I agree... My dad's rheumatologist said we need to "listen to his body," and not what dose we wish he could be at with the prednisone. It's not worth it to speed the taper if it impacts quality of life.

He's been at 6.25 mg the last two weeks, and he doesn't have symptoms but ESR is slightly elevated. She suggested to drop down to 6 mg, but we're really reluctant because he's only just gotten over a flare. She then said she's more than okay with staying at the current dose for another 2 more weeks so we can feel more certain his pain is stable.

Also agree with @vellen and others who've mentioned walking and gentle stretching. With an inflammatory (unlike "wear and tear" or osteoarthritis), the pain usually gets worse with prolonged rest. My dad had a severe stroke, so we have to help him with his exercises, but we always have to start the day with gentle range of motion exercises and help keep him moving as is possible throughout the day, or the stiffness gets worse.