Mobility problems are some of the most challenging issues seniors face. Loss of mobility can lead to diminished independence, social isolation, and an increased risk of illness. Here are some common causes of mobility problems in aging adults that can often be addressed with proper medical intervention.
Brittle Bone Disease
Also known as osteoporosis, brittle bone disease causes bone thinning, weakness, pain, and limited mobility. Osteoporosis often causes spinal pain, but it also affects the hips and other joints. This condition causes mobility problems in a couple of different ways. Bone pain causes loss of mobility, decreased flexibility, and diminished range of motion.
Osteoporosis also raises the risk of falls and fractures, which may cause seniors to fear falling and subsequently walk and move around slower. Some aging adults may avoid walking altogether because they’re afraid of falling.
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 Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of senior care families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
Neurological Disorders
Neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease can also cause mobility limitations in seniors. Parkinson’s disease can cause gait problems and balance deficits, which can raise the risk of falls. People with Parkinson’s disease often have a shuffling type of gait, and they may also hesitate between steps.
The neurological effects of strokes can also cause mobility problems as a result of weakness or paralysis. Physical therapy can help people with neurological problems overcome mobility deficits and increase balance and strength while promoting circulation to muscles, joints, and internal organs.
Vascular Disease
Peripheral vascular disease is more common in older adults and people with diabetes. It causes poor circulation and can lead to leg weakness, ambulation problems, and severe pain. People with peripheral vascular disease can develop stasis ulcers on the feet and ankles, which can further impair mobility.
Managing high blood glucose levels can decrease the risk of peripheral vascular disease. Other interventions that can alleviate the symptoms of poor circulation include taking medication for high blood pressure, consuming a healthy diet, losing weight, not smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption.
If your loved one has mobility problems as a result of peripheral vascular disease, make sure he or she sees a doctor on a regular basis. The doctor can monitor your loved one’s vascular disease by ordering periodic ultrasound studies of the leg veins and prescribing medication if blood flow studies reveal abnormalities.
Living with serious health conditions can make it challenging for seniors to age in place. However, they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional live-in care. Richmond seniors can benefit from assistance with meal prep, bathing, transportation to the doctor’s office, medication reminders, and much more.
Arthritis
Degenerative joint diseases such as osteoarthritis are common causes of mobility problems in seniors. When the joints become painful and inflamed, your loved one may have difficulty rising from a seated position, experience morning stiffness, and develop severe pain when walking. Rheumatoid arthritis can cause both local and systemic symptoms, which may lead to chronic fatigue and weakness and further impair mobility.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications are often recommended to relieve the pain and swelling of degenerative joint disorders so optimal mobility can be maintained. Obesity can put pressure on arthritic joints, so weight loss interventions should be implemented to further enhance mobility.
If mobility issues are affecting your loved one’s quality of life, consider adding a compassionate professional caregiver to your family’s caregiving team. When researching agencies that provide home care service, Richmond, VA, families are usually looking for flexible care plans, compassionate and highly trained caregivers, and 24/7 availability. Whether you need respite care to take a break from your caregiving duties or your senior loved one needs around-the-clock assistance at home, you can rely on Home Care Assistance. To hire a professionally trained caregiver for your loved one, call us at (804) 207-4746 today.