Mobility in Dementia-More Issues

Recently, when I was assisting Mom in her daily walking, she said "this feels good". I was on cloud nine, so to speak!! This came to a screeching halt, moments later when she said "this hurts, God in heaven, can you help me?" Of course, I do not wish to have Mom suffer, but I do know the research and how important it is to keep people with dementia moving. It is very much a "move it or loose it" scenario. What is the compromise? Almost 2 years ago we were told Mom was not safe to walk by a physical therapist. My response was to take responsibility for her daily walk. She now walks 50-60 feet not 150 feet that she was walking 2 years ago, but she IS still walking and she has never fallen. Mom also participates in the morning exercises if she is not dozing in the chair!! So Mom, in spite of her progressed dementia, is fairly active.

We have talked previously about the research and the positive effects that walking and other excising presents for the elderly in general, and also for our loved ones with Alzheimer's disease and other dementia's. Whether it is the issue of keeping muscles and tendons from contracting and becoming immobile, or keeping good skin integrity through better circulation, or producing more positive hormones in the body such a serotonin and endorphins in small amounts, among other positive effects, keeping the body active is extremely helpful. There of course, must be a balance between safety and mobility, but it must be remembered that keeping active in itself prevents falls and thus increases safety. Life and dementia are both ultimately about finding this balance.

May God keep her in the palm of Her hand.