For many seniors, back pain is a constant source of discomfort. If your older loved one experiences chronic back pain, or if he or she has sustained an injury and is on the road to recovery, there are steps you can take to help him or her alleviate the pain. Keep these strategies in mind.
1. Talk to the Doctor about Medication
One of the most effective ways to treat pain is to use pain medications. Both prescription and over-the-counter medications can effectively reduce back pain, but your loved one should talk to the doctor before taking any medication. The doctor can help you choose a medication that provides relief and is safe for your loved one to take.
2. Provide Physical Support
To help your loved one stay comfortable, place pillows or other supportive devices on chairs and other favorite resting places in the home. An adjustable bed is an excellent option if your loved one has chronic back pain because it will allow him or her to easily find a more comfortable sleeping position. You can also install grab bars in the bathroom to help your loved one move more easily when he or she is in pain.
Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality home care. Trust Assisting Hands Home Care to help your senior loved one age in place safely and comfortably.
3. Modify the Home
People who experience back pain often can’t navigate their homes as well as those who don’t. To make living at home more comfortable for your loved one and make it easier for you to provide high-quality care, you can move his or her bedroom to the first floor and keep all of his or her necessary items there as well. Installing a stair lift is an option if your loved one needs to live on the second floor.
4. Share Chores
Your loved one probably wants to help with caring for his or her home, but in some cases, it’s best to leave chores to others. To help your loved one keep the home in order, do any chores that require bending, stooping, or reaching because these types of chores are typically the most painful for those with back pain. You can also hire a caregiver to help your loved one with certain daily tasks.
If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of at-home care. Northern Kentucky Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years.
5. Encourage Physical Activity when Pain Is Less Severe
Seniors often find their pain worsens at specific times of the day, depending on the cause of the pain. For instance, seniors with arthritis may notice the pain is more intense after sitting for a long time. Take advantage of your loved one’s least painful times of day to do chores or run errands together, and allow him or her to rest when needed.
Older adults living with back pain may face difficulties managing daily tasks. Every senior has different needs when aging in place. Some simply need occasional assistance with household chores, while others may be managing serious illnesses and require more extensive around-the-clock home care. Northern Kentucky seniors can count on Assisting Hands Home Care to provide the in-home care they need and deserve. Trust your loved one’s care to the professionals at Assisting Hands Home Care of Northern Kentucky. Reach out to one of our compassionate Care Managers today at (859) 374-7455.
