A lot of us take the freedom to live independently for granted, but not everyone can. There are those out there who have a hard time living autonomously. Some of us have restrictions due to limited mobility.
Limited mobility doesn’t mean that you have to stop living. There are activities that you can do, and ways to live freely and independently.
Let’s start with why you may be limited in your mobility.
Reasons for Limited Mobility
There are many reasons for being limited in mobility.
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Paralysis such as paraplegia
- Amputation
- Arthritis
- Back disorders
- Cerebral Palsy
- Muscular Dystrophy and Multiple Sclerosis
- Osteoarthritis
- Falls and injuries, especially in seniors
- Cognitive conditions such as Alzheimer’s
While this isn’t an exhaustive list, it’s a start for those who want to learn more. This is a place to start a conversation. Such conversations can be hard for both you and those learning about living with limited mobility. You may still be trying to accept your new situation.
Once you accept your circumstances, you’ll find that you can still get around, take care of yourself, and exercise.
Exercising with Limited Mobility
There are various benefits to exercising. These can help everyone, not just those dealing with limited mobility. Exercising releases endorphins, which gives the following boons:
- Boosts your mood
- Eases depression
- Relieves stress and anxiety
- Enhances self-esteem
- Improves outlook on life
Types of Exercise
- Cardiovascular – including walking, running, cycling, swimming, water aerobics, or ‘aqua jogging’. Water exercising is beneficial for those who are limited in their mobility. It supports the body and reduces the risk of muscle and joint discomfort.
- Sports – such as basketball, tennis, and even Olympic sports.
- Strength Training – lifting weights or using some other type of resistance.
- Flexibility – can enhance the range of motion, prevent injury, and reduce pain and stiffness.
Set Yourself up for Success
- Talk to your doctor or physical therapist before setting up a routine. Ask questions about how much, the type of exercises you can do, and what to avoid.
- Don’t go too fast at first.
- Slowly increase your activity level.
- Make it a part of your daily life.
- Keep doing it.
- Embrace the highs.
- Expect lows.
- Be safe.
- Don’t exercise if you experience any pain, disorientation, nausea, dizziness, lightheadedness, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, or clammy hands.
- Don’t do any activity that involves an injured body part.
- Always warm-up beforehand, and cool down afterwards.
- Drink plenty of water.
Please be safe in whatever exercise you choose to do. Always listen to your doctor and do your best to stick with it. Yes, it can sometimes be discouraging, but you can succeed as long as you don’t give up.
Accessibility Aids
Mobility Caring provides independent living and confidence to those with limited mobility. Through Mobility Caring, you can get:
- Ramps
- Manual and Power Wheelchairs
- Power Mobility Scooters and Chairs
- Walkers, frames, and crutches
- Bathroom accommodations
- Bedroom accommodations including pressure therapy mattresses
- Lifts
They also have daily aids for things like dressing, grooming, and cooking.
Conclusion
Limited mobility doesn’t have to hold you back from a life of enjoyment. You can still exercise and live an independent life with the help of Mobility Caring. Do the research you need to do and learn everything you can to keep motivated and fulfilled.
If dealing with limited mobility is still new to you, allow yourself time to process. Your doctor will tell you what you need to do. Be kind to yourself. Find something that makes you happy, and remember to live confidently and freely.