Chronic pain is, unfortunately, a part of daily life for many older adults. The National Institute of Health (NIH) estimates approximately two-thirds of people over 65 are dealing with chronic pain. Some older adults experience pain from conditions, including arthritis, diabetes, nerve disorders, and cardiovascular diseases. Others struggle with persistent symptoms related to injuries from a fall or accident or from recovery after surgery.

Although common in seniors, chronic pain can disrupt daily life and lead to a decreased ability to sleep, focus, and manage stress. It could contribute to memory problems in some older adults. Chronic pain may also cause older adults to stop engaging in activities they previously enjoyed and become isolated from family, friends, or community.

In-Home Caregivers Can Be a Welcome Relief for Seniors with Chronic Pain

Many seniors with chronic pain have difficulty safely caring for themselves, handling their day-to-day affairs, and properly managing their health. Visiting Angels in-home care workers are available to help your elderly loved one age in place and improve pain management through services including:

• Medication and exercise reminders
  Our in-home caregivers will remind older adults to perform recommended exercises as well as supervise their regimens. Proper pain management also involves carefully following a doctor’s prescription on when and how to take medication. An in-home caregiver will alert an older adult to take their medication and make sure it is done safely.

• Watching for symptoms and side effects
  Sometimes, pain medications can have unexpected side effects. An in-home caregiver can inform your loved one’s care team when this happens, which could make a huge difference in care, comfort, and safety. In-home caregivers will observe worsening symptoms, such as reduced mobility. They’ll also suggest when additional safety measures – such as installing railings to help prevent a fall – could be necessary.

• Emotional support and socialization
  Senior care can offer emotional support your loved one needs on a bad day or just be someone to help pass the time more pleasantly. Home companion services may help your elderly loved one begin socializing again. This could be especially important for older adults with limited mobility or those homebound because of chronic pain.

• Help around the home
  In-home caregivers can assist with a variety of light housekeeping duties, including cleaning and meal preparation. For older adults with more seriously impaired mobility, in-home caregivers can assist with personal care tasks, including transferring, toileting, and dressing.

• Transportation and scheduling assistance
  An in-home caregiver can help your loved one keep track of their appointments and provide transportation to and from the destination. Transportation assistance can include helping your loved one get to the grocery store or going for a walk to a local park they enjoy.

• Respite care for primary caregivers
  Caring for a loved one can be rewarding but also exhausting. In-home caregivers can provide respite care to help primary caregivers take time for themselves. They can also reduce the strain in family relationships.

If your senior loved one struggles with chronic pain and needs help at home, contact your nearest Visiting Angels home care location for assistance. Our coordinators are available to discuss how our compassionate caregivers can make a difference during a free home care consultation.