Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a condition in which a person experiences strange sensations in their legs. It often feels like an uncontrollable urge to move their legs. In fact, the sensation is often eased by walking or moving the legs in some way. Symptoms of RLS typically get worse in the evening, which can interfere with sleep. If your aging relative suffers from RLS, there are things that can help them to feel better. Below are some tips for easing restless leg syndrome.
Avoid RLS Triggers
There are many things that can bring on RLS symptoms or make them worse. Triggers may not be the same for all people. Some common triggers are:
- Stress.
- Alcohol.
- Exercising too much.
- Smoking.
- Caffeine.
An elder care provider can help to identify your aging relative’s RLS triggers by noting what they have been doing throughout the day and how their symptoms are affected. Once the senior’s triggers have been identified, an elder care provider can help them to avoid the triggers.
Massage Legs
Gently rubbing the legs can be effective in relieving RLS symptoms because it helps to relax the muscles.
An elder care provider can rub your older family member’s legs when RLS symptoms occur and before bed to help them relax.
Practice Good Sleep Hygiene
Because RLS can affect your aging relative’s sleep, changing some of their sleep habits can help them to get more sleep and feel better overall. Some suggestions for improving sleep are:
- Pillows: Placing a pillow between the senior’s knees can relieve symptoms by keeping nerves from being pressed.
- Stick to a Schedule: Getting up and going to bed at the same time each night can promote better sleep.
- Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine: The older adult should switch to relaxing activities prior to going to bed, such as reading a book or listening to relaxing music. Follow the same routine each night to signal the body that it is nearing time to sleep.
An elder care provider can assist the older adult with preparing for bed and getting comfortable in their bed at night. If RLS symptoms occur during the night, an elder care provider working the overnight hours can help the senior to move around safely if needed.
Regular Exercise
Although exercising too much can trigger RLS, getting some exercise each day can help to ease symptoms.
An elder care provider can help your aging relative to include some moderate exercise in their days by going for walks with them or taking them to the local pool to swim.
Sources
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/restless-legs-syndrome/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20377174
https://www.helpguide.org/articles/sleep/restless-leg-syndrome-rls.htm
https://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/features/tips-for-restless-legs-syndrome-relief
If you or an aging loved-one is considering elder care in Turlock, CA, please contact the caring staff at Provident Care Home Care today at (209) 578-1210.
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