Living with arthritis can make some everyday activities a challenge. Arthritis is a condition in which the joints are inflamed and often in pain, making movement difficult, if not impossible. Because of that, simple daily chores can seem overwhelming, and for the senior who wants to remain independent in their home, they might find themselves struggling to maintain the quality of life that they desire. In-home occupational therapy can be a great resource.
As a caregiver, there are several steps you can take to help your loved one with arthritis continue to live in their home and thrive. Many elderly people may not be comfortable talking about what they are struggling with because they are afraid that if anyone discovers how hard life has become for them at home, they’ll want them to leave their home and live in some type of community living space. You can assure your loved one that finding solutions to the areas they struggle with, such as occupational therapy, will help ensure they can continue to live independently for a long time.
Five Steps To Support Your Loved One’s Independence.
- The first one was already discussed – have an honest conversation about what limitations your loved one’s arthritis has had on them. Is it making it difficult to make meals? Perhaps it’s limiting their abilities to keep up with certain chores. Finding the key struggles can help you both find solutions.
- Look for assistive devices. Luckily, there are plenty of assistive devices out there that can help your loved one manage some daily tasks. There are gadgets to help open jars, zip up zippers, button up shirts, and so much more.
- Make adjustments around the home. Next, it might be time to make some adjustments to your loved one’s home to help them manage their home despite the limitations that arthritis may bring. This could mean adding safety features in the bathroom, such as handrails. It could also mean reorganizing the kitchen cupboards and the pantry to put all heavy items on lower shelves and keep needed items within easy reach.
- Provide assistance with those really tough chores. Your loved one may need help each week preparing meals for the week. Having a friend or family member come over and assist with chopping, lifting, and cleaning can set them up for success all week long. If laundry or taking out the garbage has become too taxing, a weekly visit from a friend or a home care provider can help.
- Look at occupational therapy. Having a trained occupational therapy provider come to the home to help your loved one find solutions could be the best step you take toward helping your loved one stay in their home. Occupational therapy is great for understanding your loved one’s struggles and finding solutions to manage them. With occupational therapy, your loved one may learn new ways to do activities that aren’t as straining, or the therapist can help your loved one find the right assistive devices. Occupational therapy performed in the home creates personalized and functional solutions for your loved one.
So, start that conversation with your elderly loved one today so they can move toward better living at home and enjoy all that independence.
If you or someone you know needs Occupational Therapy 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.