Mobility: Managing Daily Tasks
Harvard Health Publications
Restoring or simply maintaining a person's ability to get around inside and outside of the home supports independence. It may make a change of scenery possible or put a light grocery shopping trip or a walk with friends back within reach. This can lift the person's spirits and take a weight off you, as well.
Begin by asking a doctor's advice about mobility. Ask whether better control of a medical condition or an exercise program might help. Discuss whether an assistive device such as a cane, walker, or wheelchair would be useful. So many types of devices are now available that the choices can seem bewildering. A doctor or occupational or physical therapist may be able to offer advice. Also, check with an insurance provider to see if these products are covered.
In addition, ask the doctor whether medications may be interfering with mobility. For example, are medications making the person feel dizzy or tired and thus unwilling to move around much? If so, could any changes be made? Finally, find out how a debilitating condition might progress so you can prepare for likely changes in mobility.
The following exercises can help an individual improve his or her balance. These exercises can be done anytime — every day of the week or just a few times a week.
Heel-to-Toe Walk
Position your heel just in front of the toes of the opposite foot as you take a step. Heel and toes should actually touch as you walk forward. If necessary, steady yourself by putting one hand on a counter as you walk at first and then work toward doing this without support.
Single Leg Stance
Stand on one foot for up to 30 seconds. Stop, and alternate feet. If necessary, hold onto the back of a chair or counter at first and then work toward doing this without support.
Source: from Caregiver’s Handbook, Harvard Health Publications, Copyright © 2007 by President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Used with permission of StayWell. Use of Content | Medical Disclaimer
Decor426
Apr 15, 2008 Suggest Removal
My mother was walking fine until her family physician did a bone density test and told her she had osteoparosis she is 74 years old. Now she walks stiffly and is frightened to walk on different surfaces, she is afraid she is going to fall, and she was told by a nurse that she could bleed easy because she is on Coumadin. Her cardiologist wants her to walk more and to use a walker everywhere. She has a walker and uses it and does walk away from it in the house. She has not fallen but I am afraid that her peranoid behavior will cause more problems with her legs if she doesn't move more. What doctor could help her with her legs and would physical therapy help?
AgingCare Editor
Apr 16, 2008 Suggest Removal
Sounds like your mom would benefit from some physical therapy, not only to regain strength she's lost from not walking, but also to regain her confidence in her ability to do so. Have you talked to the family physician who diagnosed her osteoporosis to see what he/she recommends to deal with your mother's reaction? You can also use this Doctor search tool to find a gerontologist in your area:
http://www.castleconnolly.com/doctors/index.cfm?source=acare
I have thought about calling her cardio or Family doctor to see if they will write a script for therapy. Also spoke to my Dad's therapist and that's what she recommended. Thanks for the advice.
One option is to reverse the swing of the door. It may be possible to change the swing out into the hall or the bedroom. This change will require a bit of handyman work and some paint, but could be a good option. Read full answer.
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