As people get older, it’s common for the spine to shorten. This causes people to “shrink” very gradually, losing from one to four inches in height. In some people, the upper spine also begins to curve, leading to a stooped posture. Usually elderly people experience a shrinking in their muscles, especially if they don’t exercise. This can make them feel weak and tired more easily. In addition, if injured, older muscles take long to heal.
The bones can get thinner and weaker, especially in women. This puts elderly people at risk for broken bones. So, if they do break a bone, it will take longer to heal. Usually joints become stiff, which is especially noticeable after a night in bed. This loss of flexibility causes movement to be slower and sometimes painful. The cartilage in joints wears out over time. This weakens the joints and causes arthritis.
To Help Your Elderly & Senior Loved Ones Prevent Problems With Their Muscles and Bones, You Should:
- Assist them to exercise every day, even if it’s just a slow walk or a series of range of motion exercises.
- Encourage them to use assistive devices as needed for ambulation. This includes canes, walkers, braces, and crutches.
- Help them “loosen” their stiff muscles and joints by doing range of motion exercises.
Keep an eye out for times when your senior loved one might need help. For example, they may not have the strength needed to open a food jar or a medication container. Or, their stiff joints may not bend to allow them to put the cap back on the toothpaste or to pick up a pen. Be ready to assist them as needed.
Remember that elderly people move more slowly. Allow plenty of time for them to complete tasks. And be sure to build in some rest periods in between activities.
Watch For & Seek Medical Help When You Notice:
- Pain in limbs or joins or swollen joints
- Weakness
- Unsteady walking (gait)
- Problems with walking
- Falls
At Comfort Keepers we seek to be a resource to you because we are Comfort Keepers caregivers and we are here to help! Comfort Keepers provides in-home care to seniors and the elderly living in Ocala, Gainesville, and The Villages Florida. We provide superior in-home care to seniors and the elderly throughout Central Florida so they can live enriched independent lifestyles! Call us today at 855-592-0013.
photo credit: greg westfall.
