Mobility is a common issue for seniors in transition. They may find they are paying much more attention to how they will navigate their surroundings, especially if they are relocating to a completely different type of residence. Moving from a traditional home to a retirement home or a condominium may mean “no more stairs” but may require more walking. Why is that?
A traditional, two-storey or back-split home requires the homeowner to navigate stairs but travel only short distances within or around the home. A move to a retirement residence or condo building can eliminate the need to use stairs. However, there is more walking required, unless the person uses a wheelchair. This is especially true for an “independent living retirement home”. A resident needs to get to all the various rooms that may be in the residence such as a dining room, exercise room, pool, library, tuck shop, media room and chapel.
An “assisted living retirement home” usually requires less internal travel in the facility. Some services are delivered to the resident in their room or the resident is provided assistance in getting around to the shared rooms.
Mobility is not just walking. It includes the following:
- Getting around independently or with assistive devices such as a cane, walker, wheelchair or scooter
- Changing position: standing up from a seated or lying position, rolling over in bed.
- Bodily measurements related to movement: strength, balance, flexibility and endurance.
Senior mobility is a balance between autonomy and safety.
Here are two helpful videos that highlight mobility from different viewpoints. The first video is from the USA and has enjoyed limited visibility, so far but provides a valuable opinion on mobility. The second video is from the UK and contains practical information on how to choose a cane or walking stick.
Mobility: A Vital Measure | Chiropractor | Glenwood Springs, CO
1:30
This video explains how limited mobility, for the musculoskeletal system, is much like having high blood pressure for the cardiovascular system.
Measuring For The Right Walking Stick (Co-op Mobility)
2:10
You are welcome to comment below with any helpful, mobility resources that you have discovered.
You may notice some Canadian spelling in these posts. The words may look odd but that’s how we spell them. We’re used to it.
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Author:
Unless otherwise credited, all posts are happily authored with a quill pen …
Paul Ferri, Broker, ASA (Accredited Senior Agent)
RE/MAX Unique Inc. Brokerage*, Toronto, Canada
*Each office independently owned and operated.
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