Most seniors want to stay healthy and active for as long as possible. Mobility is an essential component of healthy aging, and loss of mobility can have profound physical, psychological, and social consequences. Fortunately, activities for seniors with limited mobility can help older adults stay active and healthy in their golden years.
Health concerns, including mobility, are a primary reason for choosing a senior living community. Buckner Villas is a senior living community in Austin, TX, offering a full continuum of care for seniors 62 and older. Our health and wellness programs help residents thrive physically, socially, and psychologically.
Call 512.580.9882 today to learn more about our senior community life and schedule a tour.
Why Causes Limited Mobility for Seniors?
Mobility, the ability to walk or move freely and easily, is vital to functioning well and living independently. Obvious factors contributing to a loss of mobility include aging, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, impaired strength, balance issues, and chronic diseases such as arthritis and diabetes. Other less apparent factors include:
- Depression
- Memory loss
- Cognitive decline
- Hospitalizations
- Smoking and drinking alcohol
- Isolation
- A sense of helplessness
Most of these contributing factors can be limited or prevented. Lifestyle changes, such as diet, exercise, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol intake, can dramatically improve mobility. Physical therapy can increase core strength and improve balance. Occupational therapy can improve a person’s ability to manage activities of daily living (ADLs). Social support decreases symptoms of depression, isolation, and cognitive decline.
Seniors who experience mobility issues do not automatically have to begin leading sedentary lives. Devices like canes, walkers, scooters, or wheelchairs can assist with mobility. Reading, listening to music, board games, brain games, or watching movies are all excellent ways to keep seniors with limited mobility stimulated and engaged in their environment.
3 Activities for Seniors with Limited Mobility
There are many ways to have fun, stay healthy, and remain fully engaged in life, even with mobility issues. Following are three top activities for seniors with limited mobility:
- Regular exercise – Limited mobility does not mean that exercise is off the table. Chair yoga, seated exercises, or exercises incorporating a walker for stability all have benefits, including increased flexibility, reduced joint pain, improved balance, and enhanced mood. Wheelchair activities for seniors can also help individuals stay in shape as they age.
- Arts and crafts – Activities that involve creative thinking keep the mind sharp. Arts and crafts are hobbies for seniors with limited mobility that can strengthen hand muscles and improve hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. Drawing, coloring, painting, knitting, quilting, organizing family photos, scrapbooking, or creating a family cookbook are activities seniors can enjoy. Being creative also increases patience and reduces stress and anxiety.
- Volunteering – There are many ways seniors with limited mobility can remain connected and give back to the community by volunteering from home. Activities could include soliciting donations over the phone, assembling care packages, and knitting or crocheting blankets and clothing. Volunteering provides a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
Learning new hobbies can prevent boredom and maintain cognitive function for seniors with limited mobility. Some popular hobbies include arts and crafts, birdwatching, baking, language learning, container gardening, or playing an instrument.
Call Today to Start the Health and Wellness Program for Seniors with Limited Mobility at Buckner Villas
Buckner Villas is the premier choice for senior living in Austin, TX. Our community provides countless opportunities for residents to stay engaged in life despite mobility issues. Our health and wellness programs include a range of activities to fulfill the interests of all residents.
At Buckner Villas, the well-being of our residents is our top priority. Call 512.580.9882 today to learn more about mobility in senior living, or complete our online form to get started.