The world is moving very fast, and it can be challenging for people with mobility issues to keep up. Several reasons may contribute to an individual having mobility challenges. The most common are amputations, chronic muscular conditions, injuries, or aging. Although it may be tasking to take care of an individual with mobility challenges, we can learn how to take care of our loved ones with such conditions.
Mobility Aids
A patient’s situation or condition will determine the type of aid they will use. Therapists are the best individuals to assess the needs of a patient under the recommendations of a doctor. Some of the most common solutions are using a walker, wheelchair, or cane to move from one place to another. However, it is essential to learn how to maintain your wheelchair and other aids to increase their service life. On the other hand, the house can be more comfortable for patients if they have boards to help them get in and out of bed, have raisers for the couch, and use swivel cushions in seats.
Modify the House
Another way to take care of loved ones with mobility problems is to modify the house and adapt to them. The main objective is to ensure that patients can be independent and not depend on another person for their movement. It is also essential to provide safety as a person moves from one point to another, especially when moving up and down the staircases.
Increasing the safety indoors includes;
- Furniture arrangements that make it easy to move around the house.
- De-cluttering the rooms and eliminating sliding carpets.
- Illuminate the dark spaces using artificial lights.
- Make the corridors and walkways wide to accommodate mobility aids.
- Install bars that patients can grab while using the bathroom and toilet.
- Have safety bars on the staircases and make them less steep for ease to climb.
- Store items near to where they can reach with minimal strain.
Assist in Physical Exercises
Medical practitioners will recommend exercises for a patient with mobility problems. It aids them in improving their conditions and attains recovery. Although they will probably be attending therapy sessions at the hospital, it is crucial to learn how you can assist your loved one do the activities. However, it is essential to have a therapist show you the ideal and safe way of doing it.
Emotional support
It can be depressing for a patient to deal with mobility conditions. Be sensitive to what a patient tells you by knowing what to say and your body language. Moral support and encouragement go a long way to aiding a patient’s recovery.
Have a Routine
Learn how to take care of a patient’s daily needs. When using a caregiver, it is critical to give them a routine that highlights what needs to be done and what time. Also, prepare them for the challenges of handling such a patient.
Conclusion
Always ask if a person with mobility problems needs your assistance. Please do not jump in to assist without enquiring first. It will probably come out insensitive, even if your motives were right.
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