It’s no secret that as we get older, we get a little less steady on our feet. We lose some of our strength and some of our balance and naturally, there is the potential that this can lead to injury. Our elderly are faced with a number of mobility issues that range from having difficulties getting out of bed to falling. Falling, it should be noted, is considered the number one mobility issue faced by our older generation.
How can you help a loved one who is enduring a mobility issue?
It should probably be stated that patience is an important component of any type of support. While your father, mother, grandfather or grandmother may appear as if he/she can perform simple tasks like getting out of a chair, it’s not always so easy for him/her. It’s important to exercise patience so as to not add a degree of added tension to any household environment.
Secondly, you’ll want to be gentle not just in demeanour, but in your physical assistance. A helpful holding of your loved one’s arm in an effort to support his/her balance may actually be painful. Keep in mind that muscle weakness, joint problems, resurfacing injuries, disease, diminished brain function, nervous system issues and other neurological difficulties may all be at play. Always exercise caution.
Let’s say, for example, your elderly loved one has fallen to the ground. The sensitive method you use to help for him/her to get up is of paramount importance. It’s necessary, of course, to protect both your loved one and yourself while you are helping. The last thing you want is to injure either of you in the process. Be sure to lift him or her up with your arms by bending your legs do not use your back muscles to lift anyone up off the ground.
In some cases, you may not be able to comfortably lift your loved one all the way to his/her feet. If you can help the person get on all fours, he/she may then be able to get to one knee. From this position, you will be able to better assist your loved one with getting to his/her feet or to a seated position. Of course, if this still cannot be performed safely, it’s best to call for additional assistance. Again, you don’t want to risk further injury to anyone involved.
Why is falling such a danger for the elderly?
Well, as you can imagine, falls quite often result in injuries for our older folks. Bruises, cuts and broken and fractured bones can occur. An obvious worst-case scenario is a death resulting from a serious fall. Naturally, you’ll want to avoid this at all costs. This is why, in many cases, it’s best for your elderly loved ones to get the assistance of a walker or wheelchair.
At Advantage Home Health Solutions, we are steadfastly committed to helping those with mobility issues find safe and comfortable solutions. We believe that no one should be limited in what they wish to do. There is always assistance available. It’s just important to find the ideal solution for each specific disability.
If you have any questions about the mobility devices and home accessibility options that Advantage Home Health Solutions has to offer, please don’t hesitate to contact us to ask them. Give us a call at 403-460-5438. You may also email us by filling out the form on our Contact Page!