Dear Donna:
My 82-year old father has arthritis. He’s lived with it for many years. I know he is really suffering from it but I can’t convince him to see the doctor. He says there is no cure for it so it is a waste of time and money. In all honesty, I’m not sure how many years it has been since my dad has even been to the doctor. He is very stubborn!
I saw a commercial on television about arthritis medication so I think there might be options for him. Any suggestions to offer?
Tami in Hudsonville, Michigan
Dear Tami:
It isn’t uncommon for older adults to be resistant to seeing a physician for a variety of reasons. But in this case, seeing a physician experienced at working with older adults who live with arthritis is the best way to relieve the pain it sounds like your father is feeling. While your dad is correct in saying there is no cure for arthritis, there are ways to manage it.
A physician can recommend treatment options ranging from pain relievers and steroids to physical therapy or aquatic therapy. Both of these therapies help strengthen and support the muscles around the damaged joint while improving range of motion. His doctor can also share information on the surprising role diet plays in preventing –or creating—the inflammation that makes the pain of arthritis worse.
The experts from the Arthritis Foundation offer the following advice on when someone with the disease should consult with a physician:
In addition, the experts recommend making an appointment with a doctor if symptoms persist for more than three days or if your father has more than one battle with his arthritis in a month. A gerontologist or a rheumatologist might be the best choice.
We hope sharing this information with your father may help change his mind and convince him to seek medical attention!
Donna
Heritage Senior Communities newest community assisted living community in Holland, Michigan will open its doors to new residents in June.
Caring for a loved one with dementia is often described as a long goodbye. Family…
As people age, balance, muscle strength, and coordination often decline, making seniors more vulnerable to…
Dear Donna: My soon-to-be 88-year-old mother has become too frail to live alone. After treating…
Dear Donna: My dad is 83 years old and in fairly good health for his…
Sundowning is a common and challenging behavior experienced by people with Alzheimer’s disease and other…
Independent living communities have become an increasingly popular option for older adults who want to…