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Our team of professional memory care and assisted living care providers here at Gateway Gardens in Winder are there for all of you, young and seasoned alike. Today’s blog offers “food for thought” pertaining to senior knee pain. Knee pain is so very common within the senior community. So, let’s talk about it.

There are a variety of activities that can contribute to knee pain as you get older. A lifetime of sports, injuries, running or arthritis are common culprits. Seniors with knee pain, in particular, know the years of wear and tear can take a toll and make mobility and flexibility more challenging.

Several conditions can also contribute to knee and joint issues for seniors:

• Osteoarthritis


• Injuries


• Excess body weight


• Lack of muscle strength


• Limited flexibility

While many of these ailments are relatively common, there isn’t always an easy solution. If you’re wondering how to take care of your knees as you age, there are ways to work your leg muscles to minimize knee and joint pain without surgery or medication.

It’s always important to meet with your medical provider before starting a new exercise plan, primarily because, in some cases, surgery is an essential option. If your physician clears you for exercise, you can begin working toward healthier habits by using the following tips for how to take care of your knees:

• Strengthen your leg muscles – Focus on exercises that target your hamstrings, quadriceps, hip flexors and gluteal muscles to help strengthen your upper and lower leg.


• Work toward a healthier weight – Losing weight is one of the best ways to mitigate knee pain and help you live an overall healthier lifestyle. Even just a few pounds can make a significant difference.


• Start with low-impact options – When starting an exercise routine as a senior, choose low-impact exercises. Select cardiovascular exercises like swimming or cycling that reduce strain on your knees to prevent any additional damage.


• Aim for 30 minutes of exercise a day – Staying active can help you reduce knee stiffness and help encourage weight loss. Be sure to stretch before any workout to help prevent future injuries.


• Change up your routine – Repetitive movements can put unnecessary pressure on your leg muscles and knee cartilage. When it comes to how to take care of your knees, keep trying new low-impact workouts.

We pride ourselves for being readily available to all of you and to apply our vast array of skill sets to help in any way we can. If you are considering a senior living community for yourself or a loved here in Winder, we invite you to come visit and see the thriving senior assisted living community here at Gateway Gardens in Winder and/or our loving memory care community here in Winder as well!