5 ways to help an elderly family member walk again

It’s common for people to lose mobility as they age, yet this doesn’t make it any less challenging when it happens to a family member.

When the simple act of walking becomes a hurdle, it impacts more than just physical health; it reduces quality of life and impacts wellbeing.

However, there are things you can do to help an elderly family member slowly regain strength and the ability to walk.

From the latest in physiotherapy techniques and nutritional advice to creating a safer living environment, Millercare is here to help you through this time.

Understanding the Cause

There are many causes of mobility loss in older adults. Some of the most common reasons include:

Arthritis: This causes pain and inflammation in the joints, making any type of movement difficult.
Stroke: Strokes can lead to partial paralysis or muscle weakness, mainly on one side of the body. This affects balance, making walking harder.
Fractures from falls: Besides injury, falls can diminish an older person's confidence in walking, further reducing mobility.
Neuropathy: This causes a loss of sensation in the feet, affecting balance and coordination.

Professional Support

There are a range of specialists who can offer help and support to accelerate the recovery process. Professional knowledge and support play a vital role in increasing an older person's health and quality of life.

Physiotherapists: Specialising in movement and function, these can help with improving balance, strengthening muscles, and increasing flexibility.
Occupational therapists: This focuses on independence. An occupational therapist will examine the living environment for risk factors and recommend home modifications.
Podiatrists: Podiatrists focus on foot health, treating conditions related to the feet and ankles. They can recommend special footwear to aid with walking.
Geriatricians: These specialists focus on the care of older patients. They can create a care plan, manage medication, and address underlying health issues.
Psychologists: Losing your mobility can greatly impact your mental health. Psychologists can provide emotional support, helping you overcome fears, anxiety, and frustration.

Home Safety Modifications

Home modifications can increase accessibility in the home, adding ease back into their daily routine. When you live in an environment that’s easy to navigate, it encourages you to engage in activity.

Remove any tripping hazards, such as rugs and electrical cords, and place grab bars around the home. Install them in critical areas such as the bathroom, bedroom, and kitchen.

Bath mats with grips are a great way to reduce the risk of falls after showering or bathing. For those who live in two-story houses, stairlifts can make it easier to navigate the home.

Encouraging Exercise

Gentle stretches and chair yoga are safe and easy ways to gradually increase strength and mobility, reducing the risk of injury or strain.

Light weights and resistance bands work the muscles around the core, legs, and ankles. As mobility improves, practice walking short distances with your family member in a safe environment to increase strength and confidence.

Assistive devices like canes, rollators, and walking frames are ideal for enhancing safety when walking outdoors or around the home. With easy-grip handles and built-in seats, customers are fully protected and supported at all times.

Nutrition and Health

Proper nutrition not only fuels the body for exercise but it also plays a crucial role in healing, muscle strength, and overall well-being.

Protein, vitamin D, and calcium are essential for a healthy diet. This increases bone health and muscle strength. Daily hydration is also vital for cardiovascular health, increasing stamina and bodily function.

Adaptive plates and cutlery make eating easier for those with limited mobility. Elderly-friendly food preparation products can also make the cooking process more enjoyable, encouraging a healthy eating and drinking routine.

Emotional Support

Fear and anxiety may be a driving factor for the decrease in mobility of your elderly family member.

Offer support by listening to their concerns, fears, and frustrations without rushing to offer solutions. To encourage them to face their fears, place them in social situations where they can speak to family members, friends, or medical specialists.

Set realistic goals that they can work toward to foster self-confidence.

Invest in Reliable Walking Aids with Millercare

At Millercare, we believe that everyone should have access to reliable and affordable mobility aids.

Our walking aids are tailored to help those with limited mobility, restoring their independence and encouraging time outdoors. Designed with durable materials, easy-move wheels, and easy-grip handles, our products are built to last.