Do you have aging parents who are starting to experience limited mobility? This can be a tough transition for them, and it’s important to help them stay independent and mobile. Check our handy tips on how you can keep your seniors with limited mobility active. Follow these simple tips, and you’ll see a big improvement in their quality of life.
Why Is It Important to Keep Seniors Active?
As we age, it’s important to keep our bodies active. This helps us maintain our muscle mass, flexibility, balance, and coordination. Staying active reduces stress and anxiety levels. For senior citizens with limited mobility, staying active can help them maintain their independence. The elderly who uses aid vehicles like a power chair with elevating seat should keep a little stretch as much as possible.
7 Activities for Seniors with Limited Mobility
1. Exercising
Exercise is an ace way to stay active for the elderly. Many exercises for seniors with limited mobility can be done from the comfort of their homes. Check out this list of exercises for seniors with limited mobility.
- Yoga. Yoga is a great way to improve flexibility and balance. There are many yoga classes available online or at your local community center. Don’t forget your yoga towel.
- Chair Exercises. Chair exercises are another great way for seniors to stay active. These efficient exercises can be done while sitting in a chair or standing up against a wall for support.
- Walking. Walking is a low-impact activity ideal for seniors with limited mobility. They should start by walking around their neighborhood or going for short walks around the block. As they get more comfortable, they can increase the distance of their walks.
- Swimming. Swimming is a great way for seniors to get some exercise without putting too much strain on their bodies. There are many pools that offer special times for seniors to swim.
These are just a few ideas to help seniors with limited mobility stay active. For more information, please consult your parent’s doctor or physical therapist. They will be able to create a custom plan that is perfect for the elderly.
2. Reading Together
If your loved one has trouble reading, offer to read together. This can be a great bonding experience, and you can help them with anything they might not understand. You can also look for books on tape or audiobooks so they can listen while you do something else.
There are many ways to keep seniors with limited mobility active. With a little creativity and effort, your loved ones can stay healthy and independent.
3. Spend Time Outdoors
Fresh air and sunshine can positively affect your parents’ mood and overall health. If your loved one is able, spend time together outdoors. Go for a walk, sit on a park bench, or just enjoy the fresh air.
Seniors with limited mobility often have trouble getting around. This issue can be frustrating and lead to a sedentary lifestyle. Spending time outdoors is beneficial for everyone, but it’s especially important for the elderly.
There are many ways to get fresh air and sunshine, even if your loved one can’t walk. For example, you can:
- push them in a wheelchair;
- take them for a drive;
- sit in the backyard or on the porch together.
Outdoor activities are a great way to improve mood and overall health. If your loved one is able, spend time together outdoors enjoying the fresh air and sunshine. Even if they can’t walk, there are still ways to get outside and enjoy nature together.
4. Eating Out
Eating out can be a social event. This is a top-notch chance to catch up with friends or family and enjoy a good meal. Find a place that has a senior-friendly menu and is accessible for a wheelchair. Look for a restaurant that offers live music to add to the atmosphere.
If your aging parent can’t get out to eat, consider bringing the restaurant to them. Ordering in is just as delicious and can be done from the comfort of home.
5. Playing Games
One great way to help keep seniors with limited mobility active is by playing games with them. Games are not only a fun way to pass the time, but they can also help improve mental sharpness and coordination. There’s a myriad of games for seniors that can be played while seated or standing. They include card games, dice games, word games, and more. There’s sure to be something that your aging parents will enjoy.
6. Finding a New Hobby
Keep seniors with limited mobility active by encouraging them to find a new hobby. From painting and sculpture to knitting and gardening, there are endless possibilities.
7. Family Gathering
Keep seniors with limited mobility active by bringing the family together. Family gatherings are a great opportunity for your aging parents to socialize and stay connected. Whether it’s a weekly dinner or a monthly game night, spending time with relatives keeps seniors engaged.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Help the Elderly with Poor Mobility?
There are many ways you can help elderly loved ones with poor mobility. Start by incorporating some of the activities listed above into their daily routine. You can also help by:
- making sure their home is safe and easy to move around in;
- helping them with grocery shopping and other errands;
- taking them to doctor’s appointments and therapy sessions;
- providing emotional support as they adjust to their changing mobility.
How Often Should My Aging Parents Go Outside?
Try to encourage your aging parents to go outside at least once a day, even if it’s just for a short walk around the block. The sun and fresh air will do the rest. Additionally, being outdoors can help reduce anxiety and depression.
So, how often should my aging parents go outside? Ideally, every day. However, depending on their health and mobility, that may not always be possible. If they’re unable to get out every day, aim for several times per week.
How Can I Improve My Own Mobility?
If you’re concerned about your own mobility, there are several things you can do to improve it. Start by exercising regularly and stretching daily. Consult your doctor about ways to improve your flexibility and strength. Additionally, be sure to stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet to maintain your energy levels. Finally, make sure you’re getting enough sleep so that your body can recover from daily activities.
By following these handy tips, you’re able to help yourself, and your parents maintain mobility and independence. It’s never too late to take up making changes to improve your health.
Conclusion
Keep your loved parents engaged in a range of activities to keep their minds and bodies active. Aging doesn’t have to mean a regress in health and mobility. With a little effort, you can help the elderly stay mobile and independent. Try some of the tips above to get started.