5 Tips for Helping a Senior Loved One Who Is Unable to Walk

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How to Help a Senior Loved One Who Is Unable to Walk in Montgomery, AL

 

If your senior loved one has issues with mobility, it may be difficult for him or her physically, socially, and mentally. According to experts, once a senior is no longer able to walk, the loss of independence can cause depression and anxiety and eventually result in the senior no longer leaving the home. Helping your loved one who is unable to walk can allow him or her to stay healthy and bring you closer together.

1. Focus on What Your Parent Can Do

Whether your loved one suddenly lost mobility or has been losing it over an extended period, no longer being able to walk can be incredibly traumatic. Your parent may grieve as he or she realizes all the things he or she is no longer able to do and lets go of plans he or she may have had.

While it’s important to allow your loved one space and time to grieve and adjust to the loss of mobility, it’s also important to be positive. Try to get your parent to focus on what he or she can do rather than what he or she has lost. Remind your loved one he or she can still live a meaningful and rich life without being able to walk.

2. Develop a Routine

Many seniors who lose the ability to walk are at risk for becoming bedridden. Developing a routine and planning activities can keep your loved one engaged and moving. Work with your parent to develop a daily routine that includes getting outside, exercising, making healthy meals, reading, doing hobbies, socializing, and volunteering.

A professional caregiver can help your loved one with daily activities, including safely following an exercise program recommended by your parent’s doctor or physical therapist. Many seniors prefer aging in place over moving to assisted living facilities. If your senior loved one needs assistance to remain safe and comfortable while living at home, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading at-home care agency. Our dedicated in-home caregivers can assist with meal prep, bathing and grooming, exercise, medication reminders, and many other important tasks.

3. Make the Home Safe

Seniors with loss of mobility are at increased risk for falls and accidents. Make sure hallways are wide enough for your loved one’s wheelchair or mobility scooter. Consider removing some of the furniture in the home to help him or her get around more easily. Front steps need to be removed and replaced with a ramp that allows your loved one to safely enter. All doorways should be between 32 inches and 48 inches wide. Bathroom modifications, such as a roll-in shower and grab bars by the toilet, can help your loved one care for him or herself and retain independence.

Trained caregivers with experience in caring for seniors with mobility limitations can be a fantastic resource for family caregivers. Although it may be challenging to find reliable, highly rated elderly home care, Montgomery, AL, families can turn to Home Care Assistance. Our respite and live-in caregivers are expertly trained to assist seniors with a wide array of important tasks, including cooking, bathing, light housekeeping, and exercise.

4. Encourage Socialization

Your loved one may associate a social life with the ability to walk. For instance, if your parent used to go on walks with friends, drive to go out to lunch, or volunteer at the local church, he or she may now feel the need to give up these things. If your loved one doesn’t socialize, he or she is at risk of becoming isolated, which could lead to depression. Encourage your loved one to socialize by joining a support group for seniors with mobility issues, using a wheelchair-friendly car service to get out of the house, and inviting friends over.

5. Consider Hiring a Caregiver

Your loved one may have difficulty with bathing or using the restroom, and it might be embarrassing to ask you or another family member for help. Consider hiring a caregiver to help with personal care tasks. A caregiver can also help with grocery shopping, errands, meal preparation, and a number of other daily tasks.

Caring for a senior loved one with limited mobility can be even more challenging if he or she is living with another age-related condition, such as dementia or Alzheimer’s. Without the right assistance, Alzheimer’s can be challenging for seniors and their families to manage. If you’re looking for professional Alzheimer’s care, Montgomery Home Care Assistance provides high-quality care aging adults and their families can count on. All of our hourly and live-in caregivers are trained to help seniors with Alzheimer’s live happier and healthier lives, and we also provide specialized dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care. Trust your loved one’s care to the professionals at Home Care Assistance. Reach out to one of our compassionate Care Managers today at (334) 593-3988

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