The inability to move around freely impacts the ability to live independently. Although some loss of mobility is normal with age, your senior loved one can still prevent many of the most common causes for needing assistance getting around. Watch out for these six causes of impaired mobility in older adults that can be addressed before they’re severe enough to limit your loved one’s enjoyment in life.
1. Arthritis
This health condition is marked by stiff and painful joints that make it difficult to get around comfortably. Arthritis can affect any joint in the body, but it tends to impact the ones seniors use the most throughout life. For instance, seniors frequently experience the symptoms of arthritis in their knees, ankles, and hands. There are several types of arthritis, and they all have potential treatments your loved one can explore to find relief from the symptoms.
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to address if their families opt for professional elderly home care. You can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep your loved one safe and comfortable while aging in place.
2. Osteoporosis
Bone loss is another health issue that accompanies getting older. Seniors who lose too much bone are at risk for issues such as hip fractures that can render them dependent on others. Your loved one can do things to prevent osteoporosis. Bone density scans can let your loved one know his or her current level of risk. Your parent can also take health supplements and engage in weight-bearing exercise that maintains bone mass.
3. Parkinson’s Disease
This degenerative neurological disease slowly robs older adults of their mobility. You can’t stop Parkinson’s once it starts, but there are options that may prevent issues such as muscle rigidity from affecting your loved one’s life. Your loved one should follow his or her treatment plan and take medicine as prescribed. He or she also needs to take steps to prevent symptoms from leading to injuries that further reduce mobility.
If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Senior Stride Home Care, a leading provider of senior care Oshkosh, WI, families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
4. Stroke
Strokes can sometimes damage parts of the brain that affect how seniors walk and move different parts of their bodies. After a stroke, your loved one may need assistance with going to therapy appointments that help him or her regain the ability to walk and grasp objects. Some seniors may also need to wear orthotic devices or use walkers to further increase their mobility.
5. Back Injuries
Old injuries tend to come back to haunt people in their senior years. Back pain is a common issue that changes how people move. Seniors may adjust their posture to accommodate for back pain, which could cause them to do things such as shuffle while walking. Your loved one may benefit from having help with tasks that further strain his or her back, such as cleaning or carrying heavy groceries.
6. Degenerative Disc Disease
Over time, the cartilage between the discs of the spine begins to break down, which can cause pain and limited movement in the arms, neck, and back. Degenerative disc disease tends to worsen over time, but talking about assistance now can help you meet your loved one’s needs as his or her mobility changes over the years.
Mobility limitations can make it challenging for aging adults to continue living at home without assistance. For many seniors in Oshkosh, WI, live-in care is an essential component of aging in place safely and comfortably. However, it’s important for them to have caregivers they can trust and rely on. At Senior Stride Home Care, we extensively screen all of our live-in and 24-hour caregivers and only hire those who have experience in the senior home care industry. Our strict requirements ensure seniors can remain in the comfort of home with a reduced risk of injury or serious illness. Call one of our trusted Care Managers today at 920-717-1767 to schedule a free in-home consultation.