April is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) month, a month dedicated to bringing awareness to a challenging condition. IBS is a disorder affecting the large intestine. People with IBS experience symptoms like pain in the abdomen, cramps, gas, diarrhea, constipation, and bloating. There is no cure for IBS, but it can be managed using lifestyle changes. Some people may also require medications and counseling. Knowing some tips for managing IBS can help you to assist your aging relative with IBS to cope with the difficult condition.
Recognizing IBS Triggers
Knowing what triggers IBS symptoms in the older adult can help you to avoid them. Try keeping a journal of their IBS symptoms. Include what they did that day, how they were feeling, and what they ate. Share the journal with the senior’s doctor so that he or she can help you to determine what the triggers are. Once you know the triggers, make sure all family caregivers and senior care providers are aware of them, so they can also help to avoid them.
Minimize Stress
Stress can make the symptoms of IBS worse. Unfortunately, the uncomfortable and sometimes symptoms of IBS can be embarrassing themselves. Seniors can try some stress reduction techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation. If their symptoms cause undue stress, it may also be a good idea for them to see a counselor. Having a senior care provider can help lower stress levels. Older adults who know they have someone to rely on for help may feel more secure and experience less stress.
Don’t let IBS keep them in the house
For people with IBS, it can be tempting to just stay at home where they know where the bathroom is and don’t have to worry about public embarrassment. However, being housebound can lead to social isolation and depression. Family caregivers and senior care providers can make going out easier by doing a little research before an outing. Find out where the bathrooms are and plan to sit near them. Also, if the senior is going to a restaurant, call ahead to inquire about the menu or look it up online. Help the older adult to find menu items that won’t trigger symptoms.
Keep Moving
Exercise can help regulate bowel habits. Also, when people exercise, they sometimes eat better. Exercise can also reduce stress. Some good options for older adults to try are walking, yoga, and Tai Chi. All of these are low-impact exercises that won’t place excess stress on aging joints. A senior care provider can encourage more physical activity by going for walks with the older adult.
For more information about hiring Elder Care in La Costa CA, call the friendly caregivers at La Jolla Nurses Homecare who can help your aging parents remain in their own homes, at 858-454-9339. We are a home care agency providing quality and affordable senior care in La Jolla, CA, and the surrounding communities.
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