Rehabilitation For Seniors Suffering From Arthritis

Arthritis affects health and quality of life for one in five adults, according to the Arthritis Foundation. One-third of the 50 million Americans with arthritis — about 16.7 million people — are over the age of 65.

Skilled nursing and rehab facilities should be well equipped to provide robust post-acute rehabilitation to seniors who suffer from arthritis. In fact, skilled nursing facilities  that are aware of the extent to which arthritis affects older adults, will offer exercise, nutrition and other wellness programs specifically designed to maximize overall health and alleviate joint and muscle pain in arthritis sufferers, irrespective of their admitting diagnosis and/or their primary rehab requirements.

Though arthritis is not simply a disease of old age — two-thirds of sufferers are under 65, including 300,000 children — we commonly associate it with getting older. Indeed, the most prevalent form of arthritis, osteoarthritis, is more likely to occur as we age, though genetics, injury and weight also play a role. The joint pain and stiffness of osteoarthritis result from a breakdown of cartilage, causing the bones in the joint to rub together. Arthritis sufferers often experience a deterioration in coordination and posture, and may have trouble climbing stairs,  sleeping or walking.

Here is an excellent resource for comprehensive arthritis information.

Contact Ditmas Park Rehab Center for information on our sub-acute rehab programs and our skilled nursing care.