Unless an individual themselves has experienced either a temporary or chronic lack of mobility, they may not be able to fully grasp the toll it can take on one’s mental health. While society has become increasingly consciousness of the reality of mental health, it is still a topic that we strive to raise awareness about. Members of the community who have less mobility may miss activities and social events with can lead to feelings of isolation. Add the separation everyone has experienced in the past two years due to covid-19; people are feeling lonelier then ever.
For individuals who are less mobile, particularly those who live by themselves, there are various support systems and tools at their disposal. Let us chat first about mental health and some things to remember.
- Communication is critical. Whether you are communicating with a family member, a friend, or someone in business, there are always ways to improve communication. Practice active listening: asking clarifying questions, rephrasing what the other person said, paying attention to body language. Slow down and remember to listen to the person while they are speaking rather than formulating your response in your head. When you practice active listening, you ensure that the other person’s voice is heard and protected, which makes them feel seen, valued, and increases self-esteem.
- If you are supporting an individual in your family with less mobility, try to include them in purchase decisions. Keep them in the loop on information that may assist them.
- No matter what amount of mobility a person has, they are human! Do everything you can to help them feel the honor and dignity they deserve. Quality of life is important. Remember to show your loved ones that they are loved. Learn their top love language and utilize it. Be a light in their life. Do favours for them. Organize surprises.
Next, let us transition into some of the tools available, particularly daily living aids and how they can increase the quality of life.
- If you have a caregiver living with you or who periodically visits your home, they can provide personalized care. They are accustomed to your space and your specific needs and can assist you well. Adding various daily living aid products in your home can increase the quality of care you receive. A grab rail in the washroom, toilet seat rails, a m-rail for your bed – these are all the products that make your life easier and guide the caregiver who is assisting you.
- Prioritize reducing the chances of an illness or injury in the home, as well as enabling fast recovery if something happens. Having a walker or cane at home for a rainy day could be very comforting.
- If you need a powered mobility device, consider a power chair. This will provide you with increased mobility with great maneuverability so you can access all areas of your home.
- Maybe you want to get a lift chair as well. Now you can enjoy a relaxing afternoon in your living room without the stress and pain that comes with transferring from one chair to another, or even if you have difficulty standing up without assistance. Lift chairs can help, and they come in stylish designs, cozy colors, and comfortable fabrics!
Ultimately the goal is to minimize change and stressors for individuals with decreased mobility. Allowing individuals to remain in their home and be supported by friends and family will create a stable and safe environment for them to thrive or adjust to changes as needed.
As always, Moose Mobility is here to help with the power to keep moving. We believe in helping you move easier, so you can live better.
