If you’re providing assistance to an aging loved one, he or she may develop mobility issues over time. Limitations of this nature could also create difficulties with getting around and impact quality of life. However, it’s often possible to manage mobility impairments with the right type of care. Here are six of the specific reasons elderly individuals sometimes have mobility difficulties.
1. Arthritis
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 60 million adults have some type of arthritis in the United States, and most of these people are 65 or older. The swelling and inflammation characteristic of arthritis can affect joints enough to impair mobility. Being proactive about diet and exercise habits can reduce your loved one’s risk of developing serious issues with arthritis.
If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of senior care. Assisting Hands Home Care provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
2. Obesity
The CDC estimates that nearly 10 million adults 65 to 74 are considered obese. Carrying around excess weight places added stress on joints along with the soft tissues that support the spine, especially the lower back area. Extra weight could impair mobility in seniors because of:
- Joint fractures or pain
- Lower back issues such as spinal disc damage or sciatica
- Soft tissue strains or sprains
3. Fibromyalgia
A chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fibromyalgia makes soft tissues tender and painful. Because everything can hurt with fibromyalgia, this condition can make it difficult to get around. The resulting instability could also increase your loved one’s risk of bumping into things and experiencing additional discomfort.
4. Neurological Disorders
Some seniors develop issues with neurological disorders they had earlier in life that produce more problematic symptoms later, and this may happen because of the ongoing breakdown of healthy muscle and nerve tissue. Multiple sclerosis and muscular dystrophy are two of the more common neurological disorders that can impair mobility.
Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia can be classified as neurological disorders as well. These conditions can also have an impact on mobility during more advanced stages due to the way the brain, which manages all nervous system signals, is affected.
Even when families have the best intentions, caring for a senior loved one with dementia can be challenging. Fortunately, Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help. We are a leading provider of dementia care. Danville families can take advantage of our flexible and customizable care plans, and our caregivers always stay up to date on the latest developments in senior care.
5. Parkinson’s Disease
Tremors and muscle stiffness are two of the symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease that can impair mobility in seniors. Parkinson’s doesn’t always cause pain, but it can contribute to slow or exaggerated movements. If this is the case with your loved one, he or she may benefit from the use of appropriate assistive aids, such as a walker or a wheelchair.
6. Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a bone disease that slows down or speeds up the production of new bone tissue in a way that makes bones and joints weaker. Seniors with this condition may reach a point where they move slowly to reduce their risk of falling. Those with osteoporosis may benefit from:
- Bone-building medications
- Low-heeled or nonslip shoes that prevent falls
- Hormone-related therapies
- Nutrient-rich foods that promote healthy bone tissue growth
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 Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of home care Danville families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. To create a tailored in-home care plan for your loved one, call us today.
