Changes to a person’s independence can sometimes take time for them to get used to. There may be both physical and emotional challenges for them to overcome. There will be times when you may have to step in and support them.
Encourage A Healthy Lifestyle
Having mobility issues and changes in independence means many people with limited mobility struggle to maintain a healthy lifestyle. One thing they can do to help with this is to make sure they keep their brain active. Some people with mobility issues find themselves at home more. If they don’t keep their mind stimulated, they may begin to feel lost and bored. Doing puzzles such as word searches and sudoku can help them do this. Reading is another exciting activity they can do to get their brain thinking and learning.
It’s also important to get your loved one out of the house. While mobility challenges may limit certain activities, it doesn’t necessarily mean they have to stop doing all their usual activities. If possible, why not encourage them to go to the garden center or enjoy a coffee at a cafe to give them a sense of normalcy.
Being active can improve mental wellbeing, boost energy levels and help them maintain their independence. It’s important for less mobile people to exercise, but it might look different and something they have to adapt to. For example, chair exercises may be something they feel comfortable with. To do this, they must choose a sturdy and stable chair to sit on. They can then do gentle exercises like upper body twists, ankle stretches and hip marching. They should only do what they’re comfortable with and shouldn’t push themselves too hard. You could even help them create an exercise plan for the week.
Help Them Where Necessary
Changes in independence for your loved one could mean they need some extra physical help. For example, doing the food shop together could make a huge difference to them. They might struggle to buy food for a whole range of reasons. This could be because they don’t drive anymore, carrying the shopping is difficult or reaching higher shelves isn’t possible. Food shopping is something everyone needs to do, and doing it together means they’ll have someone to help them. If they prefer to shop online, this could be something they need assistance with as well.
Ask them if they need help with anything specific, and let them know you're there for them. Your gestures could make their life a lot easier.
Check In On Them
Changes in independence can cause many people to feel frustrated or upset. If they’re at home often, this means they have more time to think about these negative emotions. This can lead to feelings of depression or loneliness, which could cause them to feel like a burden.
Call or text your loved one daily, and ask to meet up when you’re both free. Having someone checking in on them shows them that they have support and they aren’t alone. Ask them what they need from you to feel okay, as they may have something specific in mind. It's important to remember that going from being able to do everything for yourself to needing help with certain things can be a really tough adjustment for many people mentally.
Mobility Is Useful
Mobility aids are a great way for people to gain back their independence. This could be a mobility scooter or powered wheelchair to help them travel around better. Certain tasks may be tricky around the house as well, such as walking up the stairs to go to bed. A stairlift can help them get upstairs without a problem. If they struggle to shower because they can’t stand up for long, then adding a shower seat is a practical solution.
Getting used to a new mobility aid may take time for a loved one. If they need help getting used to their new device, be sure to lend them a hand.
If your loved one is struggling with changes in their independence, there’s lots you can do to support them. Remember to ask them what they need and don’t assume. Let them know you’re there for them and happy to help with anything they need.
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