Mobility issues are a common part of aging for many individuals. Whether caused by chronic illnesses or simply a natural part of the aging process, those mobility challenges can create significant concerns. Take a look at some of the common mobility issues that face many seniors and how you can create a plan to help improve independence for family members who may struggle with the impact of aging.
Common Mobility Issues for Seniors
As people age, mobility can become one of the most difficult components of living independently. Seniors may suffer from natural muscle weakness or joint pain that makes it more difficult for them to get around or maneuver well. Common challenges may include:
- Difficulty walking on uneven ground
- Difficulty going up or down the stairs
- Getting up after sitting, especially after a long period of time
- Getting up after a fall
- Bending down to reach things on the ground or on lower furniture
Some seniors may lose the ability to get around on their own and may need extra assistance to make it possible. Fortunately, modern technology offers many advantages that make it easier for seniors to get around.
Home Modifications for Seniors with Mobility Issues
Making a few adjustments to the home can make it easier for seniors to move around. These modifications may include:
- Widened doorways: Making door frames wider allows seniors more space to comfortably navigate their way through small spaces.
- Stairlifts: Installing stairlifts or walkway ramps can help minimize the risks associated with climbing stairs and allow access to areas that would otherwise be inaccessible for seniors with difficulty getting up and down steps in homes with multiple floors.
- Bathroom modifications: Adding handrails, non-slip flooring, raised toilet seats, or transfer/walk-in tubs can greatly increase safety while using the bathroom.
- Kitchen modifications: Adding pullout shelves or wheelchair-accessible counters offer greater independence by letting people reach objects without having to bend over or stand on their tiptoes.
Accessibility Devices
Modern technology offers many solutions for seniors with limited mobility. Scooters, for example, can help a great deal when it comes to getting out of the house. Inside the house, walkers, handrails, or wheelchairs can make it easier for seniors to get around. Mobility devices can also offer assistance with grabbing and reaching items or provide assistance with a number of important daily tasks.
Transportation
Public transportation options such as wheelchair-accessible buses, taxis for the elderly, and shuttles offered through public and private organizations can provide access to places throughout the city or community. Many cities also offer special rideshare services for seniors with mobility issues so they don't have to worry about navigating on their own.
Care and Support
Support services such as adult daycare, in-home care, or respite care offered by professional caregivers can provide the extra help needed to make it easier for seniors with mobility issues to maintain their independence.
Senior Helpers Tampa Can Offer Assistance to Seniors with Mobility Issues
Serious mobility issues often interfere with seniors' ability to care for themselves. In-home senior care options can help keep seniors safe and improve care while allowing them to stay at home, as independent as possible. At Senior Helpers Tampa, we provide those vital services for seniors in Tampa, Hillsborough County, Lutz, and Odessa. Contact us today to learn more about the services we can provide, including help with transportation and day-to-day care.