Hand pain can become a significant issue as the years pass by, making it harder for seniors to complete certain tasks. For instance, the pain can impact their ability to complete daily duties, whether due to arthritis, repetitive strain, or age-related wear and tear. Fortunately, there are effective treatments to relieve hand discomfort and enhance mobility, and for many seniors, having companion care at home services provides the support they need to better deal with this issue.
Gentle Hand Exercises
Regular hand exercises are one of the most effective ways to keep the hands flexible and pain-free. Gentle stretches for the fingers, wrists, and palms can help increase mobility and reduce stiffness. Seniors can practice making a fist, bending the fingers backward, and squeezing a soft ball, all of which are effective everyday exercises for the hand.
Companion care at home providers can remind seniors to do these exercises each day, as well as help them ensure they’re doing the movements correctly so they don’t cause more harm.
Warm Compresses
Applying heat to the hands improves circulation, relaxes muscles, and reduces joint stiffness. A simple warm compress or having seniors put their hands in warm water with Epsom salts might help relieve hand pain, especially in the morning when stiffness is at its peak.
With companion care at home by their side, seniors can make sure the compresses—or water—aren’t too hot so they don’t inadvertently burn themselves.
Adaptable Tools and Devices
Using adaptive tools created for seniors with low hand strength can simplify daily tasks, such as opening jars, using utensils, and writing. Companion care at home providers can help them become familiar with these tools, as well as complete some of the daily tasks that seniors still have difficulty with despite using adaptive tools. The support received also helps reduce frustrations seniors might be feeling.
Topical Pain Relief
There are several topical treatments available, including lotions, gels, and patches, that can be applied directly to the problematic areas of the hand to alleviate inflammation and pain. These over-the-counter treatments frequently contain chemicals that provide short pain relief, such as menthol or capsaicin.
Before using these treatments, seniors should talk with their medical team. Additionally, companion care at home can watch for signs of allergic reactions to keep seniors safe.
Promoting Rest and Proper Hand Posture
For seniors suffering from chronic hand pain, it is important to find a balance between activity and rest. Overuse of the hands can aggravate pain, so taking breaks during repetitive chores and practicing proper hand posture will help reduce strain.
What is proper hand posture? Essentially, seniors should avoid extreme flexing or extending the wrists, which can lead to strain over time. Also, they should keep their hands, fingers, and wrists as relaxed as possible to prevent overuse injuries. Finally, they should let their fingers curve naturally rather than keeping them too rigid or straight.
Companion care at home professionals can help with routine tasks and care to make things easier on aging seniors.
Companion care at home services plays an important role in enhancing the quality of life for seniors who suffer from hand pain by helping them with everyday tasks, reminding them to complete daily hand exercises, and ensuring they remember to give their hands a break. With support, seniors can preserve independence and comfort in their daily tasks, even while dealing with hand pain.
If you or someone you know needs Companion Care at Home in Blaine, MN, contact Adara Home Health. We provide quality and affordable home care services for many fragile or senior members in the communities we serve. Call us at (888) 525-7742 for more information.
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