Most Common Forms of Arthritis in the Elderly
Unfortunately, there are many elderly citizens that develop arthritis. Many family caregivers don’t realize there are more than one type of arthritis. This can change the severity of the condition your loved one has. It can be helpful to better understand the different types of arthritis, so you can better help your loved one with their condition.

Home Health Care Los Angeles CA – Most Common Forms of Arthritis in the Elderly
Osteoarthritis
One of the most common types of arthritis in the elderly is osteoarthritis. This generally affects bigger bones that are weight-bearing. The hips and knees are commonly affected. However, osteoarthritis can also be located in the lower back, neck, and hands. This type of arthritis will cause the cartilage to break down. The bones will then rub together. Osteoarthritis can lead to issues with sleeping, stooping, walking, and bending. It can be caused due to genetics. However, it is usually caused by getting older. Most people who get osteoarthritis will become disabled from it at some point. When that happens, your loved one may need home health care providers to come help care for them.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
This type of arthritis is known as one of the autoimmune illnesses. The body will attack the joint’s lining. This leads to inflammation in those joints. Rheumatoid arthritis can lead to stiffness, pain, and swelling of the joints. It can affect people in any age group, especially when it comes to women. In addition, this type of arthritis may affect any joints throughout the body. It can even attack the lungs and heart. Those with rheumatoid arthritis may develop malaise and fever. Your loved one may need some help caring for themselves and their daily living activities if they have rheumatoid arthritis, as well.
Gout
One of the most severe types of arthritis is gout. This happens when there are uric acid crystals that occur in the spaces of the joints. Big toes are the most commonly affected. However, gout can also occur in the wrists, elbows, and knees. Gout usually happens like an allergic reaction does. The person with gout may experience stiffness, redness, pain, and swelling. There are some medications that can make this condition worse. Being overweight and drinking alcohol can make it worse, too.
These are some of the most common types of arthritis. If your loved one has arthritis, make sure to ask their doctor which kind they have. This will help you to know how severe their condition is. It is also going to help you to know how you can best be of assistance to them. You might need to hire home health care providers to come assist in taking care of them, especially if they are having a tough time moving around.
Take action today if your loved one has arthritis. Do everything you can to help them be in less discomfort and pain.
Source: https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/types.html
If you or an aging loved-one are considering Home Health Care Services in Los Angeles CA, please contact the caring staff at Assisting Hearts Home Care today. Proudly Serving the Los Angeles & Ventura County. Call us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week! (805) 371-0033, (818) 593-0094, (310) 230-5601.
- Three Tips To Reduce the Risk of Diabetes - November 1, 2022
- Help Your Senior Get Active - October 17, 2022
- 24-Hour Home Care from Assisting Hearts Home Care for Over Fifteen Years - October 7, 2022