Tips for Managing Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which a person’s thyroid gland does not make enough of certain hormones. When that happens, they may experience symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, muscle weakness, painful joints, and more.

Hypothyroidism is most common in women over the age of 60. If you’re a caregiver to someone with hypothyroidism, it can sometimes be difficult to know what to do to help an older person to manage hypothyroidism. Below are some tips that could help.

Stick to the Treatment Plan
The doctor will likely prescribe a synthetic hormone to help control hypothyroidism symptoms. The senior will probably need to take the medication for the rest of their lives. It’s important that they continue taking the medication. Caregivers may need to remind the senior to take their medication. Pay attention to how symptoms react to the medication and report any problems to the doctor. It may take a little time to get the dosage just right. 

Provide a Healthy Diet
Make sure the older adult eats well. There isn’t a diet designed for people with hypothyroidism, but eating a balanced diet that includes vegetables, whole grains, fruits, and lean proteins will improve overall health. If the senior has difficulty cooking for themselves, family caregivers or professional home care providers can assist with planning and preparing meals.

Encourage Physical Activity
Hypothyroidism often causes weight gain, which can affect a person’s health. Once your aging relative’s hormone balance has been regulated using medications, it’s important that they get back to being physically active. Exercise can help them to lose the weight they gained. It can also give them more energy.

Take Supplements Separately
Certain supplements, like calcium and iron, can make synthetic hormones less effective if they are taken at the same time as the hormone. To prevent such an interaction, seniors should take their hormone medication at a different time of the day than they take supplements. Caregivers may find it useful to establish a set schedule for taking medications. A routine can make them easier to remember and can ensure that medications and supplements are taken at different times.

Manage Stress
Having a chronic condition can be stressful. Help your aging relative to relax by scheduling a massage for them or encouraging them to use deep breathing techniques. Meditation can also be useful for reducing stress. Another way to manage stress in older adults is to hire a home care provider to assist them with day-to-day activities. Home care providers can alleviate some of the pressure of caring for a home by assisting with household tasks. They can also relieve stress just by making seniors feel safer, knowing that someone will be stopping by to check on them.

Sources
https://www.endocrineweb.com/conditions/hypothyroidism/4-lifestyle-tips-hypothyroidism
https://www.webmd.com/women/features/manage-hypothyroidism#1
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hypothyroidism/symptoms-causes/syc-20350284

If you or an aging loved one are considering caregivers in Hobe Sound, FL, contact the caring staff at BrightStar Care of Jupiter. Call today (561) 741-1200.