If your senior parent has been diagnosed with osteoporosis, it could be impacting their ability to take care of themselves at home. When seniors live independently it’s very common for medical conditions or age-related symptoms to impact their ability to do things like cook and clean for themselves. Elder care services can help.
If you notice that your mom or dad seems to be having trouble with things like keeping the house clean, doing the laundry, or keeping the pantry stocked, an elder care aide can visit your mom or dad regularly to help them do tasks that have become difficult.
If your mom or dad has osteoporosis they must have help with household tasks because a fall could cause them to break bones or get seriously hurt. Seniors who have osteoporosis may become unable to do certain household tasks because of the pain, poor posture, and other effects of osteoporosis.
The most common problems that seniors with osteoporosis have trying to live independently are:
Back Pain
One of the most common symptoms of osteoporosis is back pain. This pain often comes from fractures in the spine. These fractures can happen from simple activities like bending over or coughing.
The pain can be severe and constant, making it hard for seniors to move comfortably. If the pain is strong enough, it can prevent them from doing everyday tasks like cooking, cleaning, or even getting out of bed.
Stooped Posture
A stooped or hunched posture, also called a “dowager’s hump,” is common in people with osteoporosis. This happens when the vertebrae in the spine become weakened and compressed.
A stooped posture can make it difficult for seniors to stand or walk upright. It can also cause pain and discomfort when trying to sit or bend over, limiting their ability to care for themselves, such as picking up objects or getting dressed.
Bone Fractures
Seniors with osteoporosis are at a higher risk of fractures, even from small falls or minor bumps. A bone might break simply from stepping on a curb or reaching for an object. Common fractures happen in the wrist, hip, or spine.
A broken bone can make it extremely difficult for a senior to move around, cook, clean, or perform personal care tasks like bathing. Recovering from a fracture can take weeks or months, during which time they may need help with daily activities.
Difficulty Moving
Osteoporosis can make it difficult for seniors to move freely. When bones become weak, they may experience pain or discomfort when standing, walking, or bending.
This can affect their ability to complete basic tasks like getting in and out of bed, using the bathroom, or walking from room to room. The fear of falling and breaking a bone may also make them more hesitant to move, which can lead to even more limited mobility.
Loss of Balance
Seniors with osteoporosis may experience a loss of balance due to weak bones and changes in posture. This increases the risk of falling, especially when standing up quickly or walking without support.
If a senior has trouble balancing, they may avoid walking or performing tasks that require movement, such as cooking, cleaning, or shopping. This loss of balance can make it harder to maintain independence and could increase the need for assistance from caregivers.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Elder Care Services in Gainesboro TN, please get in touch with the caring staff at Senior Solutions Home Care. (931) 208-1019
Senior Solutions Home Care is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Cookeville, Algood, Baxter, Monterey, Sparta, Smithville, Livingston, Dodson Branch, Gainesboro, Putnam County, and surrounding areas.
Over the years, we have expanded, providing service in all 95 counties throughout Tennessee, and we now have a growing presence in Georgia.
Senior Solutions is recognized as a top 5% independent agency and a three-time Inc. 5000 honoree in 2018, 2019, and 2020. These types of awards matter to us because they show growth in our goal of eventually touching a million lives. We’re excited to continue that growth and to touch even more families with our commitment to quality care!
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