May is Arthritis Awareness Month.  According to the Arthritis Foundation, there are more than 100 medical conditions associated with arthritis and it affects nearly 46 million Americans to date.  Arthritis is described as an inflammation of one or more joints (such as knees, shoulders, wrists...).  The general symptoms are:
*pain
*stiffness
*swelling                                                                                           
*redness
*decreased range of motion

The pain is caused from joint damage due to wear and tear (osteoarthritis) or from the body's immune system attacking the joints (rheumatoid arthritis).  Regardless of cause, it is a painful condition that can prohibit even the simplest of movements.  The Mayo Clinic stresses that "exercise is crucial for people with arthritis.  It increases strength and flexibility, reduces joint pain and helps combat fatigue".  Obviously, a doctor should always be consulted before attempting certain exercises.  You and your doctor can work out a program that fits your capabilities and interests. 

One of the easiest and safest ways to exerecise is walking. Other than shoes with good support, no other equipment is necessary.  It can be done indoors, so is not dependent on weather or location.  Another benefit is that it can be done alone or in a group.  As with many activities, however, a group can be more fun and if it is more fun, then it is more likely you will continue to do it.  At The Pointe at Kilpatrick, there is a solid group of about 15 residents who participate in a group walk 3 days a week.  Weather permitting, they walk outside in the gardens or surrounding area and when the weather is bad, they walk through the different neighborhoods in the community of the Pointe at Kilpatrick. Even those that require a walker for stability are encouraged to participate.  Each walking session last about 25 minutes.  Several of the participants have arthritis and say the walks help to relieve the pain and discomfort associated with their conditions.  Another benefit to the group walk is the social interaction it provides.  The simple act of having a conversation helps to promote brain fitness and stimulation.  It is an overall workout; body and mind.

The Pointe at Kilpatrick also offers another group exercise prgram that helps in the fight against arthritis symptoms.  It is a stationary program that focuses on range of motion exercises.  With over 30 regular attendees, the program is geared for everyone, despite any physical limitations they may have. The session involves strectching and repetitive basic movements to keep joints loose and functioning.  By strengthening joints and the muscles surrounding them, pain and swelling are reduced, giving the individual more freedom and a greater range of motion overall.  Another important factor is that these exercises can be done standing or sitting, so even residents who require the use of a wheel chair can still participate as a group and get the same benefits of the exercises and social interactions. 

If you or someone you know has arthritis, make it a point to start an exercise program or help someone start one for themself.  Taking family walks is an easy, and free, way to not only exercise, but to reconnect with loved ones.  It is an activity that any age person can participate in. 
If you have any experiences or suggestions on arthritis and/or exercises that help, please feel free to respond.