Norbella Senior Living, Author at NorBella

An individual feeds their older parent soup while taking them out through a park on a walk with their wheelchair

How to Care for an Elderly Parent Who Can’t Walk

Providing care for an elderly parent who cannot walk is a significant responsibility with unique challenges and rewards. This task requires empathy, patience, and knowledge to ensure your loved one remains comfortable, safe, and emotionally supported. Various options are available to help care for a parent who cannot walk, including mobility aids, home modifications, and physical therapy.

Assisted living is an equally viable option for those who cannot accommodate their parent in their own home or are concerned about their loved one having enough support in their home.

Understanding the Challenges of Mobility Problems

Caring for a parent with mobility problems involves understanding their multifaceted challenges, such as:

Difficulty with tasks such as moving from one room to another
Performing daily activities like bathing or dressing
Feelings of frustration and dependency
Reduced social interactions, leading to loneliness and depression

Recognizing emotional challenges allows caregivers to incorporate activities and support systems promoting mental well-being and community.

From a practical standpoint, mobility problems also demand adjustments in the home environment to prevent falls and injuries. This might involve rearranging furniture, installing grab bars, or investing in mobility aids. By anticipating these challenges, caregivers can create a safer and more supportive living space for their loved ones.

What Causes Seniors to Stop Walking?

There are numerous reasons why an older adult might stop walking, ranging from physical to psychological factors.

Arthritis, osteoporosis, or neurological disorders can lead to pain, stiffness, or imbalance.
Past falls or close calls can leave older adults anxious about walking, creating a psychological barrier that stops them from attempting to move.
Prolonged immobility can stem from surgery or hospitalization, where muscle strength and coordination deteriorate due to lack of use.

Tips for Supporting & Caring for Your Loved One

Implement a Routine

Establishing a routine provides structure and familiarity, comforting seniors with mobility challenges. Routines help manage time effectively and boost productivity by ensuring that essential activities aren’t overlooked. They also provide predictability, which is especially beneficial for those with cognitive impairments or anxiety about mobility tasks.

It is important to involve elderly parents in creating their routines. This encourages their active participation in daily activities and ensures the routine aligns with their preferences and energy levels, fostering a sense of control and satisfaction. A well-designed routine balances physical activity, rest, social interaction, and personal care, all crucial for overall well-being.

Mobility Aids for Seniors with Difficulty Walking

Aids can dramatically improve the quality of life for seniors who struggle with mobility. These tools range from simple canes to advanced electric wheelchairs, each serving specific needs and enhancing independence.

Walkers and rollators offer additional stability for those who can still walk but need extra support. Many come with seats and storage options, making them practical for daily use.
For those with more severe mobility issues, wheelchairs or mobility scooters might be necessary. These devices offer greater ease of movement and access to various areas inside and outside the home.

Mobility aids provide physical support and contribute to a senior’s psychological well-being by fostering independence and confidence. Encouraging their use involves demonstrating their benefits and ensuring they’re tailored to fit the user’s needs comfortably and effectively.

Accessibility Home Improvements

Making the home environment accessible is critical for seniors who can’t walk. Simple modifications can have substantial impacts on safety and ease of movement, including:

Installing ramps
Widening doorways
Ensuring floors are slip-resistant
Installing grab bars and using raised toilet seats in the bathroom
Equipping showers with adjustable showerheads and non-slip mats

A senior holds onto a grab bar while using the toilet in their home bathroom

Thinking creatively about accessibility doesn’t just involve structural changes. It might also include rearranging frequently used items into easy-to-reach spots, reducing the need for unnecessary movement and enhancing an individual’s autonomy at home.

Arrange Transportation When They Need It

Transportation is crucial to maintaining independence and quality of life for seniors with limited mobility. Arranging reliable transportation ensures they can attend medical appointments, visit friends, or run errands without unnecessary stress. Various options exist, from community transport services to specialized vehicles that handle wheelchairs.

Maintaining an open conversation with your elderly parent about their transport needs will help identify the best solution. This dialogue ensures they feel included in decisions affecting their independence and enables them to continue engaging with the world around them.

Emotional Support

Providing emotional support is as important as addressing physical needs when caring for an elderly parent who can’t walk. Mobility limitations often lead to feelings of frustration, helplessness, or depression, which require sensitive handling to ensure overall well-being.

