Although exercise might be the last thing most seniors with fibromyalgia want to think about, regular stretching is highly recommended. Starting and sticking to a stretching routine can increase overall mobility and make it possible for your elderly loved one to experience an active and healthy lifestyle for a long time to come. Here are some good stretches for seniors with fibromyalgia.
Classic Toe Touches
Toe touches provide an extended stretch through the hips, back, and legs. This stretch is best carried out in a dynamic form, which means using smooth movements during the stretch rather than the traditional static stretch your loved one might be used to.
Yoga Postures
There are a number of gentle yoga poses designed to stretch and open up the body. Because of its slow, soothing nature, yoga is designed to help seniors stretch every area of the body without taking it too far. Yoga also builds strength, increases endurance, and relieves stress.
Some seniors may require assistance with yoga and other forms of exercise. At-home care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.
Overhead Stretches & Shoulder Stretches
The upper body is often engaged in activities like driving, pushing a shopping cart, and other tasks that can be challenging when neck and shoulder muscles are stiff or pained. These exercises are designed to loosen the upper body and alleviate a great deal of tension, making it easier to perform everyday activities.
Caring for a loved one with fibromyalgia can be overwhelming at times. If you’re the primary caregiver for a senior loved one in Columbia, home care is available when you need time away from your important caregiving duties. At Assisting Hands Home Care, our caregivers are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help your loved one manage everyday tasks in the comfort of home while you have the chance to take a much-needed break.
Hamstring Stretches
The hamstrings are engaged every time your loved one goes up a flight of stairs, stands up from a seated position, or simply walks across the floor. How your loved one’s hamstrings feel can also have a direct impact on how his or her lower back feels. Stretching in the morning can help your loved one loosen his or her muscles and make daily tasks easier. If your loved one works out regularly, make sure he or she stretches afterward, when the muscles are warmed up and more flexible. Don’t forget to check with your loved one’s physician prior to starting any new exercise or stretching program.
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional home care service. Columbia families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place. Rely on the professionals at Assisting Hands Home Care to provide high-quality compassionate care for your loved one. Give us a call today at 443-233-1245 to learn about our flexible in-home care plans.
