Senior Housing | Richmont Senior Living

Lupus Alert Day is a day designated to raise awareness about lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect various parts of the body. Living with lupus can be challenging, especially for seniors who reside in senior housing.

In this context, seniors with lupus may face unique challenges related to their health, mobility, and social support. Here are some facts about this condition to shed light on the experiences of seniors living with lupus in senior housing and provide insights into how they can cope with their condition and thrive despite the challenges.

Lupus Alert Day

The country raises awareness of lupus annually through the Lupus Alert Day event which is held every first of April. It is also a way of supporting millions of people suffering from this condition. Lupus is an autoimmune disease that is life-threatening wherein the human immune system will attack its own organs and tissues in the body.

This day also serves to promote early detection and management of the disease to improve the quality of life of those living with lupus. Lupus Alert Day was established by the Lupus Foundation of America in 2000, and various organizations and healthcare providers participate in raising awareness about the disease on this day.

Living with Lupus In Senior Housing

Living with lupus in senior housing can be a unique and challenging experience for seniors. Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect various parts of the body, including the joints, skin, kidneys, and other organs. Seniors with lupus may face additional challenges related to their health, mobility, and social support.

One of the biggest challenges seniors with lupus face is managing their symptoms, which can range from mild to severe and can include fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, and other symptoms. Seniors with lupus may also be more susceptible to infections, which can be especially dangerous for those living in close quarters in senior housing.

This disease also influences the normal aging process and vice-versa, which can affect the quality of life. This means that the symptoms can worsen with age. It can also cause accumulating physiological damage over time, including bone loss resulting to osteoporosis or osteopenia.

Good thing, you can manage your symptoms in order to prevent or minimize flares and cope with the challenges of lupus.

Understanding your condition

The more you know about the disease, the more you can better manage the symptoms and take charge of your care.

Knowing your triggers to avoid flares

Exposure to the sun can trigger flare for many with lupus, as do exhaustion, stress, infection, or postpartum. It will be easier to help prevent it when you know what triggers a flare.

Eating healthy

Heart disease and lupus have a strong link. So, you need to reduce your risk by eating well and exercising regularly. A heart-healthy diet includes fruits and vegetables, as well as lean proteins and whole grains.

Getting active

It is good to do moderate exercise when you are feeling better as it can boost your mood.

There are support groups that offer programs and resources to support you in dealing with a chronic disease such as lupus. Although it can be difficult to manage a lifelong disease, it shouldn’t get in the way of maintaining a fulfilling life. Many people suffering from lupus are living happy lives which means that you can too.

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