4 Ways to Improve Mobility for Elderly Adults

‍Aging means experiencing a variety of physical changes in the body, including reduced strength and balance, which can make it hard to complete the same daily routines without the risk of injury. Issues with mobility are one of the top reasons elderly adults will transition to assisted living or nursing home facilities.

However, it is possible to enjoy more years in the comfort of home by focusing on preserving and restoring mobility with some key habits, along with a little help from an in-home care provider.

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the best strategies for boosting mobility, so you or your elderly loved one can remain more independent at home.

Why Mobility Is So Important for Older Adults

Falls are the leading cause of emergency room visits among older adults. More than 25% of adults over age 65 experience a fall annually, and in older adults, falls are much more likely to lead to severe injuries like hip fractures, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), and other potentially fatal injuries. When it comes to falls, prevention is the best strategy, and prevention starts with emphasizing mobility.

Strategies for Improving Mobility at Any Age

Maintaining physical fitness looks different for older adults. Instead of hard cardio and heavy lifting, workout routines should focus on consistent, low-impact movement, flexibility, and resistance training to maintain muscle mass.

In addition to remaining active, older adults also need to think about maintaining good nutrition and utilizing safety devices to minimize the risk of falls at home.

‍● Get Consistent Daily Activity – One of the most effective ways to maintain and improve mobility is by getting daily movement to keep the body active.

Walking is an accessible, low-impact form of exercise that can be done daily, but if walking isn’t possible due to existing mobility issues or poor weather outside during the winter or hotter days of summer, utilizing a treadmill or stationary bike can be an effective way to get some daily exercise.

Swimming and water aerobics are also great types of exercise for seniors because being in the water reduces stress on the joints and can allow for a greater range of motion to strengthen the muscles and improve flexibility.

‍● Incorporate Stretches and Mobility Exercises – Along with consistent daily movement to maintain stamina and strength, seniors should utilize targeted stretches, strengthening exercises, and mobility exercises.

Seated yoga can be a great way to introduce more targeted movements into a daily fitness routine without overexerting the body or risking falls. Other seated exercises to try out include leg lifts, torso twists, ankle circles, and hamstring stretches.

Strength exercises should target different muscle groups each day to allow muscles plenty of time to recover and heal between workout sessions.

● Eat a Balanced Diet – Maintaining a healthy weight is key for preserving mobility as you get older. However, it can be more difficult to manage your weight as you get older because metabolism slows down with age.

Focusing on a balanced, nutrient-dense diet can help limit weight gain and preserve muscle strength and recovery.

Eating more whole foods including joint-healthy options like fatty fish, leafy greens, fresh berries, whole grains, and bone broth can boost satiety and reduce junk food cravings, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight.

● Utilize Mobility Aids Around the House – While staying active and following a healthy diet will help to keep the body stronger and improve mobility, seniors may still need help from assistive devices and safety features used throughout the home.

Ambulatory aids like canes and walkers can promote more daily movement for adults who have difficulty with balance or experienced fall-related injuries in the past.

Grab bars and railings can aid in getting up from a seated position and navigating around the home, and reachers or grabbers may help to access hard-to-reach items without bending over or stretching.

Non-slip mats are also helpful in areas like entryways, kitchens, and bathrooms where floors may become wet and slippery. 

How In-Home Care Can Make It Easier to Stay Active

For seniors who have already experienced a decline in their strength and mobility, it can be difficult to know where to start when building a fitness routine.

Having the guidance of an in-home care provider can ensure that you are focusing on the right habits to improve your balance and strength and that you have motivation and support to remain consistent in your routine.

Home care providers can also make personalized recommendations for home safety devices and mobility aids.

Remaining independent at home can allow you or your elderly loved one to enjoy a much higher quality of life, but a helping hand may be needed to ensure safety and peace of mind.

New Outlook Home Care can provide a customized care plan to suit your needs, which may include nursing services, housekeeping, companionship, and personal care assistance. Contact us to learn more about our in-home care services for seniors in Redmond and Medford, OR.

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