Supporting Mobility

Mobility is an essential part of a person’s independence. Participating in meaningful activities, access to food, and toileting all require the ability to move. Many factors can contribute to limited mobility, including the following.

• Conditions present at birth
• Illness
• Lack of regular exercise/movement
• Physical injury
• Medications

Mobility can also be reduced due to age-related changes in the following systems.

• Eyesight
• Hearing
• Sense of touch
• Muscle mass
• The nervous system

Limited mobility can have physical, mental, and emotional effects, including the following.

• Pressure injuries
• Urinary problems (incontinence or retention)
• Constipation
• Increased stress on the heart
• Muscle weakness
• Feelings of helplessness
• Depression
• Anxiety

Encouraging a client to stay mobile greatly impacts their physical and emotional well-being.