senior, mobility

How to Manage Mobility Issues as a Senior

Mobility issues become more common as you age, which is why you see more seniors with walking sticks and wheelchairs than any other age group. The severity of mobility problems varies, with some people struggling to make it down the stairs, while others can happily walk to the shop—but struggle to make it all around the town. If you have noticed your mobility deteriorating as a senior, here is how to manage it.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Maintaining a healthy weight will help prevent your mobility issues from worsening, as excess fat will only hinder your movements. To do this, focus on eating a healthy diet and getting plenty of exercise. If you’re unsure about what you should eat, you can always talk to your doctor and ask for a recommended eating plan.

Keeping active is particularly helpful for those with low mobility, as it helps improve your movement and balance while also keeping excess weight off, so aim to fit some exercise in each day.

Consider Assisted Living

If you find that your low mobility is affecting your day-to-day life to the point where you’re struggling to cook, clean, socialize, or simply get around the house, consider assisted living. According to Brightview senior assisted living in Baltimore, joining an assisted living community can vastly improve your quality of life while ensuring your health is well cared for. It’s not just about looking after your health—it’s also about providing a comfortable, enriching place to live.

Install a Stairlift

If you’re not ready to move house, but you find it challenging to get up and down the stairs, then a stairlift can help you there. It means that you can freely get around your home without having to ask for help or deal with the pain of pushing yourself too hard.

Ask Friends and Family for Help

If you have loved ones living nearby, then ask them for help when you want to get out and about. Having someone beside you while you browse the shops or go out for a coffee can make a huge difference; plus, you’ll get the benefit of their company.

Use a Mobility Aid

There are plenty of walking assistance devices on offer for those who struggle with mobility, so research the different ones and choose one that suits your lifestyle. For example, if you like to get out and about the town but struggle to do so, you could have an accessible vehicle .

Visit Your Doctor

Mobility issues can be caused by heart disease, arthritis, dementia, diabetes, and obesity. While yours might simply be down to growing old, it’s best to get yourself checked out in case of an underlying cause. That way, if you do have a health issue, you can then work towards treating it.

 

Impaired mobility affects many areas of life, but there are ways to manage it. By finding the right ways to cope, you can ensure your senior years aren’t completely clouded by your mobility issues.