Lupus is a chronic inflammatory disorder that causes the body’s immune system to attack its own healthy cells and tissues. Even though the majority of people living with lupus are under age 45, a small percentage of adults develop this disease later in life, and seniors often need additional help managing the condition. Here are 4 tips to help you provide high-quality care for an elderly loved one with late-onset lupus.
1. Prevent Osteoporosis
One of the most common side effects of lupus is osteoporosis, and the medications your loved one takes to treat lupus may cause this secondary condition. It’s important to monitor your loved one’s health closely and speak with a doctor to find out if the lupus medications are working or if another form of treatment is necessary. Failing to do so can cause lupus to chip away at the bones even more and block the flow of blood. Your loved one can prevent osteoporosis by exercising, eating a healthy diet, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption.
If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of home care. Orlando Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. From the mentally stimulating activities we provide to our friendly Care Managers who are available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, we offer a wide array of high-quality at-home care services.
2. Relieve Stress
Many seniors living with lupus experience depression because of medications or the emotional stress associated with the disease. Stress can lead to memory-related conditions, mood swings, difficulty concentrating, and confusion. When the stress signals in the body activate, inflammation occurs. To prevent this type of stress, consider hiring a caregiver help your loved one out around the home, and you should also encourage your loved one to engage in activities approved by his or her doctor. Going to a support group for people with lupus may also help your loved one manage stress levels.
Living with unmanaged stress can negatively impact quality of life. Maintaining a high quality of life can be challenging for some seniors, but professional caregivers can help them obtain this goal. Families can trust at-home care experts to help their elderly loved ones focus on lifestyle choices that increase the chances of living a longer and healthier life.
3. Discourage Exposure to Excessive Sunlight
Too much exposure to the sun can exacerbate the symptoms associated with lupus. Lupus causes the skin to become sensitive, and being exposed to the sunlight can lead to skin rashes on the nose, cheeks, and other areas of the body. Overexposure to ultraviolet radiation may also cause joint pain and fatigue. Limiting exposure to the sun can keep skin cells from dying and prevent inflammation. Your loved one should also keep his or her skin covered with light clothing when outdoors.
4. Control Blood Pressure
Having high blood pressure can be extremely dangerous for seniors with lupus. To prevent hypertension, monitor your loved one’s diet and physical activity. Your loved one should also stop smoking. Making healthy lifestyle changes can help your loved one maintain a healthy weight, strengthen the cardiovascular system, and prevent joint or muscle pain and inflammation. The number one cause of death among seniors with lupus is heart disease, which is why you should make sure your loved one’s blood pressure stays under control.
If your elderly loved one is living with a serious medical condition and needs help managing the tasks of daily living, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, an Orlando in-home care agency you can trust. Our caregivers are available 24/7, there are no hidden fees in our contracts, and we guarantee all of our in-home care services. Speak to one of our reliable Care Managers today to find out more about our high-quality home care.
