The nervous system consists of two main parts, the central nervous system and the peripheral nerves. The central nervous system is made up of the brain and spinal cord. The peripheral nerves branch out from the central nervous system and carry impulses to and from the rest of the body. Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that occurs when the peripheral nerves are damaged. It causes pain, numbness, and weakness in the extremities. Living with the condition can be painful and difficult, but there are ways to manage the symptoms at home. Below are several things that can be done to help older adults with peripheral neuropathy to reduce symptoms.
Practice Proper Foot Care
Because numbness in the feet can lead to sores and blisters going unnoticed, it’s extremely important to take care of the older adult’s feet. Sores and blisters can result in serious infections, possibly even the loss of a limb. Feet should be examined daily so that injuries can be treated. The senior should also wash and dry their feet daily. Wearing soft socks and padded shoes can also help.
Elder care providers can assist with daily foot care, which can be difficult for seniors who have difficulty bending.
Remain Physically Active
Although peripheral neuropathy can make seniors want to avoid exercise, it’s important that they continue to be as physically active as possible. Regular exercise helps with circulation and may reduce pain.
Elder care providers can go for walks with your aging relative, allowing them to get in some physical activity without the fear of falling.
Follow a Healthy Diet
Good nutrition will improve overall health, making sure the body gets all the nutrients it needs. A healthy diet is one that includes a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. If you have questions about what your family member should eat, a doctor may be able to refer you to a dietician for help.
Elder care can assist with preparing healthy meals that follow the doctor’s or dietician’s guidelines. In fact, an elder care provider can even drive the senior to the grocery store and help them to shop.
Enjoy a Massage
Massage helps to improve circulation. It also stimulates the nerves and can reduce pain. Elder care providers can gently rub the senior’s hands and feet.
Quit Smoking
Smoking further impedes circulation. It also makes foot complications more likely and increases the chances of the person undergoing an amputation.
An elder care provider can help to encourage your aging relative to quit smoking. They can remind them to use smoking cessation techniques recommended by the doctor and distract them when they feel the urge to smoke.
IF YOU OR AN AGING LOVED ONE ARE CONSIDERING ELDER CARE IN OAK PARK, IL, PLEASE CONTACT THE CARING STAFF AT BRIGHTSTAR CARE LA GRANGE. CALL TODAY: 708-551-2500.
Practice Proper Foot Care
Because numbness in the feet can lead to sores and blisters going unnoticed, it’s extremely important to take care of the older adult’s feet. Sores and blisters can result in serious infections, possibly even the loss of a limb. Feet should be examined daily so that injuries can be treated. The senior should also wash and dry their feet daily. Wearing soft socks and padded shoes can also help.
Elder care providers can assist with daily foot care, which can be difficult for seniors who have difficulty bending.
Remain Physically Active
Although peripheral neuropathy can make seniors want to avoid exercise, it’s important that they continue to be as physically active as possible. Regular exercise helps with circulation and may reduce pain.
Elder care providers can go for walks with your aging relative, allowing them to get in some physical activity without the fear of falling.
Follow a Healthy Diet
Good nutrition will improve overall health, making sure the body gets all the nutrients it needs. A healthy diet is one that includes a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. If you have questions about what your family member should eat, a doctor may be able to refer you to a dietician for help.
Elder care can assist with preparing healthy meals that follow the doctor’s or dietician’s guidelines. In fact, an elder care provider can even drive the senior to the grocery store and help them to shop.
Enjoy a Massage
Massage helps to improve circulation. It also stimulates the nerves and can reduce pain. Elder care providers can gently rub the senior’s hands and feet.
Quit Smoking
Smoking further impedes circulation. It also makes foot complications more likely and increases the chances of the person undergoing an amputation.
An elder care provider can help to encourage your aging relative to quit smoking. They can remind them to use smoking cessation techniques recommended by the doctor and distract them when they feel the urge to smoke.
IF YOU OR AN AGING LOVED ONE ARE CONSIDERING ELDER CARE IN OAK PARK, IL, PLEASE CONTACT THE CARING STAFF AT BRIGHTSTAR CARE LA GRANGE. CALL TODAY: 708-551-2500.