Arthritis and joint stiffness can make it tough for your senior parent to do everyday things like sweep the floor, open a cupboard, or lift a cup. You can make like at home easier and more comfortable for your parent by making sure they have home care.
Home care is a service for seniors that is designed to help them live independently. A home care provider will visit your parent on a set schedule, usually daily, to help them with any tasks that are too hard for them to do.
For seniors that have chronic joint stiffness or arthritis, having someone in the home to help them by keeping the house clean, making them a hot cup of coffee or tea, and helping them get around the house safely can make life at home better.
What Is Home Care?
A home care provider can help your parent with a range of activities of daily living, including things like:
Daily Chores
Arthritis can make simple tasks feel painful or tiring. Even small actions like folding clothes or washing dishes can strain the joints in the hands, knees, or back. A home care provider can step in and take care of these chores so your parent does not have to push through pain.
They can tidy the house, handle laundry, wash dishes, sweep floors, and take out the trash. This support gives your parent more time to rest and prevents flare ups caused by overuse. It also helps keep the home safe and organized, which lowers stress and makes daily life smoother.
Fall Prevention
Arthritis often affects balance and makes movement slow or stiff. This raises the risk of falls. A home care provider can help your parent move around the house safely and help them get in and out of chairs or bed. They can offer a steady arm, help your parent get in and out of chairs, and support them when they use stairs.
A home care provider can also make sure the home is as safe as possible for your parent. This may include removing loose rugs, clearing clutter, securing cords, and making sure every room has good lighting. These steps protect your parent from injuries and help them stay independent.
Preparing Meals
Cooking can be hard for seniors who are living with joint pain and stiffness. Chopping vegetables, lifting pots, or opening jars can cause pain or swelling. A home care provider can prepare meals that are healthy and easy to eat.
A home care provider can also keep the pantry and fridge stocked, make sure there are snacks that your parent can open easily on their own, and reorganize the kitchen so that essentials like silverware or cups are in places where your parent can easily get them without opening drawers or cupboards.
Medication Reminders
Many people with arthritis take medication to manage pain or reduce swelling. Some use heat packs, cold packs, or special creams to stay comfortable. A home care provider can remind your parent when it is time to take their medicine and help them follow the routine the doctor recommended.
They can also help warm up heating pads, apply cold packs safely, or assist with gentle stretches if the doctor approves them. These small actions can bring real relief and help your parent stay on track.
Emotional Support and Daily Encouragement
Living with arthritis can be frustrating. Pain may come and go, and some days feel harder than others. A home care provider can offer steady emotional support. They can listen to your parent’s concerns and give encouragement when tasks feel difficult.