I'd like to hear from others about that transition time of when their elders could walk, to when they couldn't anymore.
Within the next few months or one-year my dad will likely be there - I'm probably environment, assistance, financially prepared, but not emotionally. To be frank, how long was the "bedridden" period? Does it just vary all over the place? I think I'm more prepared to for the day he passes, rather than the days, weeks, months, years (?) just before.
The docs seem wholly unprepared with advice or info about this, but I think other caregivers will have plenty to share. Thanks "in advance."
I realize that keeping your dad walking is a great goal, but I would be careful that he is able to do it safely. My loved had too many balance problems on top of weak bones and muslces and kept falling and breaking bones. Walking was just not safe for her anymore.
I actually think my loved one felt relief when going to the wheelchair, because she was so afraid of falling again.
Ver
Any suggestions?
Also, you can look into a "hoveround" wheelchair that is electric. 24/7 care is a little intrusive at first, but after a while things settle into themselves.
Good luck,
wf
Goodluck.
I've done some research, and it seems to be sarcopenia, the fancy term for losing muscle with age. It seems to accelerate rapidly above 80, which my dad is. The only counteracting forces is some resistance training, even just once a week, so we will try that.
Otherwise it seems that with age, the cells in the body don't process protein-to-muscle well, and there's not much to counteract that via diet, meds. Since he likes nuts anyway, we'll pretty much give him carde-blanch on peanuts to snack on to increase his protein intake.
If he were to be in a wheelchair, he wouldn't have the arm strength to move it around. We'd really have to have someone with him 24-7 then it seems. Right now, he "hugs" the walls as he walks around now, so we've arranged furniture as needed to clear his paths. Unfortunately I rent my place, otherwise I'd put up arm rails all around.
We've made a "snack" station that is a little above waist level for him to pour himself something to drink and to place snacks. It's right near his room..a bit of encouragement to get "up and out" and moving at least a little.
You know, babies at least get to transition smoothly from crawling to toddling, but at least in this respect, growing old -- doesn't seem to have as nice a transition.
I once saw on a TV special about taking care of elders in Japan, a community center had a walking-lap pool that was heated and with water at chest height and hand rails inside the pool with railed-stairs down from ground level. Has anyone ever seen such a great accommodation in the U.S? Or are we just so far behind?
One question: Is the inability to walk due to strength, muscle issues or something else? Is a walker a possible option. My mother used a walker for several years before needing a full time wheel chair. Also, a combination of a wheel chair and walker are possible.
If you father does move to a wheel chair, it is important he get out of it as much as possible. A "lift chair" can help with the transitions. A visiting nurse and/or PT is an excellent idea.
One thing I recommend if your father does require a wheel chair is to invest some time rearranging his closets, cabinets, etc., especially in the kitchen. Just moving staples, glasses and dishes to waste height can make all the difference in the world.
wf
If your parent still has some leg strength and arm strength, a wheel chair is a good option. your dad should be able to get physical or occupational therapy-paid by medicare - to help him learn to "pull" with his feet, roll and turn with his hands. My mom goes slow but she still gets around under her own power. It's a small bit of independence but it helps keep her as active as possible and she feels good that she can get around to the table, toilet, etc. There is some added difficulty getting TO the toilet, sometimes she needs help but an aide and grab bars are always close by.
If your dad will be bedridden in your home, ask his doctor to prescribe a home health nurse for a week or two to help train YOU. you need to understand how & when to turn him, how to move him without hurting yourself, how to use a bedpan, how to bathe him. You should also be very aware of pressure (or bed) sores whether he's in a wheelchair or bedridden these can be quite painful and become septic and fetid.
It's very wise of you to seek advice from others. Doing something like this is hard work -physically and emotionally. Best of luck to you and your father.