Caring for an aging parent who can’t walk is often rewarding, but it can also be challenging. It requires patience, love, and respect. A proper plan and a compassionate approach to caregiving can help you take care of your loved one.
To care for an aging parent who can’t walk, you should:
- Make their home safe and accessible
- Use mobility aids to promote independence
- Prioritize their comfort and well-being
- Consider a move to senior living
Make Their Home Safe & Accessible
The first step in supporting your aging parent is to create a safe and accessible environment. Modifications can take some time, but they can restore your loved one’s independence by helping them get around the house. This is especially important if you don’t live together.
Start by adding ramps throughout the home. These are especially crucial for homes with steps that separate rooms, as ramps can allow easier movement from one room to another. Then, consider installing non-slip mats in areas that may get wet or slippery, like the bathroom or kitchen.
Then, throughout the home, try to:
- Clear pathways to reduce tripping hazards
- Install grab bars in bathrooms for added stability
- Ensure that commonly used items are within easy reach
- Use bright, contrasting colors to mark steps or edges
- Keep a phone nearby for emergencies
- Regularly check for and remove any clutter
If your parent lives in a multi-level home, consider installing a chair lift. These allow your parent to safely ascend and descend the stairs. These changes can make a significant difference in your loved one’s routine and can help you maintain your peace of mind knowing they’re safe in their own home.
Use Mobility Aids to Promote Independence
The next step is to restore your loved one’s ability to safely navigate the environment, both inside and outside of the house.
Mobility aids help restore a sense of independence by allowing seniors to move around without relying on others. Give your parents tools like:
- Canes
- Crutches
- Walkers
- Rollators
- Wheelchairs
- Electric scooters
These devices are all designed to assist with movement, making your parent’s daily activities much more manageable. Meanwhile, they’ll be able to perform some of their favorite activities without needing assistance, which can enhance their sense of dignity and self-respect.
Prioritize Their Comfort & Well-Being
Your parent’s comfort and well-being should be a top priority at all times. When they can’t walk, they’ll likely be spending most of their time in bed, so this is the place to start.
An electric adjustable bed can let your parent tailor their position to their liking with the touch of a button. These beds can enhance their comfort and reduce the likelihood of bedsores.
Try to make your loved one’s bedroom more comfortable by:
- Providing soft, breathable bedding that’s gentle on the skin
- Ensuring that their room is well-lit, promoting a cheerful atmosphere
- Adding personal touches, such as family photos or favorite possessions
- Keeping essential items like water and books within easy reach
It’s equally important to encourage your parent to engage in any activities that stimulate their mind and boost their spirit. Encourage reading, listening to music, or practicing creative hobbies that can be done while seated.
By focusing on their comfort and engaging their interests, you create a nurturing environment that fosters happiness and contentment, allowing your elderly parent to thrive despite mobility challenges.
Consider a Move to Senior Living
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, it becomes challenging to provide the level of care our parents need at home. In such cases, a move to senior living might be the best option for everyone involved.
Remember—senior living communities aren’t about moving to a new place. They’re about finding a new home as part of a larger community that can meet their needs whenever necessary. Your parent can enjoy life in an environment designed to help them thrive.
Senior living communities give you access to a team of trained, compassionate caregivers who go above and beyond to help your loved one restore their independence and dignity. These caregivers can help with daily tasks and medication,, all to help improve your loved one’s quality of life.
It provides more than just compassionate caregiving, though. Senior living communities also offer a range of social activities and convenient amenities to help boost your parent’s physical and mental well-being. With endless opportunities to bond with others and enjoy their favorite hobbies, your parent can spend their days as they choose—regardless of their mobility.
Let Our Community Help
Caring for an elderly parent who can’t walk is no small task, but with the right approach and resources, it’s certainly manageable. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to start, remember that you don’t have to go through this alone.
Contact our team at Kingston Residence of Vermilion. We’re here to support you every step of the way, and we can offer a community where your loved one can thrive. Schedule a tour with our community to learn more!
