The National Benefit Authority Team

Back pain can cause an individual to avoid movement of all kinds to avoid the pain.  Immobility will cause higher levels of pain.  Canadians have discovered the various exercises that will reduce pain levels without medication.  The National Benefit Authority encourages everyone to embrace healthy daily activities to prevent the onset of chronic health conditions.  Proper exercise strengthens core muscles that hold the spine in alignment.

Pelvic lift

While lying on the back, the knees should be bent with the feet flat on the floor.  Lift the pelvis until the spine is straight.  Hold the position for five full seconds before lowering the buttocks to the floor again.  Repeat three to five times.

Knee to chest

Remain lying on the floor and keep one leg flat on the floor while grasping the other knee.  Slowly pull the leg toward the chest and hold for 15 seconds.  The muscles in the back are stretched.  Repeat three times.

Hip extension

While down on all fours, the neck should be straight.  As the head is lowered to the floor, the right knee is brought toward the face.  In a single motion, raise the face toward the ceiling and extend the leg toward the back wall.  Return to the starting position and alternate legs for three repetitions.

Side bend

Stand with the feet shoulder-width part and the arms relaxed at the side.  The right shoulder should be lowered to the right side while the hand reaches for the knee.  The muscles on the left side of the body will be stretched.  Repeat while alternating sides for three repetitions.

Many other back exercises improve mobility and strengthen major muscle groups.  Spinal alignment is essential for reducing back pain. Those who have chronic back pain should contact the National Benefit Authority to determine if compensation from the Canada Revenue Agency is available.

Most older people have friends and family members who assist with their daily activities of living.  Aging presents many physical challenges that leave many of the tasks to the caregiver.  The National Benefit Authority encourages everyone in the situation to be aware that the primary caregiver must be offered relief from the strain of the daily routine.  Working together is the best approach for ensuring that everyone involved receives some time off from the constant demands.

• Nap break – Each day presents various challenges that can seem overwhelming.  A caregiver must take one hour each day away from the situation.  Naptime for the older person is the perfect opportunity to take a walk or read a book.  This break provides much-needed rejuvenation.

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  Afternoon away – The weekly schedule must include an entire afternoon away from the routine for the caregiver.  Other family members can take a turn each month staying with the elder.  An outing for the older person is just as much fun as time away for the caregiver.  Both will have experiences to share when they return home.

• Weekend break – Full-time care leaves little time for the details of the caregiver’s life.  One weekend out of four must be scheduled for personal time for the caregiver.  Family members must commit to working together to provide this time.  Ignoring this need can result in the caregiver experiencing burn out.

• Active support – The elder’s condition should never be left to one person.  The caregiver must have supporting people who are interested in listening.

The National Benefit Authority can guide the caregiver through the application process for benefits that can be received for the elder.  Assistance programs are helpful for the housecleaning and meal preparation.  Monetary compensation is available for many situations.  The best way to find out more is to make that phone call today.