Walking is one of the best forms of exercise out there. There are no specific skills that need to be learned, no expensive equipment to purchase (except a good pair of shoes), and no membership is needed. It can be done at most places and at all times of the day and it’s an excellent way to stay active and healthy.
Health Benefits of Walking for Arthritis
Besides boosting overall health and mental wellness, walking has some direct health benefits for those who suffer from arthritis.
- Walking can reduce the amount of bone loss due to osteoporosis.
- Walking improves circulation, helping the blood provide much-needed oxygen and nutrients to many areas of the body.
- Walking increases the fluid in the joints as the movement and compression from walking bring oxygen and nutrients to these areas.
- Walking may lead to losing weight. If your loved one is overweight, that extra weight can make her arthritis worse by putting extra pressure on her joints. Even losing a few pounds can provide some relief to overloaded joints that have arthritis.
- Walking increases muscle tone in many parts of the body – from the legs to the torso to the arms. This extra muscle tone increases a person’s range of motion and can provide relief by taking the pressure usually placed on the joints by having the muscles absorb it.
Helpful Tips for Adding More Walking Into Each Day
If your loved one has arthritis of the feet or knees, it doesn’t mean she can’t walk to receive some of the health benefits it provides. You will want to have her develop a good plan with her primary physician to ensure she stays safe and doesn’t injure herself while starting a new walking program.
Here are four easy ways for your loved one to add a little more walking into her day:
- Park a little farther from the door. When parking in a store parking lot, she should avoid those nice, close-to-the-door spots and seek out a parking spot that offers a bit more walking to the door to get in some extra steps.
- Walk to some errands. If the grocery store is just a few blocks away and has a safe walking path, she could walk to the store and make a small purchase to bring home.
- Take the dog out for longer walks. Instead of just bringing the dog to the dog park to run off energy, take him on a leash around the park first so they both get a walk in.
- Walk while she talks. If a guest or arthritis care provider stops over, go for a walk as you catch up on all of the latest news, or bring her phone with her and chat with the grandkids while walking.
Elderly Home Care Providers Can Help with Arthritis Care
If your loved one needs assistance with getting to a place to walk, a senior home care provider can help with arthritis care. Another way they can assist with arthritis care is by joining your loved one on walks or doing something as simple as helping her put her shoes on or button her coat. With the arthritis care provided, your loved one doesn’t have to do it alone and can begin a road to better arthritis care.
