Encouraging a Senior with Limited Mobility to Get Outside

There are several mental and physical hurdles that may prevent a senior from getting outside. Depending on how severe the disability is, the physical act of leaving the house might be a daunting task. However, several studies show that going outside is about more than the fresh air and does more than providing an avenue for alleviating boredom.

Studies show that going outside improves certain body functions, including memory, blood pressure and preventing depression. Here are a few tips to encourage a senior to go outside.

Start small

You don’t have to start out with activities that need a lot of physical exertion. To begin with, suggest simple activities that don’t necessarily involve going outside. Such activities include sitting by an open window every morning as they partake in other daily activities.

To take it further, maybe install a bird or squirrel feeder close to the porch to attract birds. The combination of fresh air and scenery usually does a good job of encouraging people to go outside.

Depending on the extent of their mobility problems, a short walk to the mailbox is useful to improving strength, coordination and stamina.

Pick the right equipment

Being able to navigate your environment safely is a crucial factor to consider when encouraging a senior to go outside. The fear of falling is a powerful deterrent. If its presence can be eliminated, an important step towards reaching your goal can be achieved.

Embarrassment and frustration at having assistance when going outside is a common source of fear of the outdoors. One relatively simple solution is mobility aids like canes or scooters.

Approach a physical or occupational therapist to figure out what mobility scooter pricing model fits within your budget. The right product will help them to stay active. If they view it as a nuisance, emphasize that they help to extend independence and improve safety.

Pick a simple activity

When you eventually get started, pick activities that don’t need a lot of energy to do. A trip to the library to read books or joining a community program to read to kids are both viable options.

The latter option is usually set up such that anyone can sign up and read to kids in the summer. As long as it’s not too far, a trip to the local museum or a nearby museum also works. If the same can be achieved with a mobility aid, even better.

Be patient

Be careful not to rush your loved one with activities if they are not receptive to the idea, to begin with. Convincing them that spending time outdoors is important to lead a fulfilling life is a difficult task, but isn’t impossible. You should remember that some people are not inclined to be outdoors in the first place.

If they were the same way during their younger years, it’s a behavior they are unlikely to give up at a later point in life. Depending on their personalities, and how urgent it is that they be outside, a little more aggressive options may be taken.

Eliminate the fear of falling

The fear of falling is a central concern in the lives of people afraid of going outdoors. If this fear exists, the necessary steps should be taken to get rid of it. This includes having a trained professional evaluate your home and its surroundings to make sure its fall-proof.

Other steps might include getting rid of tripping hazards and encouraging them to use mobility aids. Besides, they should speak with a professional regarding exercises that improve balance and how to prevent any more accidents.