Encouraging open communication about their feelings and concerns helps reinforce their sense of worth and belonging. Listening actively and validating their experiences comfort the individual and strengthen your bond, making the caregiving experience more rewarding for both parties.

Professional Help for Seniors Who Can’t Walk

While caring for a loved one is rewarding, it can also be demanding, and seeking professional help is sometimes necessary to ensure comprehensive care. Engaging healthcare professionals, such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, or home care aides, provide specialized support that enhances the quality of care.

Professional caregivers bring expertise in managing specific health conditions and can offer practical solutions and strategies to improve mobility and comfort. Their presence also gives family caregivers respite, allowing them to recharge and maintain their well-being.

Exercise & Physical Rehab

Consulting with a physiotherapist or occupational therapist can provide personalized exercise regimens that address specific mobility challenges. Professional guidance ensures exercises are performed safely and effectively, maximizing their benefits without risking injury.

Exercise is vital in managing mobility issues and maintaining overall health for seniors. Regular physical activity helps improve strength, balance, and flexibility, which is crucial for preventing falls and promoting independence. Tailored to individual needs, physical rehab can significantly aid recovery and enhance mobility.

Support Your Loved One with Assisted Living

NorBella Senior Living understands that caring for an older parent who cannot walk is a multifaceted responsibility that demands empathy, preparation, and support. Contact us today to see if assisted living could help alleviate some of these problems for you and your family and help your loved one maintain their independence and dignity.

an older adult consulting with their doctor if it is time to transition to memory care.

When to Move From Assisted Living to Memory Care

By Norbella Senior Livingin Uncategorized

Caring for a loved one can be both rewarding and challenging, especially as their needs evolve over time. For seniors in assisted living who are experiencing cognitive decline related to dementia, there may come a point when they require more specialized support for memory-related issues. This support is known as memory care.

Recognizing when it’s the right time to transition from assisted living to memory care can help guarantee your loved one’s safety, wellbeing, and quality of life. That’s why we’ve prepared a guide to help caregivers and families understand when it might be appropriate to consider memory care for their loved ones.

What Is Memory Care?

Memory care is a specialized form of senior care designed to meet the unique needs of individuals with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other memory-related conditions. Unlike assisted living, memory care offers a more secure environment, personalized care plans, and activities that stimulate cognitive function and enhance quality of life.

Signs Your Loved One May Need Memory Care

It’s not always easy to determine when the transition to memory care is necessary. Here are some signs that could indicate your loved one might benefit from this specialized level of support:

Safety Concerns Are Increasing

If your loved one frequently wanders, forgets to turn off appliances, or becomes easily disoriented, their safety may be at risk. Memory care communities have enhanced security measures, including alarmed doors and secure layouts, to prevent accidents or wandering.

Progression of Dementia or Alzheimer’s

Memory loss related to dementia often worsens over time, leading to difficulties in managing daily tasks like dressing, grooming, or preparing meals. If a person’s cognitive decline has advanced beyond what assisted living staff can adequately manage, memory care might be a better fit.

Behavioral Changes

Confusion, aggression, anxiety, and mood swings are common with dementia-related conditions. Memory care communities are staffed with trained professionals who understand how to address these changes with patience and specialized techniques.

Declining Physical Health

Dementia-related decline can lead to poor eating habits, neglect of personal hygiene, or forgetting important medications. Memory care provides structured daily routines and close monitoring to support both cognitive and physical health.

Managing Caregiver Stress

Caregivers are often stretched thin emotionally, physically, and mentally. If family members or assisted living staff find it increasingly difficult to meet your loved one’s growing needs, transitioning to memory care can relieve this burden while ensuring your loved one receives professional care.

Social Isolation

Seniors experiencing memory loss may withdraw from social activities, leading to isolation and loneliness. Memory care facilities offer engaging group activities, fostering community and social connection, which can improve mood and reduce feelings of isolation.

Difficulty Following Assisted Living Routines

Assisted living is designed for seniors who need help with daily tasks, but who can still participate in regular social and community routines. If your loved one finds it difficult to adapt to these routines or attend group outings due to memory problems, a more individualized memory care environment might be necessary.

an older person gardening with a memory care aid.

