In early adulthood, most people are at their peak fitness. Around these decades, it is common to take part in a range of high-intensity sports and exercises, such as football or gym sessions regularly. Taking regular exercise has a range of health benefits and is something that all age groups should consider as part of a healthy lifestyle. However, as people age and enter the later stages of life, this may not be as feasible. Elderly people may start to develop health problems that can reduce the intensity and regularity of the exercise in which they can partake. In addition, as people grow old, there may be other considerations that are important to take into account to ensure that senior citizens continue to live life to the full, whilst remaining safe. This article explains three factors to consider in the health and well-being of your elderly relatives.
Mobility Needs
For many elderly people, mobility levels may start to decline in later life. This can be a direct result of partaking in fewer physical activities and moving around less. When mobility levels decline over a prolonged period, it can lead to a loss of bone density and wastage of muscles in the arms and legs. Whilst this is common in the elderly, it can also increase the risk of them sustaining injuries from falls due to reductions in muscle strength. In these situations, it can be important to investigate purchasing a range of devices that allow the elderly to remain mobile and safe. Zimmer frames can be highly beneficial for senior citizens who have reduced mobility, as they provide a safe structure to allow walking around whilst minimizing the risk of sustaining falls. Electric wheelchairs and mobility scooters can also be extremely beneficial for elderly people with minimal mobility levels by allowing them to still get outdoors safely.
Social Needs
In addition to mobility needs, the social needs of your elderly relatives should be considered. Many elderly people live alone and often do not have regular contact with the outside world and friends or relatives. This can lead to feelings of isolation and can negatively impact the mental health of this age group. Thankfully, there is a range of ways to look after senior relatives’ social needs. Visiting them often is the best way to make them feel cared for and loved, and should be encouraged with the wider family. In circumstances where the elderly live far away, phone or video calls should be common to check in with them and update them on family news, helping them feel more connected.
Assisted Living
In some circumstances, your elderly relatives may begin to struggle to live in their own homes. This can be because of increased risks of falls, memory problems, feeling isolated, and having poor mental health. When it is no longer best for relatives to remain in their homes, but a degree of independence is still beneficial, then an assisted living facility can be the best option. Facilities such as assisted living in Glenview provide a pleasant environment with amenities on site. Such facilities will also have a self-contained community of elderly residents. This can be perfect to help senior loved ones keep social and build new friendships.
