5 Tips For Improving Mobility Among Seniors

As much as we’re all remaining healthier and living longer, millions of people continue to experience issues with mobility, especially as they get older. This may come as a result of illness, disability, or chronic pain. Either way, it can make the simplest of tasks become far more challenging than before.

If you or a loved one are having problems moving about, something like exercise can seem out of the question. But worry not, as there are a number of ways that any senior can improve their mobility, which, in turn, will have major effects on their overall mental and physical health. Here are 5 tips to consider.

Stretch

At the foundation of every effective exercise routine is regular stretching. In fact, people of all ages should stretch on a daily basis to improve their balance and mobility.

Stretching increases blood flow, decreases pain, and reduces the risk of injury. Moreover, certain disciplines like yoga and Pilates have additional benefits, such as stress relief, weight reduction, and improved muscle tone. You don’t have to start with anything particularly complex or strenuous.

Even seated exercises can make a world of a difference. They are particularly useful for strengthening key body areas, including the back, chest, and abdomen.

Stay Active

Exercise doesn’t have to be difficult as a senior. A brisk walk has countless benefits and goes a long way in combating a sedentary lifestyle. If you’re unsure about where to start, consulting a physical therapist is a good idea.

Other ways to incorporate exercise into your day include taking the stairs, parking further away from your destination, and walking to nearby amenities instead of driving. Utilizing a medical transport device can slowly be reduced as well. That said, sometimes they are necessary.

Get Assistance

There are several circumstances where assistance is the best way forward. For this reason, investing in a wheelchair that’s powered via a battery is a worthwhile consideration. They can help a senior get around in areas where walking isn’t an option. Be sure to do some shopping around to find a wheelchair that’s worth the asking price.

Eat a Healthy Diet

Mobility depends on maintaining a healthy weight. That’s why it’s important to follow a balanced and complete diet. This includes drinking plenty of water and avoiding sugary foods or those that are highly processed. Fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, and some meat make for a healthy diet.

By eating the right food, you can also reduce your risk of the many health complications and diseases that are prevalent among seniors today. A healthy diet also supports sleep and cognitive functioning, not to mention bone strength. You’ll feel better and be able to achieve more every day.

Be Extra Careful

As a senior, it only takes one misstep to experience a fall that can seriously hinder your mobility. Fall-related injuries are a major concern among elderly people, so it pays to be cautious. This is another reason why having a medical transport device is a good idea. If you find yourself struggling to maintain balance, be sure to consider the following:

Walking on ice, which can be risky for anyone, is best avoided.

Remember to move carefully over slick surfaces such as frozen walkways and driveways. Watch out for debris as well. In situations where you need to bend or stretch to reach for something, it may be better to ask for assistance. Organizing your living space in a way that makes it easy to navigate and perform daily tasks will help as well.

Keep the above-mentioned tips in your mind as you tackle mobility. With enough practice, you’ll quickly be moving without problems.