While these findings seem daunting, they aren't the only facts regarding seniors and mobility. Older adults today have a wealth of resources at their disposal to improve and maintain their maneuverability.
From consulting with medical professionals specializing in improving mobility to engaging in simple stretches that can help reduce pain and stiffness, seniors can take steps to enhance their lives.
Read on to discover many of the resources available to help you remain mobile and live vibrantly as you age.
Seniors' bodies have experienced a lot of wear and tear throughout their lives. The accumulative toll combined with chronic conditions, such as arthritis, peripheral neuropathy and osteoporosis, often makes daily tasks challenging.
When their mobility diminishes, older adults can struggle to complete household chores, yard work and errands. Simple actions that were once easy, including getting out of bed or a chair, become noticeably harder.
Many residents of senior communities, such as Bethesda Gardens Phoenix, moved into assisted living because it was difficult to bathe, dress and maintain a home without help.
The greatest boon for seniors in their mobility journey is the number of allies they can call for assistance. Their primary physician can counsel them on beneficial exercises and lifestyle changes as well as refer them to trained specialists regarding specific issues.
Residents here in Bethesda Gardens Phoenix can request advice from our registered nurses and enjoy on-site therapy services. Our staff can also arrange transportation to off-site medical appointments and tests.
There are multiple branches of mobility specialists, but the ones seniors are most likely to visit are therapists, neurologists, orthopedic surgeons and podiatrists.
Physical therapists are mobility experts who focus on helping people recover lost function and maintain skills. They can help individuals manage pain levels, improve flexibility, prevent future injuries and achieve fitness goals.
In the same fashion as physical therapists, occupational therapists help older adults maintain their independence and ability to move freely. However, they focus on what an individual needs and wants to do. Then, they create plans to help them gain the skills to do those specific tasks or adopt a new way to accomplish the same goal.
Neurologists specialize in diagnosing and treating disorders related to the brain and nervous system, including Parkinson's, neuropathy and rheumatoid arthritis. When a senior struggles with unexplained pain, dizziness, difficulty walking or poor coordination, a neurologist can look for underlying conditions causing the nerve damage and mobility issues.
Orthopedic surgeons treat seniors experiencing bone, muscle and joint pain. These specialists treat arthritis, osteoporosis and spinal issues, helping individuals regain mobility, bone strength and flexibility.
Podiatrists manage issues related to the feet and lower legs. Besides offering preventive care focused on keeping skin, joints, bones and nails healthy, they treat fractures, sprains and chronic conditions, such as arthritis and bunions.
A common phrase regarding skills and abilities is "Use it or lose it." While mobility issues and pain can make it hard to get up and move around, activity is integral to maintaining flexibility and function.
At Bethesda Gardens Phoenix, we aim to support our residents' physical abilities and fitness through carefully prepared exercise classes and activities.
Our residents don't have to wait for a scheduled event to get active and stretch out their stiffness. Seniors may wish to try simple movements to improve their range of motion and ease sore muscles and joints from the comfort of their assisted living apartment.
You could also follow along with instructors on a senior-friendly tai chi or yoga instructional video. Additional suggestions may include completing simple stretches, either from a standing or seated position.
Seven stretches to consider include:
Before you start, check with your physicians, nurses and caregivers who know your health and abilities to find the most suitable exercises for you.
