For most of us, when we’re sick, we don’t feel like moving. We would much rather stay in bed until whatever it is that is ailing us has gone for good. However, when certain medical conditions arise, there really isn’t any “riding it out” period. Especially for older adults, certain ailments are meant to be managed for the long haul.
Unquestionably, we don’t want to stay inactive for good. Maintaining mobility is crucial for older adults. Not only do they wish to stay independent and active, but they want to simply enjoy life. It is a major burden, of course, when medical conditions affect an older person’s ability to move freely. So which medical conditions most significantly impact senior mobility?
Arthritis.
This list isn’t in alphabetical order. Nevertheless, you shouldn’t be surprised to see arthritis topping it. This common condition affects the joints, often causing a lot of pain, stiffness and swelling. As you can imagine, seniors who have arthritis often find it difficult to walk, climb stairs or perform daily tasks. Osteoarthritis is a particular problem. It’s the most common form of arthritis in seniors, occurring when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wears down over time.
Noting that osteoarthritis impacts an estimated 4 million Canadians, Ontario’s CareHop Nursing & Home Care explains that the pain and limited mobility caused by osteoarthritis can make Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) very challenging. We’re talking about bathing, dressing, grooming, preparing meals and taking medication. “Not keeping up with ADLs can affect the person’s mental and physical well-being,” adds their website.
Osteoporosis.
Not to be confused with osteoarthritis, osteoporosis is a bone disease. Defined as a change in bone strength and structure, this condition develops when bone mineral density and bone mass decreases. The reduction of bone strength significantly grows the risk of broken and fractured bones. Seniors who suffer from osteoporosis notice a difference in how they look. They may actually experience height loss or a stooped posture. Their hips, spine and wrists or susceptible to fractures and, of course, their mobility is impacted, making falls more likely.
Osteoporosis Canada refers to osteoporosis as the “silent thief” because bone loss occurs without symptoms unless one has fractured. “Osteoporosis can result in disfigurement, lowered self-esteem, reduction or loss of mobility, and decreased independence,” informs their website. It also reveals that more than 80 percent of all fractures in people aged 50 or older are caused by osteoporosis.
Parkinson’s Disease.
Edmonton-born Michael J. Fox is one of Canada’s national treasures. Known for his roles as Alex P. Keaton in the hit sitcom “Family Ties” and certainly as Marty McFly in the amazing Back To The Future trilogy, Fox is also arguably the world’s most popular Parkinson’s Disease sufferer. His condition prompted his retirement from acting. However, Fox has worked tirelessly to make the world more familiar with his progressive neurological disorder, founding the Michael J. Fox Foundation.
Thanks, in part to Fox’s efforts, Parkinson’s Disease is well known as a condition that affects movement. It can cause tremors, stiffness and difficulty with balance and coordination. Also, as Fox humorously put on display in an episode of “Curb Your Enthusiasm”, Parkinson’s Disease creates uncontrollable shaking. With the progression of the disease, mobility gets increasingly challenging. It can affect a person’s ability to walk and perform daily activities.
In addition to making it difficult to walk, Parkinson’s Disease can also cause a sufferer to freeze still. “Some people experience ‘freezing,’ the temporary, involuntary inability to move,” informs the Parkinson’s Foundation, “This can occur at any time, though it tends to occur when initiating a step, turning or navigating through doorways. It can be a serious problem, as it may increase risk of falling.”
Stroke.
We’ve all heard the term “heart attack” many times over. A stroke is sometimes referred to as a “brain attack”. It occurs when something blocks the blood supply to a part of the brain. This deprives the brain tissue of both oxygen and nutrients. A stroke can also occur when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. In either case, parts of the brain become damaged or die. Depending on the severity and location of the stroke, it can result in mobility issues. They include weakness or paralysis on one side of the body, coordination problems and difficulty walking.
“Stroke can affect muscles in your arms, legs, hands and feet,” adds the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, “After a stroke, the muscles may become limp and feel heavy (flaccid or low tone). In the weeks or months after a stroke, the muscles may shorten and become very tight, making them more difficult to move. This is called spasticity (high-tone).”
Diabetes.
Diabetes occurs either when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood glucose. You know the name. You’re likely aware of its connection to diet. But do you know how this chronic disease can impact mobility?
Diabetes impacts mobility because it can lead to nerve damage and circulation problems. This affects the legs and feet, causing weakness, pain and numbness. Of course, this makes walking and maintaining balance difficult, especially for older folks.
How can mobility scooters assist seniors with mobility limitations?
Mobility plays an important role in everyone’s life. The ability to move independently contributes to your overall well-being and emotional health. In Calgary, mobility scooters are an ideal solution if you struggle to walk long distances. Some mobility scooters are even small and nimble enough for indoor use. Now would be a great time to invest in a mobility scooter as Advantage Home Health Solutions is offering a special promotion until Friday, May 31st!
Our team always ensures that you have the complete picture to make an informed decision. You’ll know all of the possible options so you can choose which solution is best for you. For any questions about our current electric mobility scooters and travel power chairs campaign, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 403-460-5438. You may also email us by filling out the form on our Contact page!
