At some point, most of us will become burdened with caring for a loved one who needs support around the home. Caring for a loved one can include everything from assisted bathtubs to walk-in showers, mobility scooters to stairlifts, hoists to wheelchairs. So how do you know if your loved one needs mobility assistance? In this article, we’ll discuss five signs to look for if your loved one needs mobility assistance in the home and how these can be addressed.
1. Difficulty with Daily Activities
Struggling with Routine Tasks
Another clue that it’s time to consider mobility assistance for your loved one is noticeable trouble performing simple daily activities, such as getting in and out of bed, going to the bathroom, dressing, and moving around the house. This might be because your loved one has to rely on assistance from others more frequently than normal, or else is getting frustrated at how rarely he or she can accomplish these everyday tasks entirely on their own.
Solutions and Options
There are several ways to address these challenges:
- Grab Bars and Handrails: Install grab bars in the bathroom and handrails along the hallway and stairs.
- Reclining and Adaptable Beds: This can assist you in getting in and out of bed.
- Cane or walker – These are great for extra stability while walking, and you can find one that’s easily adjustable for your loved one’s needs.
2. Increased Risk of Falls
Frequent Falls or Near-Falls
If your relative has suffered repeated falls or even near-falls it must surely mean that all is not well in the mobility department. Even if your relative hasn’t fallen, if he or she is wobbly or often losing his or her balance, then you need to take action as a matter of urgency to prevent a catastrophe.
Preventative Measures
To reduce the risk of falls, consider:
- Removing Clutter: Ensure walkways are clear of obstacles that could cause tripping.
- Non-Slip Mats and Rugs: Place these in high-risk areas like the bathroom and kitchen.
- Mobility Aids: Provide your relative with any needed mobility aids a walker with a seat can both stabilize and sit them and help them get situated.
3. Difficulty Navigating Stairs
Struggling with Stairs
If your loved one is having trouble going up or down steps, that is a very strong indication that their mobility needs are not being properly addressed. Stairs are a particular risk for patients who have a risk of loss of balance or for those with compromised strength.
Adapting the Home
Here are some solutions to make stairs more manageable:
- Stair Lifts: Install a stair lift to provide safe and easy access between floors.
- Stair Railings: Ensure that railings are securely installed and easy to grip.
- Home Modifications: If you have a two-story house, try moving the most important rooms to the ground (‘story’) floor so that you don’t have to use the stairs so much.
4. Signs of Physical Decline
Observable Changes in Physical Ability
Deterioration can be physical, such as muscle loss, lack of flexibility, and joint pain. If you notice that your parent’s physical abilities are deteriorating, take a moment to assess their need for mobility assistance. Are they able to stand for longer periods? Do they need a cane or some assistance when walking?
Assessment and Support
To support your loved one’s physical health:
- Talk or a physical therapist who will assess your mobility and recommend the right walker and/or wheelchair for your needs.
- Physical Therapy: Engage in physical therapy exercises to strengthen muscles and improve mobility.
- Ergonomic Furniture: Use furniture designed to provide support and make sitting and standing easier.
5. Emotional and Psychological Indicators
Mood Changes and Fearfulness
Mood swings and greater anxiety about leaving home can be signs of movement difficulties. If your loved one refuses to go for a walk or seems anxious about moving around the house, this could be a sign that physical functioning is in decline and more support is needed.
Addressing Emotional Well-being
To address these emotional and psychological indicators:
- Encourage Open Communication: Discuss their concerns and fears openly to better understand their needs.
- Provide Reassurance and Support: Offer emotional support and reassurance to help alleviate their fears.
- Get Social By attending activities, group classes, or joining clubs where they can receive praise and encouragement.
Implementing Mobility Assistance at Home
Now that you’ve identified some of the signals to look for when determining who needs homecare, below you’ll find some practical tips to address those needs:
- Consult the Professionals: If possible, enlisting the help of healthcare providers such as a doctor or occupational therapist to examine your loved one and assess their mobility needs can be beneficial.
- Hazard Assessment: Carefully review the home environment for potential hazards and make any necessary improvements to ensure a safe and accessible space.
- Mobility Aids: Recommend exploring mobility aids that your loved one may need, including walkers, canes, or wheelchairs.
- Consider Home Modifications: Make modifications to the home that can increase access, such as installing ramps, doorways that accommodate wheelchairs, or bathroom features to make it more accessible and safe.
- Continuing Challenge: Provide ongoing support to help your loved one maintain mobility and a full life.
Take a look at the person you’re thinking about. She shares her life with you. She’s shed her skin countless times in your presence. She’s shown you the most intimate parts of her body. And now she cannot walk without falling? Take note of the signs: she has become shaky and falls down a lot. She has begun to refuse steps and either takes the escalator or the altogether. Her store inventory has dwindled because walking is pain-ridden. For the first time in your life, your mom seems sad. Bath just once in the past 10 days long to get ready in, depression, vulnerability to accidents – these are. But recognizing the opportunity to take steps under your guidance, your loved one will be on a path toward independence and a healthy, stress-free life at home.
