As part of the aging process, many people tend to experience chronic pain due to previous injuries, medical conditions, and degenerative diseases. With lifestyle changes, nutrition, and relaxation, seniors can manage chronic pain better and enjoy this chapter of their lives. The key is to find what works best for you.
At Southfield, we understand the impact that chronic pain has on a senior’s life. We do not provide medical care, but we strive to provide residents with programs and services to ensure their health and wellness. If you or someone you love is entering this stage in their life, find out how a residential independent senior living facility may be right for you by calling 855.951.0707.
Meditation and Deep Breathing
The goal of meditation is to promote awareness of mind, body, and spirit. Through meditation, a person can improve their state of mind, promote relaxation, and ultimately reduce pain. The state of mind is directly connected to the body’s perception and pain sensitivity. Improve your state of mind, improve the ability to tolerate and manage pain. With practice, meditation can help the body to utilize its own powerful natural painkilling system.
Pain and tension go hand in hand, affecting the other in a vicious cycle of chronic pain. Through relaxation techniques, seniors can learn to calm their minds and recharge their bodies, breaking the cycle of chronic pain.
Deep breathing helps to reduce muscle tension and, therefore, reduce or eliminate pain. It is a simple exercise that requires nothing more than sitting in a quiet, comfortable place and breathing. Allow your breath to flow freely and deeply, carrying tension away with it by:
Become aware of your breath as you breathe normally through your nose.
Breathe deep into your diaphragm.
Place your hand on your abdomen and feel as it rises and falls.
As you exhale, imagine the tension and pain being carried away.
Imagine peace filling your body as you inhale.
Count ten breaths and rest.
Deep breathing can help alleviate the chronic pain that prohibits you from enjoying your life with practice.
Exercise For Pain Relief
Naturally occurring endorphins can provide a powerful boost to your mental state, helping to encourage relaxation and reduce pain. Although exercise may difficult with pain, it will help reduce stress, promote relaxation, and increase oxygen through the body.
At Southfield, our specialists understand the power of movement and relaxation. We encourage residents to participate in activities to enhance and improve their overall well-being.
Eating A Healthy Diet
Nutrition plays a vital role in the health and wellbeing of older adults. Eating a well-balanced diet is important throughout your life but even more crucial as people age to improve memory, regulate blood sugar levels, reduce the risk of heart disease, and alleviate chronic pain. Since pain is often the result of inflammation, a healthy diet should consist of foods that will reduce inflammation and, therefore, pain, including:
Whole-grain bread
Fresh fruits and vegetables
Lean protein such as fish, poultry, beans, and nuts
Low-fat dairy
Foods high in Vitamins B12, Calcium, and Magnesium
Discover How to Improve Your Health and Wellness at Southfield
Engaging in and maintaining an active, healthy lifestyle is the best way to remain healthy and reduce chronic pain risk. Our experienced staff at Southfield focus on and encourage residents to participate in activities that foster and nurture the whole person, from exercise and nutrition to mindfulness, meditation, and social interaction. If you or a loved one is in or entering this stage of life, reach out to one of the specialists to learn how senior independent living may be right for you by calling 855.951.0707 or completing the online form.
Originally posted: https://www.southfield-senior.com/