With aging of the population, the number of older adults evaluated in rheumatology clinics is expected to increase dramatically in Canada and the rest of the world. Age is a primary risk factor for most types of arthritis, and increases as you get older. For example, as the population ages, osteoarthritis (OA) becomes more common. Your weight is the biggest modifiable risk factor for developing OA as excess weight places additional stress on weight-bearing joints in your hip and knee.
Researchers have also identified numerous contributing factors for “elderly onset” of inflammatory arthritis, including smoking, periodontitis, and viral infections. There may also be an association with menopause and hormonal changes.
Older arthritis patients are at higher risk than younger patients for falls and decline in the ability to perform daily physical activities such as holding a cup, lifting a grocery bag, or walking to a car. This emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and treatment for older arthritis patients to prevent these complications.
Exercise as medicine
Arthritis aches and pains are not a normal part of aging. Physical activity can reduce pain and improve function by helping to lubricate joints and strengthen supporting structures such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments to help better distribute load. Regular movement has also been shown to boost mood and regulate inflammatory responses. Best part of all, physical activity does not need to be structured. Consider morning stretches in bed, a walking coffee date with a friend, dancing while you cook, cleaning or gardening.
Whenever starting something new, remember to give your body time to adjust. Consult your physician before starting an exercise plan. And remember: “slow and steady” and “consistency is key”.
Muscle weakness and loss of muscle size occur as people age and are common in individuals with arthritis. Exercise, particularly strength training, can help improve muscle strength, endurance, and power. Muscle power refers to how fast the muscle contracts and is key to maintaining balance and preventing falls. Strong muscles provide better support to the joints, reducing the stress on them and improving overall joint stability. Researchers have found that a progressive strength training program significantly improved muscle strength, physical function, and quality of life in individuals with arthritis.
To learn more about the benefits of exercise and what types of exercises may be appropriate for you, take Arthritis Consumer Experts’ free JointHealthTM Education course on Arthritis and Exercise here.
To find more resources about Fall Prevention, please visit Fall Prevention Month’s website here.