Preparing to Age in Place

there is nothing more healing than a caring human helping hand.

What has helped with the pain? I have arthritis, a couple of kinds, neuropathy as well as hammertoes. Balance is a huge issue. Been through PT more times than I can remember. Spent a few years, heavily dosed with two types of oxy,
No narcotics; I refuse. Were always looking for the key. What have you done?✅
What helped yours?

There are several things my deceased husband and I have done right. Most of them we already know but may neglect to do.
We updated our will. We had talked about it, were confident with our decisions, and it certainly made my difficult enough life easier after his death a year and a half ago.
Also, we had already downsized, had our bedroom downstairs, remodeled to get a shower instead of the old bathtub, and had gotten rid of a lot of “stuff”.
I’m trying to continue to become more of a minimalist, but am not as organized as I like, have gotten a bit lazy, lol.
I also do what I can to take care of myself what health is concerned, do water aerobics and love to walk also, am trying to eat healthy and stay socially active, etc., etc.
It is easier to let things slide, my excuse is my age, am 84, so sometimes I have to make myself do what I know I should, like going to the doctor.
I have fallen several times now, am grateful that the damage was minor, started to add a thirty minute posture and balance class, had some ear problems, and I have a Dr. appointment next Monday!!
Enough for tonight……
Am grateful, giving thanks for God’s many blessings.

I put bars up in our shower to help my husband who is dealing with tons of isuues. Took everything out of his way that could cause a fall. Including rugs. He has a walker. I give him protein drinks to improve bone strength. He has a chair that stands up and a bed that is lower for him to get in and out of. If more things should come come up. I will do my best to make it safe for him. I hope that helps !

I am new to this and cortisone shots are recommended. I am on a walker and have read that having osteoarthritis could lead to a wheelchair. in the beginning I was prescribed steroids which worked so maybe just maybe the shots will work for me. I have severe hip arthritis.

any chance of reversal? I like the protein drink idea didn't think of that.
I have osteoarthritis and could end up in a wheelchair.
I need bars around the bathtub soon. I have dizziness and really need the walker when I stand up.

I also suggest a shower chair. I know my husband could fall even with all of our changes.But I will do everything and anything to keep him safe! He also uses a walker. I could not get across to the DME company that a rollator would not work. His brain tells him to one thing and it does not always work. Instead of the golf balls... I put skis on them .I tell him it looks like he vacumed the carpet. He grins and it is so funny..

thank you for sharing this information. I was not prepared for old age and being unable to walk without a walker at 76. they are wanting to administer cortisone shots. I have osteoarthritis which can lead unfortunately to a wheelchair.

I can only say that I have 3 people in my life who have Parkinson's and other things. My Dad, my brother and my spouse. It is very hard to go through this ..but I am strong and actually I am a fighter for my spouse. I have always thought what will happen if I should get sick or worse. Prayer helps me and an occasional cry. Of course by myself. I wish you the best.

I sincerely ask that God blesses your family and loved ones and you.