Mobility Assistance

 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: 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: 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: 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: 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: 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:  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.