>U Mom Knows Best: How To Help Senior Relatives Who Have Trouble Walking On Their Own

Sunday, November 6, 2022

How To Help Senior Relatives Who Have Trouble Walking On Their Own

 It can be difficult to know how to help elderly relatives who have trouble walking on their own. In some cases, they may need more assistance than you can provide. In other cases, they may not want or need your help. So, let's see a few tips for helping seniors who have difficulty walking.


Learn about the cause

 If your elderly relative is having trouble walking, the first thing you should do is talk to their doctor. There may be an underlying medical condition that is causing the problem, so once you know what the problem is, you can better determine how to help. Maybe your relative needs physical therapy to help them regain strength and mobility, or maybe they need ACL surgery. Whatever the case may be, you'll have a better idea of how to help once you know the cause.

 If your relative does not have a medical condition that is causing their difficulty walking, there are still things you can do to help. Maybe they just need some help getting around the house, or maybe they need someone to go on walks with them. Sometimes, these issues arise due to psychological issues such as Alzheimer's or dementia. In such cases, it is important to be patient and understanding with your loved one as they navigate their condition. With supportive memory care services and activities, you can help them maintain their independence as much as possible. Further, it can also be helpful to seek support from a therapist or support group for yourself as a caregiver.

Assist the house

 If your elderly relative is having difficulty walking, they may need some help getting around the house. This could mean helping them with chores, getting groceries for them, or even just providing company. If you're able to do this, it can help take some of the stress off of them. Even just spending an hour or two with them each week can make a big difference.

 Additionally, emotional assistance can be just as important as physical assistance. Sometimes, all your elderly relative needs are someone to talk to. They may be lonely and just need some companionship. If this is the case, make sure to set aside some time each week to visit with them and have a conversation. 

 Sometimes, relocating to a senior living community is the best way to provide your elderly relative with the support they need. These communities often offer services that cater specifically to seniors with mobility challenges, ensuring they have access to assistance when required. If they live in Wisconsin, finding a senior living community in Lake Mills could be a great option. Being part of a community also helps combat loneliness and fosters social connections, promoting overall well-being. It's important to discuss this option with your elderly relative and involve them in the decision-making process.

Make sure they're staying active

One of the best things you can do for an elderly relative who has difficulty walking is to make sure they're staying active. Walking is a great form of exercise, and it's important for seniors to get some exercise every day, and even if your relative can only walk a short distance, it's still beneficial for them to get out and move around. If they're not able to walk on their own, maybe you can push them in a wheelchair or help them walk with a walker.

 On the other hand, if your relative can walk on their own but they're having trouble getting around the house, you can help them by doing some simple exercises with them. Maybe you can help them walk up and down the stairs, or maybe you can help them do some range of motion exercises.

Encourage them to use assistive devices

 If your relative is having trouble walking, encourage them to use assistive devices such as canes or walkers. These devices can help take some of the weight off their legs and make it easier for them to get around. If they're reluctant to use these devices, try to find ones that are stylish and that they'll be proud to use.

 Additionally, you can also encourage your relative to use other assistive devices such as stair lifts or wheelchair ramps. These devices can make it much easier for them to get around the house and stay independent.

Make sure their home is safe

 Remove any tripping hazards such as throw rugs or cords, and make sure there are handrails on all the stairs. If your relative has trouble getting in and out of chairs, you can get them a raised toilet seat or a grab bar for the shower.

 Making sure their home is safe is one of the most important things you can do to help an elderly relative who has difficulty walking. By removing obstacles and making sure their home is accessible, you can help them stay safe and independent.


  On the outside, you can also make sure their yard is clear of debris and that their walkway is in good condition. You may even want to consider installing a ramp or some steps to make it easier for them to get in and out of their house.



 As you can see, there are many things you can do to help an elderly relative who has difficulty walking. You may need to provide physical assistance around the house or help them stay active by taking walks with them. Additionally, you can encourage them to use assistive devices such as canes or walkers, and make sure their home is safe and accessible.

By following these tips, you can help your relative stay healthy and independent.

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