6 Health Conditions that Can Cause Seniors to Have Reduced Mobility

According to the Government of Canada website, there were just over 6 million Canadians 65 and older in 2014. This number is expected to exceed 10 million by 2030. A common issue faced by adults in this age group is limited mobility, which can be caused by certain underlying health issues. Today, we’re going to discuss six of the most common ones.

1. Osteoporosis

Characterized by bones that are weaker and less dense, osteoporosis is a bone disease that’s common among older adults. When bones lose strength, seniors are more susceptible to bone breaks and fractures if they fall. In turn, damage from fractures can contribute to long-term issues with mobility. Older adults can reduce their risk of developing this condition by:

• Getting regular exercise that includes resistance and weight-bearing exercises
• Losing excess weight
• Limiting alcohol consumption
• Enjoying a diet that includes low-fat dairy products, leafy green veggies, and other bone-friendly foods

2. Cardiovascular Conditions

Heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions have the potential to affect mobility by limiting the delivery of oxygen throughout the body. What this can do is cause dizziness or make it difficult to walk without experiencing shortness of breath. Medication and lifestyle changes involving diet and exercise can be helpful.

3. Neurological Disorders

There are many conditions that affect the nervous system, and anything that alters how nerves function has the potential to affect coordination and balance and impact mobility. Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and stroke are the neurological disorders that tend to affect seniors and their mobility the most.

Recovering from a stroke, managing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s, and a variety of other health-related situations can make it difficult for a senior to continue living at home without someone there to help. Surrey live-in care professionals are trained to help seniors who need 24/7 assistance. With the help of a live-in caregiver, your elderly loved one can maintain a higher quality of life while aging in place.

4. Obesity

The Government of Canada’s website cites data suggesting a significant portion of the nation’s senior population is overweight or obese. Obesity can limit mobility in older adults because the extra weight puts more stress on bones, joints, and supporting muscles. Seniors looking to shed excess pounds are typically advised to do so gradually by adopting healthy diet and exercise habits.

A home caregiver can help your loved one prepare nutritious meals and exercise safely. Surrey senior care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.

5. Arthritis

According to the Arthritis Society, nearly 1 in 2 seniors in Canada has arthritis. The most common form of arthritis in seniors is osteoarthritis (OA), a condition that affects cartilage, which is the material on the ends of joints that minimizes friction during normal movements. Often resulting in painful swelling (inflammation), arthritis typically affects hips and knees in older adults, which is why it often limits mobility. Arthritis isn’t a reversible condition, but it may be managed or slowed by a routine that involves:

• Taking anti-inflammatory medication
• Performing therapeutic exercises to strengthen supporting muscles, ligaments, and tendons
• Eating berries, whole grains, and other foods that naturally reduce inflammation
• Engaging in low-impact forms of exercise

6. Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative disc disease is the collective term for the type of age-related disc wear that often affects older adults. Mobility can be affected if worn or damaged spinal discs contribute to pain that’s affected by movement. Disc-related issues are often manageable with medication, physical therapy, or, if other efforts fail, minimally invasive surgery.

Families looking for top-rated elderly home care providers can reach out to TheKey. From respite care to specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care, there are many ways we can make life easier for seniors and their loved ones. TheKey can be your trusted partner when your loved one needs help with the challenges of aging.