Maintaining self-care with limited mobility

What is self-care?

Self-care is just what it sounds like – taking care of yourself. It is the practice of deliberately doing things that would preserve or improve your mental and physical health. If you have limited mobility, self-care is also about understanding your condition and how to live with it.

Why is it so important?

It is an important part of living a happy and healthy lifestyle as looking after yourself both mentally and physically is crucial to taking control of your health. It is also about making a commitment to putting yourself first.

Self-care has been shown to improve mental and physical health, reduce stress and anxiety, boost self-esteem, and can lead to better relationships to the people around you.

Exercise

You do not need to have full mobility to exercise and experience the health benefits of it. Exercising releases endorphins that relieves stress, boost self-esteem and energizes your mood. It is important to speak to your healthcare team about the activities suitable for your medical condition or mobility limitations, start slow and stay safe when exercising.

Below are some types of exercises for people with limited mobility:

• Cardiovascular exercises include walking, using an arm bicycle, low impact aerobics and swimming. It is still possible to participate and perform cardiovascular exercises when confined to a wheelchair.
• Flexibility exercises include stretching and yoga. Even just leg stretches for people with limited mobility can enhance range of motion, reduce stiffness, and prevent or delay further muscle atrophy.
• Strength training exercises involve using light weights or other resistance to build muscle. If you have limited mobility on your upper body, your focus will be strengthening your lower body and vice versa.
• Sitting exercises such as neck stretches and rotations, hip marching, arm raises can help improve mobility and prevent falls.

Keeping a good diet

A healthy and balanced diet can affect the way you feel physically and mentally. It can also affect your sleep. Ensuring that you are finding a balance in your eating habits and investing time into preparing meals such as a brain-boosting breakfast are ways to maintaining self-care. Don’t forget to ensure that you are also drinking lots of water and fluids throughout your day.

Self-care and a good diet means being aware of what you put into your body. Thus, having delicious treats here and there won’t hurt.

Stay social and avoid isolation

Whether face to face or through technology, be sure to catch up with your family and friends. This not only reduces the feeling of loneliness but also allows you to gain the support you need when you need to talk to someone.

Being part of a book club or groups that shares the same hobbies as you can help in avoiding isolation. The internet is filled with lots of communities of people who are doing and talking about fascinating topics. You might find one that suits you. However, it is important not to rely on social media alone to build relationships.

Get enough and quality rest

Adults need at least 7 hours of sleep every night and children need more. Thus, it is important to get a good night’s sleep. Sleep increases energy, focus and concentration. Sleep quality is more important than sleep quantity.

Quality sleep will come with making sleep a priority, following a consistent sleep routine, establishing a relaxing bedtime routine, avoiding large meals right before bedtime, only eating a light snack if hungry at bedtime and keeping the bedroom dark for sleep.

Keep your mind active

Self-care is also about giving the mind a good workout. Thus, whether it is learning and understanding more about your disability or condition, playing an instrument, playing games or trying new things, it is important to keep your mind active.

It can be easy to put other’s need before yourself. However, you must look after your own health too! We are all built differently. Thus, the same goes with our interests and there is no perfect self-care activity. Finding a routine that fits you is important.

How can Cavendish Homecare help?

At Cavendish Homecare we are experts in providing private care for clients who want to remain in their own homes. When it comes to your health and well-being, choosing the right homecare package is of utmost importance and navigating this process can be overwhelming. With Cavendish Homecare by your side, you’ll have the support you need to remain safely at home while enjoying elevated health and wellbeing.

If you would like to enquire about our services, contact us on, 02030085210 or email us at info@cavendishhomecare.com.