Wednesday, December 28, 2016

5 Natural Home Remedies for Aches and Pains of Aging



Natural treatments for pain relief have been used for centuries, and many older adults find them quite effective. At Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of in-home care in Prescott, our staff is always searching for information on senior care you and your loved one may find useful. We have put together this list of remedies that can help your loved one treat aches and pains naturally. Consult with a doctor before you encourage your loved one to try any of these remedies.

1. Epsom Salt

Epsom salt baths are an extremely common treatment option for pain and inflammation because the body quickly absorbs this type of salt through the skin. They are an excellent option for chronic pain in the lower back and joints. Your loved one should add two cups of salt to his or her bath and soak for at least 20 minutes to benefit from its pain-relieving qualities.

2. Menthol Cream

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, headaches are the most common type of pain in adults over age 40. If the pain comes on suddenly and is focused on the temples or forehead, it might be a stress headache. Applying a small amount of menthol cream to the temples and back of the neck can stimulate the body’s production of pain-fighting chemicals.

3. Turmeric

Turmeric is a popular spice used to give curry its unique color, but it is also an excellent painkiller. Within moments of being taken, a compound in turmeric known as curcumin will begin to attack the enzymes causing the inflammation. Turmeric can be taken as a daily supplement to treat chronic pain from arthritis and other joint conditions.

4. Willow Bark

Different cultures have used willow bark to treat pain for hundreds of years. When taken as a tea or pill, your loved one can get a full dose of a chemical known as salicin. This chemical is almost identical to the active painkilling ingredient in aspirin.

5. Glucosamine and Chondroitin

A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found these two compounds reduced joint pain in over 53 percent of the test subjects. Glucosamine and chondroitin are excellent options for seniors with pain due to osteoarthritis. Seniors who have diabetes should speak with a doctor about these supplements because they can interfere with blood sugar levels.
Natural remedies are a good option for pain relief because they tend to be easily available and usually have few side effects. If your loved one regularly experiences aches and pains and requires support to manage daily tasks, consider hiring an hourly or live-in caregiver Prescott seniors and their families can rely on. A trained and compassionate caregiver from Home Care Assistance can assist your loved one with daily tasks, including meal prep, light housekeeping, transportation, and grooming. For more information on our senior care services, call 928-771-0105 and speak with one of our Care Managers.

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