The Benefits of Memory Care

Recognizing when memory care becomes the right choice for your loved one is an important factor in their quality of life. Here are some of the possible benefits:

Specialized Support: Memory care focuses specifically on managing conditions like Alzheimer’s and dementia. Staff is trained to handle the challenges associated with these conditions, providing a higher level of expertise than general assisted living.
Safety First: From secure layouts to 24/7 supervision, memory care ensures a safe environment tailored to prevent wandering or accidents.
Personalized Activities: Engaging programs and activities are designed to stimulate cognitive abilities and promote emotional wellbeing. These include music therapy, light physical exercise, and familiar routines that bring comfort.
Peace of Mind: Transitioning to memory care helps reduce caregiver stress, allowing families to focus on spending quality time with their loved one instead of worrying about their safety or health.

Making the Transition Smoothly

Moving a loved one to memory care can be an emotional and complex decision. Here are a few steps to make the transition as smooth as possible:

Have Open Conversations

Discuss the move with your loved one and involve them in the decision-making process, if possible. Be patient and empathetic in addressing their concerns.

Research and Visit Facilities

Tour memory care facilities to ensure they provide the level of care and services your family needs. Consider factors like staff expertise, safety measures, and resident activities.

Prepare Familiar Belongings

Bring in familiar items like photos, blankets, or favorite books to make their new environment feel like home.

Work With the Staff

Share important details about your loved one’s routines, preferences, and personality traits to help staff provide personalized care.

Be Patient

Adjusting to memory care takes time—for both your loved one and the family. Maintain open communication with the facility’s staff and give your loved one time to settle into their new environment.

Thinking About Making the Transition?

If you’re considering memory care for a loved one, NorBella Rogers offers compassionate, high-quality care. Visit NorBella Senior Living to learn more and take the first step toward ensuring your loved one’s peace of mind and quality of life.

A mature couple enjoying their outdoor walk while holding their yoga mats.

How Much Physical Activity Do Older Adults Need?

By Norbella Senior Livingin Health Care

Staying active plays a key role in healthy aging. It helps preserve and improve our physical health and wellness and helps us maintain our independence as we grow older.

Physical activity doesn’t have to be strenuous. The key is to start small, stay consistent, and find joy in movement.

Movement of any kind is great but it’s recommended for older adults to engage in:

150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week.
Strength training at least twice a week.
Activities that promote balance and mobility at least once a week.

Importance of Physical Activity for Healthy Aging

Physical activity is beneficial for everyone, regardless of age or health status. But, it plays an even more pivotal role in maintaining our overall health as we grow older.

Consistent exercise can help maintain and improve various bodily functions, including cardiovascular health, muscle strength, flexibility, and balance, which decline as we grow older if we don’t stimulate and engage these areas.

An exercise regimen can help older adults manage their weight, improve metabolic function (which also declines as we grow older), and help prevent diseases like diabetes and obesity.

Exercise releases endorphins, known as “feel-good” hormones, which help reduce stress and promote a sense of happiness and relaxation. Regular physical activity has been linked to decreased levels of anxiety and depression, which are common mental health challenges faced by older adults.

Plus, the social aspect of physical activity cannot be understated. Engaging in group exercises or activities provides opportunities for social interaction, reducing the risk of loneliness and isolation.

From a cognitive perspective, regular exercise has been shown to improve memory, attention, and executive function, which is necessary to stimulate as we grow older.

Routine Physical Activity for Older Adults

While movement of any form is good for the mind and body, generally, adults 65 and older are encouraged to engage in at least:

150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week.
Strength training at least twice a week.
Activities that promote balance and mobility at least once a week.

Incorporating a variety of movements provides a well-rounded approach to fitness, allowing individuals to activate and engage different muscle groups. Plus, the variety in exercise helps avoid boredom, promoting consistency in an activity regimen.

Always listen to your body. Pay attention to how you feel during and after an exercise and always indulge in rest when necessary to avoid overexertion, injury, or quitting on routine activity altogether.

A challenge is fine, but pain or discomfort isn’t. Take the time to adjust the intensity or form of activity and allow your body time to rest and heal.

