Many comedians have made many jokes about arthritis over the years. One of the most quoted of these is from a speech by famed comedian Jack Benny, when he said, “I don’t deserve this award… but then again, I have arthritis and I don’t deserve that either.” Mr. Benny may have been kidding, but undoubtedly there were many days he didn’t see his arthritis as a joke. And if you’re someone who suffers from it, you likely don’t either. But arthritis is a natural part of aging, right? Surely, we’ve all known older folks who suffered from arthritis, and we just figured it was something we had to deal with as we aged. Thankfully, this is a myth. Arthritis is not, repeat, not a normal part of aging. Although millions of folks in the U.S. have developed arthritis as they got older, the fact about this condition is that, in many cases, it is preventable.
The Many Faces of Arthritis
Arthritis comes in many forms. In fact, at last count, there were more than 150 different forms of this disease. Some of the more common and well-known forms of arthritis include carpal tunnel syndrome, bursitis, Achilles tendinitis, rheumatoid arthritis, degenerative joint disease, and osteoarthritis. Some of these forms can even attack younger people, even children. However, the incidence of arthritis in the U.S. is increasing, and the biggest reason for this is the fact that baby boomers (Americans born between 1946 and 1964) are moving into the middle and senior years of their lives.
What Causes Arthritis?
So what causes arthritis? The fact is that the exact causes are unknown. However, there are known factors, as well as suspected contributors, to developing arthritis, especially as we age. For example, leading a sedentary lifestyle is considered to be a major risk for developing many forms of arthritis. Surprisingly, another factor can be the foods that you eat. Did you know that it’s possible to develop allergic reactions to certain foods that can worsen the pain of arthritis? The chemicals in some foods are known to interfere with pain receptors, causing or even exacerbating the pain of arthritis, especially in the elderly who can be more susceptible to the effects. Some of these foods include potatoes, tomatoes, and hot peppers. Additionally, the use of tobacco products can be a catalyst in pain exacerbation of arthritis.
Steps to Avoid Arthritis
By the same token, there are steps that can be taken to prevent arthritis for those who are not already sufferers, and even preventive measures that older folks who have arthritis can take to avoid increases in their pain.
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- For Non-Sufferers:
- Incorporate Calcium-Rich Foods: Salmon, dairy (cheese, milk, yogurt), kale, broccoli.
- Essential Nutrients: Vitamins C and E act as antioxidants, counteracting oxidation reactions linked to arthritis. Sources include strawberries, oranges, blueberries (vitamin C), and eggs, wheat germ, avocados (vitamin E).
- Maintain an Active Lifestyle: Include weight-bearing exercises like walking, particularly beneficial for individuals in their 50s, 60s, 70s, and beyond. Consult a healthcare provider before starting an exercise regimen.
- For Arthritis Patients:
- Continue Calcium-Rich Diet: Sustain intake of foods rich in calcium to mitigate arthritis effects.
- Nutrient-Rich Diet: Ensure adequate consumption of vitamins C and E to combat inflammation and oxidative stress.
- Engage in Moderate Exercise: Participate in low-impact activities to manage pain and prevent further deterioration of joints.
- For Non-Sufferers:
Stay Active, Stay Healthy
Naturally, we are all aging every second of our lives. And we’re likely all hoping to live to a ripe old age. But that doesn’t mean that we have to accept arthritis and its accompanying joint pain. There are steps we can take as we age to avoid developing this often painful and even debilitating condition. If you’re someone who’s carrying around extra weight, consider getting on a healthy diet and exercise program to lower your risk of developing arthritis. Eat a healthy, nutritious diet that includes plenty of calcium and antioxidants.
Empowering Support: Home Care Services for Arthritis Management
For those already managing arthritis, specialized home care services can offer invaluable support. From specialized exercise programs to assistance with daily tasks, these services empower individuals to maintain independence and manage their condition effectively. With personalized care plans and compassionate support, home care services play a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for arthritis sufferers, enabling them to live comfortably and confidently in their own homes.
