Mobility loss is an unfortunate reality for many people living with various health conditions, such as multiple sclerosis, motor neuron disease, muscular atrophy, and spinal cord injury.
Also, people living with breathing difficulties, fatigue, or chronic pain are more likely to struggle with impaired mobility, especially as an illness progresses.
If you find it hard to perform everyday tasks due to a health issue and moving from A to B feels like a challenge, you might need to look for solutions to make your life much easier.
Read about the top things to consider if you are starting to lose mobility.
Physiotherapy
If your mobility is declining, you must not hesitate to talk to your doctor about the issue to find a potential solution. If a doctor believes you would benefit from additional support, they will likely refer you to a physiotherapist who will show you the best exercises to improve your range of motion and help you maintain an active lifestyle.
Home Adaptations
Various home adaptations could support your mobility in the home and help you maintain an independent lifestyle. For instance, you could:
- Install handrails by the front and back doors of your home
- Turn your bathroom into a wet room
- Add an intercom system
- Introduce a fall detection system
- Install a ramp if you use a wheelchair
- Lower kitchen worktops
- Install a stairlift to travel up and down the stairs
The above home adaptations could simplify everyday tasks in the home, which will reduce your reliance on others.
Transportation
Mobility loss can affect many aspects of your life, such as your ability to perform routine tasks or drive a vehicle. Yet, mobility loss doesn’t mean you need to give up a car altogether, as you can choose from many vehicles to make your life much easier.
For example, you can buy or hire a wheelchair-accessible vehicle from alliedmobility.com, such as a car, minibus conversion, or a multi-purpose vehicle. It will allow you to travel to a store, work, a loved one’s home, or various medical appointments without stress.
Mobility Aids
A doctor or physiotherapist may recommend using various mobility aids if you struggle to walk or complete routine tasks, which you would be wise to consider. A cane, walker, wheelchair, or mobility scooter could be the difference between isolation and a lack of independence or an active, more independent lifestyle.
There is no reason to feel ashamed about using one or more mobility aids, as millions of people across the world rely on them daily. They could change your life and allow you to enjoy more physical freedom for many years to come.
Your Lifestyle Choices
Your lifestyle choices may affect your mobility. For example, carrying excess weight could place greater pressure on your joints when your mobility is already declining, which can add to your pain and discomfort. If so, you may need to adjust your lifestyle to improve your mobility, such as following a healthier diet and working out regularly.
