Page 37 - Healthcare News July/August 2022

Better Days
How Can Home Care Help Seniors with Chronic Pain?
CBy Visiting Angels
hronic pain is an unfortunate part of daily life for many older adults. The National Insti- tutes of Health (NIH) estimates two-thirds of
people over age 65 are dealing with chronic pain. Some older adults experience pain from conditions like arthritis, diabetes, nerve disorders, and cardio- vascular diseases. Others struggle with persistent symptoms related to injuries from a fall or accident or from recovery after surgery.
Although common in seniors, chronic pain can
disrupt daily life and lead to a decreased ability to sleep, focus, and manage stress. It could contribute to memory problems in some
older adults. Chronic pain may also cause older adults to stop engaging in activities they previously enjoyed and become isolated from family, friends, or community.
In-home caregivers can be a welcome relief
for seniors with chronic pain. Many seniors with chronic pain have difficulty safely caring for themselves, handling their day-to-day affairs, and properly managing their health. In-home care workers, like those at Visiting Angels, are available to help your elderly loved one comfortably age in place through the following:
Medication and exercise reminders. In-home caregivers will remind older adults to perform prescribed exercises as well as supervise their
regimens and alert an older adult to take their medication.
Watching for symptoms and side effects. Pain medications can sometimes have unexpected side effects. An in-home caregiver
can inform your loved one’s care team when this happens, which could make a huge difference
in comfort and safety. In-home caregivers will observe worsening symptoms, such as reduced mobility. They’ll also suggest when additional safety measures — such as installing railings to help prevent a fall — could be necessary.
Emotional support and socialization. Senior care can offer emotional support your loved one needs
on a bad day or just be someone to help pass the time more pleasantly. Home companion services may help your elderly loved one begin socializing again. This could be especially important for older adults with limited mobility or those homebound because of chronic pain.
Help around the home. In-home caregivers can assist with a variety of light housekeeping duties, including cleaning and meal preparation. For older adults with more seriously impaired mobility, in-home caregivers can assist with personal-
care tasks, including transferring, toileting, and dressing.
Transportation and scheduling assistance.
An in-home caregiver can help your loved one keep track of their appointments and provide transportation to and from the destination. Transportation assistance can include helping your loved one get to the grocery store or going for a walk to a local park they enjoy.
Respite care for primary caregivers. Caring for
a loved one can be rewarding but also exhausting. In-home caregivers can provide respite care to help primary caregivers take time for themselves. They can also reduce the strain in family relationships.
If your senior loved one struggles with chronic pain and needs help at home, call Visiting Angels of West Springfield at (413) 733-6900 for support. Coordinators are available to discuss how our caregivers can make a difference during a free home-care consultation. n
“Many seniors with chronic pain have difficulty safely caring for themselves, handling their day-to-day affairs, and properly managing their health.”
America's Choice in Home Care®
Visiting Angels provides essential senior homecare, allowing your loved one to remain where they are the most comfortable...in their own home.
• Shopping
• Light Housekeeping
• Meal Preparation
• Friendly Companionship • Flexible Hourly Care
• Respite Care for Families
VisitingAngels.com/WestSpringfield
Each Visiting Angels agency is independently owned and operated.
®2022 Visiting Angels is a registered trademark of Living Assistance Services, Inc.
• Bathing Assistance
• Dressing Assistance
• Grooming
• Assistance with Walking • Medication Reminders
• Errands
413.733.6900
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