For those in their later years or with a physical disability, mobility can be a real issue that reduces the quality of life. To ensure that you step into 2014 with your best foot forward, here are 14 fantastic tips on how to improve your mobility.
1. Understand it
Before you can address any problems with your mobility, you must first understand what they are. There are a range of disorders or ailments which may make it more difficult for you to get around with arthritis perhaps the most common. Do your research and the conditions and learn what it means for you if you’re a suffered. You can learn more about arthritis and mobility problems here.
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2. Get active
In many if not all cases, remaining active is a great way to preserve the mobility you still have and alleviate the pain of certain disorders. Do what you can to get active but make sure it is tailored to your needs and individual situation by opting for low impact exercises, joining dedicated classes and speaking to your healthcare professional to set-up a proper plan.
3. Ask for help
There is no shame in asking for help so why not visit your GP and explain your predicament? Ask them for advice on how to increase your mobility and draw up a plan to help you achieve your goals.
4. Strengthen muscles
There are many ways to strengthen your muscles and simple exercises with light weights or items such as stress balls can be really beneficial. Take the time to complete strengthening exercises on a regular basis to help improve muscular strength and aid your mobility.
5. Update your home
If you find it difficult to get upstairs then make things easier for yourself by updating your home. A curved stairlift can fit even the most uniquely shaped staircases and ensure no part of your home is out of reach.
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6. Take care in the bathroom
Bathrooms are one of the most dangerous rooms in the home – especially for those with limited mobility. Take extra care here and give yourself a helping hand by investing in walk- in shower or bath units or even updating to a wet room.
7. Widen access points
If you use mobility aids to help you get around then make sure your house can accommodate them by widening access points. This means making doorways and corridors wider and free from clutter.
8. Keep everything within reach
Avoid the pain and embarrassment of struggling to get what you want in your own home by keeping everything within easy reach. This means bringing cupboards and units to an accessible height and not storing anything in hard-to-reach places or hideaways.
9. Get out and about
Don’t shut yourself off from the outside world but embrace it by going out and about regularly. Ramps at doorways instead of steps can help make it an easier process and a walking stick, frame or shopping trolley can help offer extra support on your journeys.
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10. Stay healthy
Eating healthily can boost your overall health and fitness levels, making it easier for you to increase your mobility. Certain foods are also good for building strength.
11. Take care of your mental health
Mobility problems are as much a physical ailment as they are an emotional one. Socialise regularly to help you stay feeling happy and content and don’t let your limited mobility imprison you in your own home.
12. Learn easy routes
If you find getting around difficult then make things easier for yourself by learning the best routes you can take. These should be the routes with minimal obstacles and not necessarily the quickest or shortest way of getting from A to B.
13. Research new destinations
If you’re planning a trip or holiday then research access options beforehand and ensure you’re prepared. Check how easy it is to get around and whether there are things like hills for you to get you to overcome.
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14. Pace yourself
Remember, this isn’t a race so pace yourself and take your time. If it takes you longer to get somewhere then don’t simple abandon the exercise but rather stick with it until completion. This will give you a great sense of satisfaction and stop your mobility issues from holding you back. You can always make the time go quicker by investing in a small music player to keep you company on your journeys. Packing a bottle or water and some light refreshments is also advised and makes a great treat for when you reach your destination!
