Arthritis management in older adults

If you or a loved one have pain in the knees, hips, hands or feet, it may be caused by a form of arthritis. Arthritis is a condition that causes swelling and joint tenderness. Over time, these symptoms can make it difficult to perform daily activities.

What is arthritis and how does it affect older adults?

Arthritis is a common condition, especially in older adults. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, arthritis affects 1 in 5 adults in the United States. Older adults are more likely to experience symptoms that significantly impact their quality of life.

Jessica Kuhn, a physical therapist and director of therapy at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Sewickley, emphasizes the importance of education and proactive care. With community educational resources and management strategies, individuals can manage arthritis symptoms and regain independence.

How does arthritis develop in the joints?

Arthritis symptoms often develop gradually, though they can sometimes appear suddenly. The condition starts when joint tissue becomes inflamed or damaged.

Common causes include:

• Overexertion
• Autoimmune reactions
• Breakdown of cartilage

For many older adults, arthritis results from wear and tear over time. Previous joint injuries can also accelerate this process, and the cartilage may gradually deteriorate. As this protective cushioning diminishes, bones can begin to rub against one another, causing friction, joint damage and chronic pain.

Understanding how arthritis develops can help you recognize symptoms early and seek care sooner.

Common types of arthritis in older adults

There are several types of arthritis, and each requires a unique approach to management and treatment.

Kuhn said osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are among the most common forms. Pain is often the primary concern, prompting individuals to seek orthopedic rehabilitation.

• Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis and gradually develops as people age. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones wears down over time. It typically affects the hands, knees, hips and spine.
• Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic autoimmune disease that may cause pain, swelling and irritation in the joints. It often affects joints symmetrically, meaning both sides of the body are impacted.
• Psoriatic arthritis is a form of inflammatory arthritis that affects some individuals who have psoriasis, a condition that causes red patches on the skin. Most individuals develop psoriasis first and are later diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis. However, joint problems can occasionally begin before skin lesions appear.
• Gout is a painful type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid. It often causes sudden episodes of swelling, redness and severe joint pain, often in the feet.

Arthritis management in older adults: Daily strategies

Arthritis is a chronic condition, but joint-friendly lifestyle changes can improve day-to-day comfort and mobility.

Kuhn said simple, practical adjustments go a long way in managing arthritis in older adults.

“At Encompass Health, we treat the older adult population, and sometimes it's as simple as knee support,” she said. “Braces with compression can help provide stability. Teaching positional changes and proper movement, along with lumbar support in chairs, can improve comfort and alignment.”

Finding effective ways to manage arthritis is essential. Chronic joint conditions require consistent care, small, but joint-friendly changes can have a positive impact on your comfort and independence.

The role of physical therapy for arthritis management

When joints hurt, your instinct may be to limit movement. However, inactivity can cause stiffness and muscle weakness, worsening pain over time.

“Low-impact physical activity is one of the most effective ways to maintain joint function,” Kuhn said. “Activities such as swimming, water aerobics, stationary cycling or gentle walking help keep joints moving without placing excess stress on them.”

Working with a physical therapist can help individuals learn targeted exercises and safe movement patterns that reduce strain and improve mobility. A customized exercise program can:

• Strengthen muscles around joints
• Provide better support
• Reduce the burden on the joints

“Arthritis is painful, and it can lead to immobility and weight gain,” Kuhn said. “Do your best to stay active with family members. When you feel like you can't move, stop and rest. Walking is a great form of exercise, though it can be challenging when you're experiencing pain.”

Diet and nutrition for joint health

Thoughtful food choices can help manage inflammation and support overall joint health.

Foods to include:

• Fatty fish such as salmon
• Walnuts
• Flaxseeds
• Berries
• Leafy greens such as spinach and kale
• Other antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables

Foods to limit or avoid:

• Highly processed foods
• Refined sugars
• Red meat
• Alcohol

For individuals with gout, limiting foods high in purines — such as red meat and certain seafoods — may help reduce symptoms.

How to manage arthritis flare-ups

Arthritis symptoms can vary day by day. Periods of increased symptoms are known as flare-ups and can be triggered by stress, overexertion or dietary changes.

“To manage flare-ups, alternating between heat and cold therapy offers pain-relieving benefits,” Kuhn said. “Applying a warm compress can relax tense muscles and improve blood flow to stiff joints, especially in the mornings.”

Balance gentle activity with rest to keep flare-ups at bay and conserve energy.

Benefits of inpatient rehabilitation

For some individuals, arthritis symptoms become more severe, especially when recovering from an illness, injury or surgery. In these cases, inpatient rehabilitation can provide a higher level of support. Inpatient rehabilitation programs offer a structured environment where patients receive daily therapy focused on improving mobility, strength and independence.

A multidisciplinary care team — including physicians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, dietitians and case managers — work together to create personalized treatment plans. These plans often include pain management techniques, adaptive equipment, training and education on joint protection.