It is no surprise that older people are more likely to have disabilities. In one study of 3,800 women over age 65 it was found that the majority of them were unable to do at least some tasks of average daily living; 50% had difficulty with such activities as walking two or three blocks or doing 'heavy' housework, like cleaning floors. One-fourth could not lift a ten-pound bag of groceries and nearly one out of five older women had trouble bathing or showering.
How did women adapt to disability that came with age? Many of them simply did not do the tasks that caused them difficulty. For example, walking up ten stairs became more difficult with age, and as women became older they did it less often. Options for women with difficulty climing stairs include moving into apartments on the first floor, using the elevator in stores, sending their children and grandchildren upstairs or downstairs to 'fetch things' .
Action Tip 1: For elders with disabilities and those who care for them
Rearrange your living space so you have the bathroom, bedroom and kitchen all on the same floor. This eases daily living for a person who has problems using stairs. Look into getting a walk-in shower so there is no need to step up or stoop down to get into the shower or bath. Another option is to install rails and/or a chair in the bath or shower.
Action Tip 2: Provide proper chairs and cushions
An individual who becomes bed-bound is more likely to suffer from a number of illnesses, including depression and pneumonia. Curvature of the spine increases as people age, especially women, and may make sitting uncomfortable. An air, gel or foam cushion can be used to make sitting easier.
Action Tip 3: Think Preventive Health
This covers a lot of areas, from making sure you have enough physical activity, good nutrition and prevention of common problems in older adults with disabilities, such as falls or pressure sores, that may cause further impairment in health and function.
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