The residents at The Gardens Senior Living in Statesboro recently recognized World Arthritis Day with a useful educational session. This special day is observed annually on October 12 and is dedicated to raising awareness about arthritis, a chronic condition, and its impact on millions.
Cindy Carter is the Activity Coordinator at The Gardens, and her aim for this year's World Arthritis Day was to provide their residents with practical tools and knowledge to manage their condition.
“The goal is to provide our residents with exercises and suggestions for relief of aches and pains in their joints,” Carter said. "Our residents seemed to be interested in incorporating arthritis exercises into their existing exercise routines, which already happen two times a week.”
Carter reached out to Gracen R. Hitchens, MHS,OTR/L, an occupational therapist from The Therapy SPOT in Statesboro, to lead a special session. Hitchens’ expertise would help the residents navigate the complexities of living with arthritis, which affects so many seniors.
Over 50% of adults 65+ have arthritis, and one in five seniors report arthritis causes activity limitations. It can really affect quality of life! Hitchens began by explaining that arthritis refers to the inflammation of joints, which can lead to stiffness, swelling, and pain. She noted that osteoarthritis, the most common form resulting from wear and tear on the joints over time, can significantly hinder daily activities and reduce independence.
Hitchens said, “Living with arthritis can make it feel almost impossible to complete simple tasks with ease and independence. Therefore it is essential to take both preventative and compensatory measures to help manage and reduce symptoms.”
Hitchens emphasized and highlighted proactive measures the seniors can take.
Tips to Battle Arthritis
- Gentle Exercise/Movement: Daily routines to improve flexibility and strength
- Chair Sit to Stands: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eutszbtbJM8
- Seated Knee Extension: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VuJZ6dqMf8M
- Adaptive Tools for Daily Tasks: Opening jars, gripping utensils, foam tubing for writing instruments, compression gloves, etc. -- use devices that ‘do the work for you!’
- Adaptive grip aids like arthritis friendly jar openers, feeding or writing utensils with built-up handles, etc. can be purchased easily on Amazon.
- Nutrition: Anti-inflammatory foods can be eaten to avoid increased inflammation (Fatty fish, high in Omega-3, like salmon, mackerel, tuna; fruit, vegetables, nuts, olive oil, and low fat dairy)
- AVOID foods that increase inflammation including processed food high in sugar, red meats, and gluten.
- See more: https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/foods-that-fight-inflammation
Symptom Relief Strategies:
- Apply warm water, heat to stiff areas or use cold packs
- Apply topical gels or creams for pain relief
Carter and Hitchens reinforced the message that arthritis is a chronic condition, BUT "it does not need to define one's quality of life."
Carter concluded, “Exercise suggestions will be easy and simple enough to include in each resident's daily routine at The Gardens. We hope to continue to educate our staff and residents about the physical challenges, including arthritis, that many elderly face and have ideas and suggestions on hand to help prevent and alleviate their pain.”
Arthritis Champions, take control of your joints, take back your life, and enjoy your next Senior Moment!
The Gardens Senior Living invites volunteers to come lead or assist in daily activities for residents. If you'd like to help out on any day, the opportunities are endless! For more information, contact Jordan Sears or Cindy Carter at 912-681-1923.
The Gardens Senior Living and Memory Care is located at 625 Gentilly Road, Statesboro GA.