Mobility Issues – Helping those in the “In-Between Zone”
The first problem mentioned in our last blog was Mobility Issues. In case you missed it, here’s the issue as originally presented:
Mobility Issues
Mom refuses to use a cane or a walker. As such, she limits her walking excursions only as far as a trip to the bathroom and back. With some limited assistance (cane or walker) she could walk more, but she refuses.
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One reader gave a great response. Since I promised to not mention their name, I will honor the promise – but I loved the response:
We have success by introducing a new item gradually. My dad needed a walker but was using canes. We got a snazzy red one with a seat, wheels and basket. At first he would only use it when going to the store or doctor. Then we tried it in the house and now he uses it all the time. It took a few weeks to fully accept it. Same scenario with his oxygen.
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Of course, different methods will work while dealing with Mobility Issues in different folks, but this reader used the gradual approach – and it worked!
Our last post raised the issue of helping a parent who may need your help but really doesn’t want it. I threw out several examples where real life family caregivers were currently struggling to help a declining parent and asked for stories of what they did to help with the issue.
In our next article, we will cover another “In-Between Zone” issue and your way of incorporating your “fix” so as to improve the life of your declining Loved One.
By the way, the other 4 issues we will cover are:
Personal Care/Hygiene
Clipping toenails is a common issue. The podiatrist charged $70 for the last visit, which Mom can easily afford, but she refuses to pay for professional services. Mom has diabetes and is on a blood thinner. The ends of her toes are now bloodied and are getting worse.
Elderly Driving
Dad has a recent scrape on all four corners of his car and occasionally gets lost in his small town. He refuses to quit driving and tells the Adult Kids “to mind their own business”.
Medication
Mom has a medication box, which daughter has carefully stocked with her daily meds. After two days, the medication levels either will not have changed at all OR the box will be completely empty.
Mealtime Issues
Son and his wife not only grocery shop for Mom, but stock the shelves and bring freshly cooked meals a few times per week to place in Mom’s refrigerator. It is clear that Mom is not using any of her groceries and is not eating any of her meals. Instead, she prefers peanut butter and gummy bears.
It’s Important to NOT Feel Limited
Don’t feel limited by this list. Please remember that you are not alone! If you have another issue or area where you have achieved some success, please let us know in the Comments below.
Next Step:
Is your Loved One in the “In-Between Zone”? If so, please let us know the challenge(s) you are facing and how you handle it.
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Thank You for being a Caregiver for Your Loved One – you are making a huge difference in their life!
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