Tips for Managing Mobility Loss

Once you have become ill and the treatments are going on, your body is more likely to get affected by the process in every possible means. One of the things out of these effects is your ability to not move around, feeling unsteady while walking and, much more. This is when mobility aids come to the rescue and help you find your purpose back in life. A reduction in mobility is a normal part of aging. For some people, other conditions or injuries can lead to more sudden or dramatic mobility loss. But for most, the impact that mobility loss has on your life can be reduced with proper management techniques. Keep reading to learn more about how to manage mobility loss in seniors better.

Staying Active

No, you may not be able to run a half-marathon like you did when you were 30, but you must stay active in your later years if you want to visit mobile. Regular exercise can strengthen your muscles and improve flexibility to be more mobile in your day-to-day life. Whether it’s walking with your neighbor, swimming at the public pool, or enrolling in a dance class, any form of exercise will improve your overall body strength and mobility. Just be sure to talk to your doctor before beginning any new exercise program.

Monitor Your Weight

This goes hand-in-hand with staying active. Getting around is much more challenging to do if you’re carrying around extra weight. Those extra pounds will also take a toll on your joints and your bones, causing even more mobility problems. If you’re overweight, talk to your doctor about how to safely reduce your BMI so that you can be more mobile, as well as improving your overall health.

Eliminate Fall Hazards

As already mentioned, not all mobility loss can be avoided. As you age, your muscle strength and bone density diminish, making balance and movement more difficult. It’s important to acknowledge this and make adjustments to your home to avoid falling. Remove tripping hazards like loose rugs or exposed cords. Ensure all stairs have handrails. Install safety bars and grab handles where needed. Switch your traditional tub for a walk-in tub or shower with a lower step and comfortable seat for washing. These changes can prevent injuries that will lead to further mobility issues.

Consider a Mobility Aid

If you’ve noticed a decline in your mobility, speak to your doctor about whether or not you could benefit from a mobility aid. A cane, walker, or even a scooter or wheelchair may be necessary to help manage your mobility loss. Keep in mind that you may not need to use these aids all the time; however, using a mobility aid when necessary can be another preventative measure to avoid injuries that could make a wheelchair a permanent necessity.

By improving your overall mobility and making changes to accommodate some mobility loss, you can continue to live a happy, full life. Small changes in your home, like installing a walk-in tub or shower, can go a long way towards helping you maintain as much mobility and independence as possible.