What Can Cause Older Adults to Have Impaired Mobility?
One of the main reasons seniors often need some type of care from family members or caregiving professionals is because of mobility limitations. As for what can impair the ability to get around, there are many possible conditions that can contribute to mobility issues. Here are some of the most common ones.
Arthritis
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 50 million Americans have some form of arthritis, and most of them are 65 or older. Arthritis is a degenerative condition that affects joints and results in the type of stiffness and pain that can reduce mobility. Quality of life for seniors with arthritis may be increased by:
• Staying active as much as possible
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Using appropriate medication to control joint inflammation
Fibromyalgia
The widespread musculoskeletal pain associated with fibromyalgia can make everyday movements difficult for affected seniors. It also causes tenderness that can make accidentally bumping into things when trying to get around painful. Medication and lifestyle adjustments, such as eating foods that naturally fight pain, getting more sleep, and finding ways to stretch and exercise may increase mobility.
Parkinson’s Disease
ParkinsonsDisease.net estimates as many as a million Americans may have Parkinson’s disease (PD), a neurodegenerative disorder that contributes to movement difficulties because of the way it affects the nervous system. The tremors associated with PD can also make it difficult to safely get around or remain stable while standing. The Parkinson’s Foundation recommends the following suggestions for addressing mobility issues:
• Walking with a companion for added safety and peace of mind
• Finding comfortable ways to stay active
• Using mobility assistance devices such as canes and walkers
Aging in place can present a few unique challenges for older adults. Some only require part-time assistance with exercise or meal preparation, while others are living with serious illnesses and benefit more significantly from receiving live-in care. Dallas, TX, Home Care Assistance are leaders in the elderly in-home care industry for good reason. We tailor our care plans based on each senior’s individual needs, our caregivers continue to receive updated training in senior care as new developments arise, and we also offer comprehensive care for seniors with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and Parkinson’s.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a bone disease that reduces bone density and increases seniors’ susceptibility to bone breaks and fractures. Some older adults with this condition unintentionally make symptoms worse by avoiding activity because of concerns about fractures or falling. However, doing so can weaken the muscles that support bones and joints.
For this reason, seniors with osteoporosis are encouraged to find ways to work their core muscle groups as much as possible. Safe options include yoga (because of its slow, controlled movements) and water-based exercises, since water adds stability and eases direct pressure on bones and joints.
A home caregiver can help your loved exercise safely. Dallas senior care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.
Ear-Related Balance Disorders
Older adults sometimes have mobility issues because of difficulties with balance related to the inner ear. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the most common ear-related balance disorders in seniors are peripheral vestibular dysfunctions (such as Meniere’s disease and benign paroxysmal positional vertigo) that affect structures responsible for maintaining equilibrium. Balance is usually restored after a proper diagnosis is made and appropriate treatment is administered.
Neuromuscular Conditions
Conditions of this nature are so named because they affect nerves that control voluntary muscles, such as those in the legs. The muscle weakness associated with multiple sclerosis (MS), muscular dystrophy (MD), myositis, and other neuromuscular conditions can contribute to instability and increase the risk of falling. Possible solutions for addressing related mobility limitations include:
• Regular physical therapy
• Using assistive devices that help with mobility
• Bracing (with doctor approval)
Dallas elderly home care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently. Call Home Care Assistance today at [hca_phone] to learn about our high-quality in-home care services.