Improving Leg Circulation for Seniors
February 20, 2025
Proper circulation is a big part of helping aging adults lead healthy and full lives. If seniors are having trouble with circulation, especially in their legs, it’s important that they talk with their doctors about what they are experiencing. Once the medical end of the equation is being handled, there may be some changes seniors need to make at home to improve leg circulation. Senior home care providers can help with some of these changes.
Signs of Poor Circulation
First, it’s important that seniors notice what the signs of poor circulation in their legs are. Some of the most common symptoms include swollen feet, ankles, and legs. That swelling can extend up the leg as well. Their feet might be cold, even if other parts of their body are warm. Discoloration or tingling in the limbs can also indicate poor circulation.
Increasing Exercise
One of the recommendations seniors might get from their doctors could include exercising more if they’re able to do so safely. Exercise helps because it gets the heart rate up and causes blood to flow a little more rapidly. This helps oxygen and other nutrients carried by the blood to move through the body more easily. Something as simple as taking a walk around the neighborhood with elder care providers can be an easy way to get more exercise.
Elevating the Legs
Another recommendation might be for seniors to elevate their legs when they’re sitting down. This is especially important if they’re seeing a lot of swelling in their lower extremities. This alleviates pressure and helps blood to flow more freely back to the upper parts of the body. When seniors sit for longer than a few minutes, they should consider propping their legs up so they can stay comfortable.
Compression Socks
Some seniors find that compression socks help, too. Compression socks apply gentle pressure to the feet and lower legs which prevents blood from pooling in the lower parts of the leg. If seniors experience pain and cramping from poor circulation, compression socks can help. Senior home care providers can help aging adults put compression socks on and take them off, since that can be tricky to do alone with mobility issues.
Massage
Gentle massage can also help significantly with improving blood circulation. Massage can also help to ease tight, sore muscles, which could help seniors increase their range of motion. Regular massages can be a fun and relaxing addition to their schedule, giving seniors something to look forward to.
Improve Hydration
Too many seniors don’t drink enough water and this can contribute to poor blood circulation. Senior home care providers can help aging adults find beverages they like and that they’re willing to drink more often. Sticking to hydrating routines keeps seniors from getting dehydrated and can help to improve circulation, too.
Keeping seniors healthy and happy means looking at the issues they’re facing and finding the right solutions. With the help of senior home care providers, aging adults can eat healthier, exercise more, and hopefully stick to routines that help them improve their circulation, especially in their legs and lower body.
If you or your loved one is looking for Senior Home Care in Mountain View, CA, please call Familiar Surroundings Home Care.
Santa Clara County: (408) 979-9990
San Mateo County: (650) 353-9777
Santa Cruz County: (831) 480-3990