Moses Dixon of Central Massachusetts Agency on Aging on Encouraging a Senior with Limited Mobility to Spend Time Outside

There are various physical and mental obstacles that can prevent older adults from being outside. For people with mobility problems, going outside can be an overwhelming experience. Aside from being able to breathe fresh air, regular changes in one’s surroundings can also help decrease complacency and boredom. In this article are tips for getting your senior loved one outside.

Have the Right Equipment

Getting around safely within the home and outside is essential, as the fear of falling may keep you from moving around. Even though a senior may find it enjoyable to leave, they may not feel that the preparation and effort are worthwhile. When using a mobility aid or another person, they may experience frustration and embarrassment.

If a loved one has mobility problems, such as transferring or walking difficulties, it is important that they are assessed and equipped with the appropriate equipment. Despite the negative perceptions about mobility aids, it is still important to note that they are designed to improve a seniors’ safety and extend their independence. If they are wheelchair-bound, they should still be able to get outside with the proper equipment and planning.

Practice Patience

Family members aim to provide the best possible lives for loved ones, but it can be hard sometimes when older adults are at home. Remember that your expectations should be realistic to make it easier for adults. Generally, it’s fine for older adults to spend their time sitting near an open window. However, in some cases, a caregiver might need to provide a bit of tough love to encourage them to get outside.

Get Creative

You can make the most of the outdoors by incorporating some of your favorite indoor activities and hobbies into the mix. If they enjoy making art, you may be able to supply them with supplies placed on the porch or near an open window. If they love listening to music, you can arrange outdoor shows or concerts in their area.

A small garden or flowers can be a great way to introduce seniors to nature. They can enjoy watching as new plants grow and change each day, and they can get in touch with the natural world. This can lead to a trip to the garden center or a visit to a nearby botanical garden, where they can pick up new plants.

ABOUT MOSES DIXON OF WORCESTER, MA

Living and working in Worcester, Massachusetts, Moses Dixon is the CEO of the Central Massachusetts Agency on Aging, who believes heavily in building and developing his community for the benefit of all of his neighbors.

Currently, Moses Dixon is the CEO of the Central Massachusetts Agency on Aging, an organization focused on enhancing the quality of life for older individuals and caregivers alike throughout central Massachusetts. The Agency seeks to provide a variety of services to older citizens, including legal assistance, transportation, nutrition, and crisis intervention.

He is also a member of Belmont AME Zion Church, he serves on the Board of Governors for the YMCA of Central Massachusetts, and he is a Board Member of the Main South Community Development Corporation.

Throughout his time building experience in professional development and community service, Moses Dixon has held a number of positions. He served as a Legislative Fellow with the United States Senate Diversity Initiative for more than a year in Washington D.C. serving the office of Senator Harry Reid, a role he continued as Senator Reid became the United States Senate Majority Leader. He also spent time as a Door Keeper for the United States Senate Deputy Sergeant at Arms from 2010 to 2011, serving the personal Office of U.S. Senate Deputy Sergeant at Arms Martina L. Bradford. He also assisted Sarai Rivera, a City Councilor in Worcester, Massachusetts, from 2012 to 2013, followed by time spent aiding Mary Keefe in the Massachusetts House of Representatives as her Legislative Aide from 2013 to 2014.