Aerobic Physical Activity

Also known as cardio, aerobic physical activity is any exercise that increases your heart rate and breathing, and is beneficial for heart health, lung capacity, and overall endurance.

Incorporating regular cardio activity into your weekly routine helps improve:

Cardiovascular endurance, reducing the risk of heart-related issues.
Lung capacity by promoting blood circulation.
Oxygen availability to muscles and vital organs, boosting energy levels and stamina.
Weight management, decreasing the risk of obesity-related conditions.

Aerobic activity can be adjusted based on intensity levels, and broken down into segments, making it more manageable to achieve weekly fitness goals.

Moderately-intense activities include those that raise the heart rate slightly and might cause light sweating such as:

Brisk walking
Dancing
Gardening
Swimming
Cycling at a gentle pace

Cardio doesn’t have to be hard or daunting! Incorporating activities you enjoy makes exercise more fun, encouraging individuals to stick to their fitness goals.

Vigorously-intense activities, on the other hand, require more effort and lead to heavier breathing. These are a great option for individuals who’d like more of a challenge.

A good indicator of vigorous physical activity is the “talk test.” Speaking becomes harder during high-intensity levels. So, you may only be able to say a few words before needing to take a break.

Jogging, swimming laps, or cycling at a fast pace, are all great options as they require more effort and lead to increased breathing and heart rates.

An older adult using their chair for support while doing body weight exercises.

Strength Training

Strength training involves using resistance to build muscle strength.

This helps combat the natural decline in muscle mass and bone density that occurs with age and is necessary for strengthening and improving mobility, helping to reduce the risk of falls and maintaining independence.

Bodyweight Exercises: Practice exercises like squats, lunges, and push-ups, which are effective for strengthening major muscle groups without additional equipment.
Traditional Weight Lifting: Incorporates weights to build overall body strength by activating major muscle groups.
Pilates: This focuses on using low resistance to engage core stability, balance, and flexibility, toning the overall body, reducing back pain, and improving posture.
Barre: Emphasizes small, controlled movements using light weights for muscle toning and flexibility.
Chair Exercises: Perform seated or supported exercises using a chair, perfect for those who require extra stability while working on muscle tone and strength.

Balance Activities

As we grow older, maintaining balance becomes helpful in reducing the risk of falls and associated injuries.

Incorporating balance exercises into a workout routine helps support healthy aging by enhancing stability, coordination, and flexibility. These exercises also promote better posture and alignment, reducing strain on the body.

Tai Chi: Involves flowing, low-impact movements that emphasize balance, coordination, and controlled breathing.
Yoga: Focuses on holding various poses that improve balance, flexibility, and strength.
Standing on One Foot: Simple exercise where you stand on one foot for a set duration, alternating between legs.
Chair Sit-to-Stand: Repeatedly standing up from a chair without using your hands to build lower body strength and balance.
Side Leg Raises: While holding onto a support, lift one leg to the side, which helps strengthen the hips and improve balance.

Schedule a Visit

Physical activity has numerous health benefits, including preventing and managing chronic conditions, maintaining independence, and enjoying an active lifestyle.

Our community at NorBella Senior Living recognizes these benefits, which is why we continue to promote and encourage residents to engage in physical activity.

Connect with our team to schedule a tour to learn more about our fitness and wellness programs.

An adult child talking to their mature parent about transitioning to community living.

How to Talk To Elderly Parents About Accepting Help

By Norbella Senior Livingin Lifestyle

Initiating a conversation with a senior parent about transitioning to community living can be challenging, but not impossible. It’s an important step in confirming their safety, health, and happiness.

By approaching this topic with empathy, and positivity, and including your loved one in the process, you can guide them toward accepting the help they need.

Signs that Indicate Your Parent Needs Help

Before approaching this conversation with your parent, it’s necessary to determine whether they require additional care and assistance that cannot be provided at home.

It can be hard watching our loved ones grow older but remaining positive and supportive goes a long way.

Decline in Physical Health

One of the most noticeable signs that a parent may require additional support is a decline in their physical health.

This may look like changes in their appearance through weight fluctuations, frequent illness, and chronic fatigue. In community living, residents have access to regular health check-ups and assistance with medication management and meal preparation, helping to maintain their physical health.

