Making meaningful modifications throughout their home can help your parent to cope with arthritis, stay safer, and maintain more of their independence as they age in place.
Some meaningful modifications you can make throughout your seniors home to help them cope with arthritis include:
- Replace knobs on doors and cabinets with handles. Knobs can be very difficult to grasp, making it harder for your parent to open doors and cabinets. A handle allows your parent to use even a hand that cannot grip effectively to use the handle.
- Replace a conventional toilet with an elevated version. Sitting and standing from a conventional toilet can be very challenging for an elderly adult who is living with arthritis. This can be a painful maneuver, but it can also lead to loss of balance and a fall. An elevated toilet reduces the distance your parent must sit or stand, which puts less strain on the joints.
- Replace a conventional tub and shower with a walk-in version. Climbing over the edge of a tub can be very difficult for a senior who is living with arthritis. A walk-in tub makes it easier to get in, and many allow for full submersion up to the shoulders, as well as jets to provide further comfort.
- Add a chairlift to the stairs. Going up and down stairs can be painful and even dangerous for an elderly adult who has arthritis. A chairlift allows for safe and convenient transport up and down the stairs so your parent is not at risk.
One of the most important things you can do for your aging loved one when you are a family caregiver is to make sure that you stay as healthy as possible. Being at your best is essential for giving your parent the care and support they need, and also for being there for the others who rely on you, such as your children. Integrating home care into your care efforts for your parent is an effective way to ensure you are able to take care of yourself, protect your health and well-being, and give yourself the time and flexibility in your schedule to relieve your stress, manage your needs, and be at your best for all those who rely on you. Whether it is for just a few hours during the week, or every day, the customized schedule of an in-home senior care services provider means your parent will get what they need, when they need it, and when it works best for you.
If you or an aging loved one are considering caregivers in Grand Ledge, MI, please contact the caring staff at Seniors Helping Seniors of Lansing. Call today: 517-332-9953.