How to Manage Chronic Pain | Senior Living Center Tips For Pain
Chronic pain is a common condition among senior adults. According to a study funded by the National Institute of Health, 53% of seniors over the age of 65 are suffered chronic pain. Learning about ways to help ease the pain while living in a senior living center is important.
Chronic pain in seniors can affect mobility, and increase the risk of falls and anxiety if left untreated. Finding a suitable and effective treatment plan is the best form of action when dealing with chronic pain. Of course, consult your doctor before starting any new treatment plan.
Ways to Dealing with Chronic Pain
Seek Emotional Support
Make sure to communicate with your loved ones and senior care center caregivers regularly. Openly discussing how you are feeling is a great step to help the emotional side of chronic pain. Never hesitate to ask for help when feeling overwhelmed.
Take advantage of your facility’s support group and any virtual communities. There, you can seek guidance and information on how to manage the pain while discussing how you feel.
Get Active
While it can be difficult to stay active, it can provide numerous benefits. Being active can boost your quality of life. Doing low-impact exercises, chair-based routines with handheld weights, or water-based exercises can help reduce stress. In addition, staying active raises energy levels and serotonin.
Take Proper Medication
Living in a senior living center and dealing with chronic pain may be difficult for a senior adult. Fortunately, there are ample medications available to choose from. However, it is best to consult with your primary care provider to know the alternatives to drugs that have known risks and side effects.
Hot/Cold Therapy
Some seniors experiencing chronic pain may try the benefits of hot and/or cold treatment. This option is not only cheap but is said to be beneficial in managing chronic pain. Cold treatment reduces inflammation while hot treatment boosts circulation while stimulating the body’s natural healing process.
Reduce Stress
Stress is said to intensify the pain associated with chronic pain.
Turn to family or friends in the senior living center you are in and express personal feelings about your situation. You may also want to try soothing techniques like listening to relaxing music, get crafty, yoga, or Pilates.
Creating an effective treatment plan can do wonders for those living with chronic pain. Comfortable living and happiness are possible. Reducing stress, staying active, and remaining social are excellent ways to keep up a healthy lifestyle.
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Oxbow Living offers Assisted Living & Memory Care out of Nebraska and to the Surrounding Cities: Ashland, South Bend, Greenwood, Murdock, Elmwood, Ithaca, Mead