The Importance of Enhancing Mobility in Assisted Living

Why is Mobility Important for Senior Wellness?

Mobility is your loved one’s ability to navigate their environment, whether they’re walking, standing, sitting or getting in and out of bed. It’s essential for their quality of life as it directly impacts their physical health and emotional well-being. Muscle mass and strength decrease with age, which can make it difficult for your loved one to bear weight and move safely. Joint issues, arthritis, chronic conditions, loss of balance and vision impairments can also negatively affect their mobility. That reduction in daily motion can result in further decline.

Key Areas for Mobility Enhancements

Living areas: Keep walkways in their living room, hallways and bedroom clear of clutter and loose rugs. Ensure there’s enough lighting so they can see where they’re going. Keep essential items within easy reach and add grab bars for extra support.

Bathroom: Installing grab bars near the toilet and sink offers stability during transfers. You can add non-slip mats and textured flooring in and around showers and bathtubs for traction on slippery surfaces. Shower seats can make bathing easier and more comfortable, too.

Kitchen: If your loved one has a kitchenette in their apartment, keep appliances and ingredients within reach so they don’t have to bend or stretch. You can add stacked shelves and lazy Susans to make it easier to access food and kitchenware, too.

Entrances: Using ramps is an easy way to convert steps and accommodate walkers and wheelchairs. Place handrails on both sides of entryways to provide balance and support.

Incorporating Assistive Devices in Mobility Design

Walkers: If your loved one struggles with maintaining their balance, a walker can provide steady support and reduce their risk of falls.

Wheelchairs: A wheelchair takes the stress off your loved one’s joints and allows for continuous, comfortable movement. That allows them to navigate easily and participate in daily activities.

Adjustable furniture: Ergonomic chairs and adjustable beds make it easier for your senior to transition from sitting or lying down to standing. Those devices support posture and make daily movement less exhausting.

Smart technology: Motion-activated lights eliminate the need to search for switches and lamps. Emergency alert systems and fall detection technology allow your loved one to summon care staff without additional movement.

Exercise aids: Stretching tools, resistance bands and stability belts can help your senior participate in physical activity and enhance their strength.

How Assisted Living Supports Mobility in Seniors

Accessibility features in assisted living can help your senior maintain their motor functions, allowing them to live comfortably and engage with others. The staff also play a crucial role in conducting thorough assessments to ensure your loved one gets the clinical and personal support they need to live comfortably.

They will conduct an initial evaluation that includes reviewing your senior’s walking ability, gait, endurance and strength to establish a baseline for safety modifications. Follow-up assessments are also common to verify that appropriate changes are made. They provide a personalized mobility plan that covers assistive devices, recommended activities and environmental adjustments that will enhance independence. Their efforts allow you and your loved one to focus on making them at home in their new space. That provides them with a personalized living experience.

Benefits of Mobility in Assisted Living

Improved safety: Access to essential support devices and layout accommodations simplifies the safety process. Assisted living staff also conduct periodic assessments to determine if your loved one requires further mobility support.

Confidence: Being able to move safely can help your senior feel comfortable in their skin and enjoy a sense of confidence. They won’t have to worry about how they’re going to get to breakfast or if they’ll be able to participate in the afternoon activity.

Peace of mind: You can rest easy knowing your loved one’s fall risks are being managed, which can provide you with a sense of reassurance when you’re away. Mobility enhancements can also help your senior relax, knowing they have easy access to essential care.

Assisted Living Facilities at Embassy Healthcare

Finding the right assisted living community can be overwhelming. The dedicated team at Embassy Healthcare is committed to simplifying the process so you and your senior can focus on what’s most important – their comfort. Learn about our assisted living locations and contact us to schedule a tour.