As we age, illness or injury can affect our ability to walk.  Taking measures to strengthen or regain the ability to ambulate can have a positive effect on one’s mood and overall physical health.  With in-home care, we can assist you with ambulation and identify and address problems early on that may affect ambulation in the future.

If the client is able to walk on their own, we encourage them to do so as much as possible.  Many seniors need the aid of a device such as a cane or a walker.  First, it’s important to make sure they are using the right device for their specific needs and also that they are using it properly.  Improper use of ambulation aids can cause falls, which can lead to lengthy hospital and rehab stays.  Also, if possible, it’s good for caregivers to be within reach during ambulation to encourage them, correct unsafe use, and to help steady them if they are to get off-balance.  We call this ambulation monitoring and at Stress Free Home Care, it is a requirement if the client has a high fall risk.  Lastly, if the client is working with a physical therapist to strengthen their muscles and maintain mobility, it’s important to assist them with their daily exercises according to the therapist’s plan of care.  They usually only take 10-20 minutes to complete and can keep you or your loved one mobile for years to come.