- Arthritis: A common condition that causes pain and inflammation in joints, making it difficult for seniors to move around comfortably.
- Osteoporosis: This condition leads to weak and brittle bones, often resulting in fractures. A fracture can significantly reduce a senior’s mobility and independence.
- Parkinson’s Disease: A progressive nervous system disorder affecting movement. Symptoms often start gradually, sometimes with a barely noticeable tremor in one hand.
- Stroke: Stroke can lead to significant mobility issues, including paralysis or weakness on one side of the body.
- Cardiovascular Diseases: Conditions like heart disease and peripheral artery disease can reduce stamina, making it harder for individuals to move around.
- Diabetes: High blood sugar levels from diabetes can damage nerves and blood vessels over time, leading to poor circulation and decreased sensation in the lower extremities.
- Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Forms of Dementia: These conditions can affect a person’s ability to perform daily tasks, leading to confusion, getting lost, and falling.
- COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) and Other Respiratory Diseases: These conditions can reduce stamina and make it harder for people to be active.
- Vision Loss: Conditions like macular degeneration, glaucoma, and cataracts can affect balance and make it harder to navigate, leading to potential reductions in mobility.
- Cancer: Depending on the type and stage, cancer may cause fatigue, pain, or functional limitations that can affect mobility.
These conditions are not exhaustive, and many other health issues can affect mobility in seniors. It’s also worth noting that many seniors may have more than one of these conditions, further complicating their mobility issues.
