It’s no secret that the body changes with age, but what might surprise seniors is that their grip strength also changes. Why does this matter? Reduced grip strength may make it difficult for them to open jars or hold onto objects securely, which might affect everyday activities and independence. The good news is that with home care assistance providers by their side, seniors can understand the changes in their grip strength and possibly learn tips to improve their grip.
Why Does Age Cause Grip to Weaken?
Several factors contribute to the deterioration of grip strength in older adults. For instance, the aging process naturally causes a loss of bone density and muscle mass. This weakening might have an impact on the tendons and muscles used to hold objects firmly. Additionally, diseases like arthritis can inflame the joints, which makes it difficult and uncomfortable to keep a firm grasp.
Other factors include the following:
- Reduced blood flow to the hands as a result of circulation issues may weaken grip strength over time.
- A lack of exercise or performing repetitive tasks that put stress on the hands and wrists without enough rest can increase muscle deterioration and exacerbate grip weakness.
- Neurological diseases such as stroke or Parkinson’s disease can affect the nerve signals that go to the muscles, which can result in a loss of strength.
How Can Seniors Strengthen Their Grip?
While it might be normal to lose grip strength in the older years, there are a few things that seniors might be able to do that allow them to continue their day-to-day tasks. One of those things is hand exercises, like gripping a stress ball or using hand grippers.
Using resistance bands is also a great way to strengthen grip. With home care assistance, seniors can learn the right way to use resistance bands and ensure their safety. For those who are musically inclined or enjoy gardening—both “grip-intensive” hobbies—seniors can be encouraged to continue these tasks to build their strength.
Improved grip strength can result from routine activity that maintains general physical fitness. Cardiovascular workouts like swimming or walking, along with upper-body strength training exercises, can promote the development of all body muscles, including those required for a solid grasp.
What Problems Could Low Grip Strength Cause?
The loss of grip strength can cause several problems that could lower seniors’ quality of life. As mentioned, it can be harder to open jars or grasp onto objects securely, which raises the risk of falls due to instability. There’s also evidence that weakened grip strength can increase the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome and arthritis. If left untreated, this can lead to limited mobility and chronic pain.
Seniors must take the initiative to maintain and strengthen their grip strength through focused exercise and lifestyle modifications. They gain the support they need with home care assistance by their side, as well as following the tips above to increase their grip.
Sources: https://www.thirdagefitness.com.au/pages/trudis-ten-10-exercises-to-improve-grip-strength-for-older-adults-and-seniors
https://newsroom.clevelandclinic.org/2023/03/28/how-weak-grip-strength-plays-a-role-in-aging/
If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Care Assistance Services in Del Mar CA, please call the caring staff at Canaan Home Care today! 1-844-CANAAN-1 (1-844-226-2261)
Canaan Home Care – A Premier Provider of Senior Home Care in the La Jolla, Del Mar, San Diego, Rancho Santa Fe, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Tustin, and Manhattan Beach areas.
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