There is almost nothing as pleasant as a walk in the park on a perfect spring day. It can be the best time for a senior living in Cincinnati to enjoy the warmth of the sun, the sounds of birds, the scents of fresh flowers and pleasant vistas of tall trees and landscaped grounds. But as we get older, decreased mobility, arthritis pain, depth perception problems and fatigue can all take their toll.

But despite these issues, you still have every reason to keep making those outdoor excursions.

You’re not doing yourself any favors if you’ve severely limited the amount of time you spend out of the house due to arthritis or vision problems. A sedentary lifestyle can lead to a whole host of health and emotional problems down the road.

While you may not be able to recover your lost mobility completely, there are any number of senior healthcare technologies that can make it easier for you to get around confidently and regain your lost sense of freedom. Sometimes it might take a bit more planning or a measure of ingenuity, but Cincinnati seniors can enjoy the city's scenic beauty and natural attractions with just a little extra planning.

Regaining Independence

With self-esteem and financial considerations thrown into the mix, physical activity is a vital requirement for healthy living. If you or someone you care for has a mobility issue, you can find a measure of independence and activity restored.

Today, however, there is such a variety of helpful devices that there is little reason to curtail familiar and desirable activities.

On top of the traditional walking aids, there are even a number of devices that allow seniors to continue swimming, golfing, yoga and any other physical activities or hobbies that they enjoy. Medical mobility devices are available to allow any senior living in the area to participate in outdoor activities, enjoy cultural and sporting events, go shopping, dine out and participate in group outings at many of the city's favorite locations.

If your mobility issue is temporary one, you can rent some devices on a short-term basis from many agencies.

Assistive Devices for Temporary or Long-Term Mobility Issues

Whether decreased mobility is a temporary—the result of a fall or surgery—or a chronic condition that limits the ability to move without pain, there are tools that can help you manage the problem.

• Rollators are specifically designed for seniors on the go—and many have baskets that allow you to carry items with you.
• Some walkers offer integrated folding seats that allow frequent stops for rest
• Motorized power chairs and mobility scooters offer seniors with more severe mobility issues the ability to get out and about.

If you have a device like these, you don’t have to remain homebound when the weather or the "spirit" calls you to action.

Some of the available devices are so stylish that you may find yourself the envy of savvy youngsters as you roll by on your bright orange motorized "Trike" in Eden Park or at the Botanical Gardens.

Aging Generation Spurs Action

A recent study by the Brookings Institution addresses some of the mobility and transportation needs of a rapidly expanding older population of Americans. It is not a temporary situation, and the current crop of aging Baby Boomers points out the need for innovative solutions in elder care. Senior living facilities are cognizant of the needs for planning to deal with their residents' impaired mobility. The Brookings study recognizes also that today's seniors are heavily dependent on private cars, and acknowledges the problems this reliance will create when a large number of those citizens give up their licenses.

Current estimates are that the current population of older Americans will double in the next 25 years. Making plans for dealing with their changing needs and circumstances is a vital part of smart retirement planning. Part of that planning should involve the possibility of dealing with some mobility issues.