3 Common Physical Disabilities In Elderly People
As we get older, our physical needs are sure to change and it’s possible that you may find yourself living with a disability of some kind in the future.
As such, it’s important to be open to the idea of making home adaptations to account for your evolving needs, particularly if you’re keen to continue living within the comfort of your own home for as long as possible… something that the vast majority of people want to do.
Here are some of the more common disabilities that affect older people – and how you can mitigate the effects by making your home more accessible.
Arthritis
Arthritis is characterised by joint inflammation and stiffness, typically down to wear and tear of tissues, something that happens quicker with age. Symptoms include reduced range of motion, stiffness, tenderness and pain.
At home, consider installing grab bars and handrails in the bathroom and other places where balance is required, as well as using anti-slip flooring in hazardous places and installing lever-style door handles throughout. Walk-in baths and shower seating can also help make the bathroom safer to use.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is where your bones start to weaken, making them more fragile and prone to breaks and fractures, with the wrists, hips and vertebrae most likely to be affected.
At home, consider using rubber mats in the bath and underneath any sinks to prevent slips, trips and falls, and look out for any trip hazards throughout the house such as cables and wires, or loose-fitting rugs and carpets.
Vision impairment
Conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts and age-related macular degeneration become more likely as we get older and daily living activities can be significantly affected as a result.
You can make the house safer to navigate by using non-reflective and anti-slip safety flooring, using contrasting colours on walls and floors, installing matte finish tiles for better visibility and so on. Take a look at one of our blogs on the topic to find out more.