Decline in physical health may also look like mobility concerns, which can lead to issues like falls and injuries. In community living, our accessible floorplans provide residents with wide hallways and supportive handrails to help maintain balance.

Safety Concerns

Safety concerns are another significant indicator which can put your loved ones health at risk.

If your loved one has experienced falls or accidents or forgot to turn off their appliances, maybe you’ve noticed expired food in the fridge or unpaid bills piling up, these signs suggest that managing daily tasks has become challenging.

Assisted living and memory care communities provide residents with assistance with daily tasks, regular dining experiences, and housekeeping, allowing your loved one to focus on their wellness without worrying about mundane daily stresses.

Plus, these communities are equipped with round-the-clock professional care and support, who can assist your loved one at any time.

Increasing Cognitive Decline

Increasing incidents that suggest the onset of cognitive decline or worsening symptoms shouldn’t be overlooked.

If your parent frequently forgets appointments, misplaces items, or struggles to recall names and places, it’s time to consider professional care.

Memory care communities are designed to support individuals experiencing cognitive decline, providing tailored activities and therapies that help stimulate cognitive function, in a safe and welcoming environment.

How to Talk to Your Parent About Community Living

Talking to your parent about accepting additional support may be a sensitive topic, as many wish to maintain their independence.

It may take time for your parent to understand where their loved ones are coming from. Once you openly share your concerns about their health, they may gradually come to understand your perspective as they continue to navigate their daily activities.

The goal of this conversation isn’t to push them into agreeing with this transition. It’s important to hear both sides of the conversation so that you and your parent can move forward with a balanced approach.

Be Empathetic

Your approach to this conversation can make all the difference. Leading with empathy can help your parent feel safe enough to open up about their feelings and their struggles.

Begin by expressing your concerns out of love, not obligation. Use empathetic language and assure them that this decision comes from a place of care.

Don’t dismiss their feelings, actively listen to their fears and reservations, while gently guiding them towards the idea that community living can enhance their life.

An adult chid and their mature parent research community care environments together.

Stay Positive

Focus on the positive aspects of community living. Some older adults may feel uncertain about transitioning to community living because of the life they’ve curated independently over the years.

Reassure by letting them know this shift in location doesn’t mean they’re losing connection with the world they’ve created. In addition to the new friends and activities they’ll get to experience in community living, they can still maintain their connections with their friends, families, and solo activities.

Explain how professional assistance with daily tasks and medical needs can lead to a healthier, more fulfilling lifestyle. Reassure them that this move intends to preserve their independence, not diminish it.

Include Them in the Process

Involving your parent in the decision-making process can alleviate their fears about losing autonomy.

Take the time to ask them what qualities they are looking for in a long-term care community. Visit potential communities together, allowing them to interact with staff and residents.

Including your parent in this process can empower them and make the transition feel like a joint decision rather than an imposition.

Finding the Right Care Community

When speaking with your parent about accepting support, it’s beneficial to understand which type of care community will be most compatible with their needs.

Finding the right care environment can provide them with the appropriate level of care and help maintain social connections, improving their quality of life.

When researching care communities, consider factors like proximity to family and friends, staff qualifications, available services and amenities, and community culture.

Understanding Assisted Living vs. Memory Care

Our community at NorBella Senior Living provides residents and families with two forms of long-term care, each carefully designed to support different aspects of healthy aging:

Assisted Living
Memory Care

Assisted living is ideal for older adults who are relatively independent but require help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and medication management. Residents are often mobile, and self-sufficient, but benefit from occasional assistance.

Memory care is a specialized form of long-term care designed for individuals experiencing cognitive decline with conditions dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. These communities provide structured routines and activities that help stimulate cognitive function while promoting social connection.

Additionally, our professional staff is trained to handle the unique challenges associated with those experiencing cognitive decline, confirming your loved ones are approached with compassion, empathy, and knowledge.

Ultimately, choosing the right community involves confirming the level of care, atmosphere, and services and amenities align with your parent’s needs, preferences, and lifestyle.

Schedule a Tour

Approaching your loved one with empathy, and positivity, and including them in the transition process can make it easier for them to understand their need for additional help.

Connect with our team at NorBella Senior Living to schedule a tour of our care communities to learn which option is most suitable for your loved one’s needs.