Contrary to popular belief, seniors with limited mobility can still experience increased activity levels, even when living at home. For seniors with limitations, increasing activity levels and staying motivated can potentially enhance their quality of life as well as reduce the risks of developing chronic health conditions associated with inactivity, such as heart disease, obesity, or depression.
What Is Limited Mobility?
Limited mobility is a broad and commonly used term, but when it comes to the elderly, it specifically refers to those individuals who cannot perform or assist with everyday tasks due to physical disabilities such as arthritis or limited range of motion. Unfortunately, many seniors are stuck in the same daily routine without any stimulation or activities that can positively affect their mental and physical health.
Benefits of Increased Activity Levels
While the concept of 'fitness' may feel intimidating for elderly adults with limited mobility, it is possible and beneficial. Increasing activity levels can potentially decrease pain from tight muscles and joints, improve balance, enhance coordination skills, reduce stress, and lead to better sleep. It also gives seniors an opportunity to socially interact with others in their same facilities or organizations which creates a sense of companionship.
How to Create Motivation & Increase Activity Levels
These are some of the ways in which seniors with limited mobility can stay motivated and increase their activity levels:
1. Establish Goals
Goal-setting is a proven behavior modification technique that has been used to effectively help people make healthier lifestyle choices. When it comes to increasing activity levels among elderly adults, setting achievable/realistic goals that fit their current physical limitations and capabilities (such as going for a 10-minute walk three times per week or completing light stretching exercises every day) can be an effective way to stay motivated and build up the desire to participate in physical activities on regular basis.
2. Find an Activity Partner
Due to chronic conditions such as arthritis, many seniors do not feel comfortable participating in group classes or gatherings since they might not all have the same capabilities and levels of fitness. Having someone like a friend, neighbor, or family member join them on their exercise routine will allow them to have more fun while still working towards improving health at their own pace.
3. Utilize Technology
Technology is becoming increasingly relevant within senior care facilities across the world; providing elders with access to resources such as guided video tutorials for safe yoga routines from home, or even low-impact workout videos with visuals or descriptions of how each exercise should be done correctly.
4. Join a Support Group
Connecting with other elderly adults who deal with similar struggles in regard to physical limitations allows people who may otherwise feel isolated by their condition to create bonds that lead to increased confidence and motivation when engaging in activities that were once thought of as challenging (or even impossible). It also provides an opportunity for them to exchange tips and advice relating to safety precautions that should be taken during exercises.
Get Help From Senior Helpers Southern Arizona
If you or your loved one need assistance with daily activities or specialized care, contact us at Senior Helpers Southern Arizona today. We provide in-home senior care services in Benson, Bisbee, Douglas, Sierra Vista, Huachuca City, and surrounding areas.