When an aging parent faces mobility issues, it can be challenging for both them and their family. Concerns about their limited mobility and decreasing independence are natural.
Whether your loved one can no longer drive, has difficulty walking long distances, or requires a walker or wheelchair, there are ways to support them while ensuring they receive compassionate care.
Risk Factors for Mobility Issues
While aging is the primary risk factor for mobility challenges, other conditions can also increase the likelihood of mobility problems, including:
- Low activity levels
- Obesity
- Loss of muscle tone and strength
- Balance impairments
- Depression
- Dementia
- Recent hospitalization or health events
- Chronic conditions like diabetes, arthritis, and neurological disorders
Some of these issues might be treatable through rehabilitation, medication, or mental health care. It’s important to consult with your loved one’s physician if they have any of these risk factors.
Strategies for Coping with Mobility Challenges
Adapting to mobility changes can be difficult, but with time and creativity, older adults can maintain a good quality of life. Support from family members and in-home caregivers can help them stay positive during this adjustment period.
Here are some strategies to help manage mobility challenges:
- Ask for Help
If balancing personal, family, work responsibilities, and caregiving becomes overwhelming, seek help from family members, friends, or neighbours. Alternatively, consider hiring an in-home caregiver from Nursecare+. These caregivers can provide companionship, assist with personal care tasks, offer medication reminders, perform light housekeeping, run errands, and more.
- Empathize
It can be tough for an older adult who has always been independent to now rely on others for transportation, groceries, and personal needs. If your loved one seems frustrated, listen to their concerns and provide reassurance to enhance their emotional well-being.
- Provide Social Opportunities
Mobility issues can lead to social isolation, increasing the risk of anxiety and depression. Ensure your loved one has plenty of opportunities to socialize. Facilitate transportation for attending religious services, visiting a senior center, having lunch with a friend, or inviting friends over.
- Enhance Home Safety
Reducing the risk of falls is crucial. Install grab bars, raised toilet seats, shower/tub seats, and other equipment in the bathroom. Remove clutter and rugs, improve lighting, and install non-slip flooring and mats. In-home caregivers can help identify hazards and provide standby assistance.
Professional Caregivers Can Help
Mobility concerns significantly impact life, but with proper support and planning, they don’t have to diminish your loved one’s quality of life.
If you notice mobility problems in your aging parent, consider hiring Nursecare+ to assist with their daily care needs. Our coordinators will conduct a no-cost home care consultation to discuss specific needs and requests.
If you are interested in our compassionate home care services, contact Nursecare+ today or call us at (+91) 93618-23400.
