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How can you find out when your elderly loved ones start developing mobility issues before they fall? Falls can be quite serious for older adults. Their bones are not as strong as they used to be, and every fall can result in broken bones. There are some things the elderly can do to build stronger bones and prevent the muscle loss that comes with aging, but preventing falls should be their primary focus. Always think in advance. Check out the dangerous spots in the house and try to make them safer for seniors. Also, learn how to notice mobility issues in the elderly and react quickly. Spot these signs in time so seniors can overcome these difficulties and regain their balance.

Falling

All of us have stumbled on something and fallen. However, if your elderly adult falls for no reason, this may be a sign they are having mobility issues. Although these falls don’t happen often and they are harmless, take them to a doctor for a mobility evaluation.

One of the main reasons why seniors lose their balance is from the medications they use. Let doctors evaluate their prescriptions and see whether falls are a side effect. The more someone falls, the greater the risk of injury. Thus it is essential to react before they end up in a hospital with broken bones.

Standing and Sitting Issues

Is your senior having trouble standing up from a chair or bed? Is this simple task a huge problem for them? Difficulty when getting up from a bed is a clear sign they are having mobility issues. If they cannot get up on their own, but need to grab a chair or anything else, consider taking them to a doctor for evaluation. Problems when lowering onto a bed are also an indicator that something is not right.

Do they feel dizzy every time they get up? This can be due to a sudden change in blood pressure, and it is one of the common causes of falls in the elderly. Ask a doctor how to avoid these issues and prevent nasty falls.

Balance Problems

Dizziness causes balance problems. A sudden change in blood pressure is one of the main reasons, but also dizziness can be caused due to medication side effects. Poor eyesight and muscle weakness are also causes of balance issues. Problems with standing and walking are indicators that seniors need to do something to regain their balance and prevent falls.

signs of mobility issues in the elderly

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Staircase Issues

Stairs become more and more difficult as we get older. Going up and down requires additional strength and energy, along with extra focus. Many prefer the elevator to stairs, and you shouldn’t be worried if your loved one uses the elevator every time. However, once you notice they struggle with stairs, it is obvious their mobility is being limited. Ask them whether they need a cane or any other mobility aid for using the stairs. They may refuse it in the beginning, but they will figure out it is much easier with a cane.

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Avoiding Exercise

Did your loved one previously exercise regularly and now they have stopped and gained extra weight? Skipping exercise can be a sign they are too exhausted and lack energy. Being physically active is important for their mobility. The less active you are, the more difficulty with walking and standing you will have. Talk to your elderly adult and determine the reason why they stopped exercising and what impact that will have on their life.

These are the main signs of mobility issues in the elderly which you shouldn’t neglect. Once you notice these signs, react as soon as possible and do everything in your power to prevent potential falls. Have in mind that every fall in the elderly can cause serious injuries, so help your loved ones to stay on their feet.

 

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