Understanding Mobility Issues in the Elderly - Identifying Early Symptoms and Taking Action

As we age, it's common to notice subtle changes in mobility.

For many older adults, these changes can start as mild discomfort or a sense of instability when moving. Over time, however, they may become more pronounced, potentially affecting daily life. Mobility challenges can appear gradually, but being aware of the early symptoms can help individuals and their families address these issues before they lead to a significant decline in quality of life.

Common Symptoms of Mobility Issues in Older Adults

Mobility issues in the elderly often manifest in ways that can be easy to overlook or attribute to "just getting older." Recognising the symptoms early on can make a substantial difference in maintaining independence. Some key early signs include:

• Difficulty Walking or Standing for Long Periods: An elderly person may start avoiding long walks or may find themselves needing to sit down more frequently when standing or waiting in line.
• Imbalance and Frequent Stumbles: If someone feels unsteady or notices they are stumbling more often, this could be an early indication of declining mobility. In some cases, these stumbles may result in falls, which are a leading cause of injury in older Australians.
• Joint Stiffness or Pain: Discomfort, especially in the knees, hips, or lower back, can restrict movement. This might be more noticeable after sitting for an extended period or first thing in the morning.
• Fatigue After Minimal Physical Activity: Elderly individuals may feel unusually tired after simple activities like walking to the letterbox or getting dressed, a sign that their body is working harder than it should.
• Reduced Confidence in Moving Around: If someone is hesitant to walk on uneven surfaces or avoids stairs altogether, it may be because they no longer trust their balance or mobility. This could also indicate a fear of falling.

Why Mobility Issues Matter

Mobility is essential for an active and independent life. When older adults experience difficulties moving, it can affect not just their physical health but also their emotional well-being. A loss of mobility can lead to isolation, depression, and a sense of helplessness, as everyday activities like grocery shopping, socialising, or even going for a walk become more challenging.

Moreover, falls are a serious concern. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, over one-third of people aged 65 and over will fall each year, often leading to fractures or hospitalisation. Many of these falls are preventable if mobility challenges are addressed early.

Bloom Healthcare's Approach to Mobility Challenges

At Bloom Healthcare, we believe in proactive care, ensuring that individuals experiencing mobility difficulties receive the right support to enhance their movement and confidence. Through our multidisciplinary approach, we provide various allied health services tailored to help older Australians manage and improve their mobility:

• Exercise Physiology: Specialised exercise programs designed by our exercise physiologists can strengthen muscles, improve balance, and enhance endurance, reducing the risk of falls and other mobility-related issues. These programs are evidence-based and tailored to the individual's specific needs.
• Physiotherapy: Our physiotherapists work with older adults to manage pain and stiffness through hands-on therapy, exercises, and movement education. Whether it's recovering from surgery or managing chronic conditions like arthritis, physiotherapy can help restore better movement and function.
• Occupational Therapy: For those who struggle with day-to-day activities, our occupational therapists assess and recommend strategies or assistive devices to make the home environment safer and more accessible, promoting independence.

These services are aligned with the goals of the NDIS, helping individuals access tailored support that empowers them to live more freely and confidently. We understand that early intervention can make all the difference in preventing mobility issues from escalating.

Recognising the Need for Support

If you or someone you care for is noticing any of these early mobility symptoms, it’s important to seek professional advice sooner rather than later.

Early intervention can help slow down the progression of mobility decline and even improve movement. Consulting with a healthcare professional—whether it’s a GP, physiotherapist, or exercise physiologist—can provide clarity on what steps to take next.

“Mobility issues in the elderly may start gradually, but they shouldn’t be ignored. Identifying the symptoms early allows for timely action and can help prevent falls, injuries, and a decline in quality of life. At Bloom Healthcare, our focus is on providing person-centred, evidence-based care that addresses these challenges holistically. By working together, we can help older adults stay active, independent, and empowered.”

– Sam Smith, Managing Director, Bloom Healthcare