There are many causes of chronic pain, such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, migraines, and many more. Chronic pain is pain that lasts for a long period of time, months or more. Up to 50 million people in the United States suffer from chronic pain. Unfortunately, regardless of the cause, chronic pain is still largely a mystery for doctors. It’s very hard to control. Research shows that only around 58 percent of people with chronic pain find relief through prescription pain killers. If your aging relative is one of the millions dealing with chronic pain, here are some tips that may help manage the pain.

Continue to Take Medications.

The medications the doctor prescribes for pain can help to reduce inflammation and lessen pain. Forgetting a dose could make pain worse. If your older adult family member has trouble remembering to take their medicines, an elderly care provider can remind them when it is time.

Try Deep Breathing or Meditation.

Many people find relief through deep breathing techniques and meditation. These techniques can help to relax the body, which can reduce pain. Older adults can learn meditation by taking a class. An elderly care provider can drive them to the class. Deep breathing involves sitting comfortably in a quiet space while taking deep, slow breaths.

Manage Weight.

Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce pain because it takes some of the stress off of painful joints. One way to manage weight is through eating a healthy diet. A balanced diet that aims for weight control can also improve overall health. With improved health, the older adult may experience less pain. An elderly care provider can help to prepare healthy, balanced meals that include nutritious fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.

Stay Physically Active.

Exercise can help strengthen muscles and keep joints from getting stiff. It can also help to manage weight. In addition, exercising causes the body to release endorphins, the “feel good” hormone that can make an older adult feel better. An elderly care provider can help your aging relative to be active by walking with them or driving them to exercise classes.

Join a Support Group.

Having chronic pain can take an emotional and mental toll. A support group is a place where the senior can talk about their feelings and lean on others who are going through the same thing. You may be able to find a support group for your aging relative through the local hospital. There are also online support groups, which an elderly care provider could help them to find and sign up for.

The staff at Home Care Matters is available to talk with you and your family about all of your needs. Home Care Matters is a home care agency providing quality and affordable elderly care in Dacula, GA and the surrounding areas. Call (678) 828-2195 for more information.

Sources

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/pain-you-can-get-help

https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/guide/11-tips-for-living-with-chronic-pain#1

https://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/pain-management/chronic-pain/chronic-pain.php

https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/features/causes-pain#1

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Valerie Darling

Founder, Owner at Home Care Matters

Valerie was born in Miami, FL and after a few family moves, grew up locally in the Marietta, GA area.Valerie is the oldest of 4 (3 younger brothers).She is married and has one child.Valerie is the Founder, Owner and CEO of Home Care Matters.Valerie’s mom, Dee, is the inspiration and primary driver as the how and why the business was born.Valerie says, “My mom is never far from our thoughts.Mom was an integral part of developing and starting HCM before she passed away.Our goal is to stay true to her memory and continue to honor her with the love, values, and ethics she taught us.”

Valerie has the unique experience with home care as she has experienced it from both ends of the spectrum, as a caregiver and as needing care herself as a cancer survivor. Valerie says, “Taking care of someone you love is a physically, mentally and demanding labor of love.Taking care of my mom was the hardest thing I have ever done. It has given me an insight and perspective not many people understand unless you are doing it or have done it.I loved taking care of my mom.I love helping others take care of their love ones too.And now that I’ve been sick, it’s given me a whole new level of empathy and understanding for those who are sick and need help.”

Valerie’s schedule varies daily, but she loves visiting with our clients, families, caregivers, our network partners and being in the office.Says Valerie, “Every day is different, but I wake up excited about what we do, inspired by our team, clients and caregivers.I strive to be a resource to the community.I love my team and I love what we do every day. I like to think my mom would be proud.”

You can reach Valerie by email (Valerie@homecarematters.com) or in our office (770.965.4004).

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