Mobility is so important for seniors interested in keeping their independence. The more you are able to move around, the better your ability to care for yourself with minimal assistance. Even the most basic daily activities can become impossible if you lose your mobility. Today, the home care experts at Phoenix Home Care would like to share a few activities you or your loved one can do to maintain mobility.
Activity Is Key to Mobility
The single most important thing you can do to retain your mobility as you age is to stay active. How you do that is up to you. Some people prefer to take a walk around their neighborhood each morning, while others take an afternoon swim at their local gym each day. Whatever it is that you like to do, it is important to get out and move. Walk around the grocery store while you shop, even if you have to move slowly — it’s a great opportunity to keep your muscles and joints healthy.
Balance Exercises
As we age, our ability to maintain our balance becomes more difficult. Seniors over the age of 70 should begin to work on their balance if they don’t currently participate in a fitness program.
Practice balancing on one leg at a time, while keeping a hand on a wall or chair to stabilize yourself. Simply raise one leg a few inches off the floor pointed directly in front of you and try to stay on a single leg for 15-second increments.
Next, stand behind a chair and slowly lift one leg behind you. Keep your leg straight and point your toe, then hold for 15 seconds. Repeat and alternate ten times per leg.
You can also practice walking heel to toe. Put your right heel directly in front of your left toe, and then your left toe directly in front of your right heel. Imagine you are walking on a tight rope, heel to toe. This helps to simulate off-balance steps and trains your body to better correct if you feel off balance.
Contact Phoenix Home Care in Independence Today
At Phoenix Home Care in Independence, Missouri, we have trained and certified caregivers available to provide you with the assistance you need to remain at home for as long as possible. Whether through physical training, or simply providing help around the house, Phoenix Home Care is here to give you the assistance you need to stay in your home.
