As we age, maintaining our independence and staying active becomes increasingly important, especially for our mums. In Singapore, where the population is rapidly ageing, it's essential to find ways to support older adults in staying mobile and engaged with their surroundings. Mum’s wellbeing doesn't just hinge on maintaining physical health, but also mental and emotional vitality. With the right tools, support, and a proactive approach, it’s possible to help Mum stay active, mobile, and independent well beyond her 60s.
Encouraging regular physical activity
Regular exercise is crucial to keeping Mum’s body strong and flexible as she ages. Exercise not only improves mobility but also enhances mood and overall quality of life. However, it's essential to choose activities that are suitable for her physical abilities. Activities like walking, swimming, or even chair exercises can provide a solid foundation for maintaining an active lifestyle.
One of the most beneficial aspects of physical activity in older age is its role in preventing falls. By strengthening muscles and improving balance, exercise significantly reduces the risk of falls, which are a major concern for seniors. If your mum is new to exercise or hasn’t been active for a while, starting slow and gradually increasing intensity is key. It might also be worth exploring PMA in Singapore, which focuses on personal mobility assistance to help seniors improve their balance and strength in a supportive and controlled environment.
Ensuring easy access to mobility aids
Sometimes, as we age, our bodies don’t move as effortlessly as they once did. For many seniors, mobility aids can be a game-changer in terms of enhancing independence. Walking aids, like rollators or walking frames, can make getting around much easier and safer for Mum.
In Singapore, there’s no shortage of mobility aids that can help Mum stay on her feet longer and feel secure while walking. These tools aren’t just about mobility; they are about empowering older adults to go about their daily routines without constant help. It's important to find the right mobility aid that suits Mum’s specific needs—something lightweight yet sturdy, easy to use, and comfortable. Some aids even come with extra features, like baskets or trays, so Mum can still manage her groceries or other small tasks independently.
For longer trips or outdoor excursions, a lightweight mobility scooter or a powered wheelchair might be necessary. These aids give Mum the freedom to visit friends, shop, or explore the outdoors, while avoiding the fatigue or strain that can come with walking long distances.
Making the home environment safe and accessible
The home is often the place where we feel most comfortable, but as Mum ages, certain adjustments may need to be made to ensure her space remains safe and accessible. Slippery floors, cluttered walkways, or poorly-lit hallways can pose significant risks to an older person. To support Mum’s independence, start by creating an environment that reduces these risks.
Start by installing grab bars in the bathroom, especially near the toilet and in the shower, to help Mum maintain her balance. Additionally, ensure that furniture is easy to navigate around, with no obstacles blocking her path. Simple changes like non-slip mats, well-placed lighting, and keeping the floors clutter-free can make a huge difference.
A few modern solutions, such as smart lighting or automatic door openers, can further enhance Mum’s independence. Smart lighting allows her to move around the house without needing to worry about flipping switches, while automated doors make it easier to go in and out of rooms without exerting too much physical effort.
Supporting mental and emotional health
Physical health is undeniably important, but Mum’s mental and emotional wellbeing should never be overlooked. As we age, loneliness and isolation can creep in, especially if mobility becomes a barrier to socialising. Helping Mum maintain strong social connections and find ways to keep her mind active is just as important as encouraging physical exercise.
Encourage Mum to join community groups, participate in social activities, or engage in hobbies she enjoys. Whether it’s crafting, gardening, or a book club, finding something that sparks her interest will keep her mentally sharp and emotionally fulfilled, helping her live a more independent life. In Singapore, there are various community-based activities and senior-friendly classes that cater to different interests and abilities. Look into local social groups, volunteer opportunities, or even online communities that might help her form lasting friendships and connections.
Making use of technology for independence
Technology can be a great ally in promoting independence and helping Mum stay engaged. From using video calls to stay in touch with family and friends, to online fitness classes designed for seniors, technology has the potential to enrich her daily life. In Singapore, the government’s push for digital inclusion has made it easier for older adults to access resources and services online, from booking transport to learning new skills.
For example, Mum can try using a tablet or smartphone to follow along with guided exercises, attend virtual classes, or even enjoy virtual tours of places she might not be able to visit physically. Additionally, wearables like fitness trackers or smartwatches with emergency buttons can offer peace of mind, ensuring that she’s just a call away from help if needed.
Staying motivated and setting goals
Finally, it’s crucial to keep Mum motivated as she navigates the challenges of ageing. Setting small, achievable goals will give her a sense of accomplishment and boost her confidence. Whether it’s walking a certain distance each day or mastering a new hobby, celebrating these milestones will keep her spirits high and encourage her to stay active.
As a family, we can also play a role by participating in these activities together, offering encouragement and celebrating Mum’s successes. It’s important to provide a sense of camaraderie and support, especially when some of the tasks might feel daunting at first.
In conclusion
Helping Mum stay active, mobile, and independent after 60 requires a blend of physical, emotional, and social support. By encouraging regular activity, ensuring her home is safe, and leveraging the right mobility aids, Mum can maintain her autonomy and enjoy life to the fullest. If you’re looking for ways to make her life easier, Falcon Mobility (rebranding to ELFIGO) offers a wide range of solutions that can help Mum live more independently.