arthritis

It can be a never-ending pattern: the recurring discomfort of arthritis intensifies levels of stress and anxiety, which can then actually further aggravate the pain of arthritis. If deliberate steps are not taken to stop the cycle and restore a sense of calm and wellbeing, arthritic symptoms can continue to worsen, along with a variety of additional physical health conditions.

Live Free Home Health Care helps older adults with arthritis, and other conditions of aging, to enhance quality of life through hands-on assistance with care in addition to encouragement to engage in pleasurable activities, including those to help unwind and decrease tension. Some of our favorite ideas include the following:

  • Exercising. There is absolutely nothing better to reduce anxiety than to elevate the heart rate through activity, which produces soothing endorphins. Exercising is also essential for those with arthritis to strengthen muscles and joints, and maintain weight within a healthy range. The physician should be consulted before beginning any exercise routine, but with his/her approval, effective options to try can include yoga, swimming, Tai Chi, dancing, or riding a stationary bike, just to name a few.
  • Breathing. Basic deep breathing techniques can work wonders in enabling us to relax, and are particularly advantageous after exercising. Take several minutes to sit in a comfortable chair, close your eyes, breathe in to the count of five, breathe out to the count of five, and repeat.
  • Sharing. Talking with a trustworthy counselor, clergy member, friend/family member, or one of Live Free’s professional caregivers is a wonderful way to let go of anxious thoughts in a safe environment. Or if discussing personal issues is difficult, writing in a journal or diary can be helpful as well. Instead of seeking a solution, the goal should be to simply be heard and understood.

Live Free Home Health Care of New Hampshire is available to help older adults decrease stress and anxiety, better manage chronic conditions like arthritis, and enjoy a better quality of life. Sometimes just having a friendly companion by your side makes all the difference between a so-so day and a great day.

Our trained, experienced care providers love spending time with older adults, whether that includes playing a favorite card game, going for a walk around the neighborhood, looking through pictures and reminiscing, or supplying escorted transportation to take part in enjoyable activities in the community. We help make life more comfortable as well, through personal care services, light housekeeping and laundry, meal preparation, and more.

Contact us at your convenience at 603-217-0149 or fill out our online contact form to learn more.