May is National Arthritis Awareness Month—time to shine a light on this debilitating condition and give those suffering the hope and help they need to enjoy their lives to the best of their abilities–with or without in home care.
The pain and inflammation of arthritis can prevent individuals from performing everyday tasks like tying their shoes, opening pill bottles, or climbing stairs without assistance. But that doesn’t mean aging individuals have to give in to this disease. There are things you can do to help them cope with their arthritis and live comfortably in their own homes.
Arthritis is the #1 Cause of Disability
Chances are you know someone affected by arthritis. Nearly 1 in every 5 adults suffers from some sort of arthritis. That’s over 50 million people in this country alone. Arthritis can be much more than a painful nuisance—it’s the #1 cause of physical disability in The United States!
Painful joint inflammation can keep individuals from engaging in activities they enjoy. It can limit mobility and even leave individuals homebound. In severe cases the damage can be so bad that surgery is needed to repair or even replace joints.
Arthritis is a Growing Problem
There are over 100 different types of arthritis. The most common are:
Osteoarthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis
Arthritis even encompasses conditions you don’t associate with the disease including gout and fibromyalgia.
Experts say that the number of people living with arthritis will spike to 67 million in the next 15 years (a 34% increase)! That means despite advances in education and treatment it will continue to be a problem for aging individuals well into the foreseeable future.
Are you prepared?
Find Help for Those living with Arthritis
Your Doctor
Of course the first (and usually best) resource is your family doctor. They can help explain what arthritis is, offer effective treatments for certain types of arthritis, and refer patients to specialists.
The National Arthritis Foundation
The National Arthritis Foundation is a national organization that not only educates individuals it also reaches out to lawmakers, raises funds for research, and has created a community of support with resources any arthritis patient or their family caregivers can take full advantage of. Their website is one of the best places to learn about arthritis and living comfortably after a diagnosis.
In Home Care
Family caregivers or in home care professionals can offer hygiene and mobility assistance, run errands and drive individuals to doctor’s appointments, assist with meal preparation, provide companionship for individuals who aren’t ready for assisted living facilities, and so much more.
Combine these resources to greatly increase a person’s quality of life, lift their mood, and make them feel better (and safer) about staying in their own homes.
Considering In Home Care? Schedule a Consultation Today
We know you can’t always be where you want to be. You have a busy life, a career, a family to take care of . . . so let us help. Contact Second Family Home Care to schedule your in home care consultation. Learn what our caring professionals can do for you and those you love. Call 972-347-0700 today.
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