Five Steps to Getting Your Elder Dad Out of His Chair and Outside for a Walk

Switching from a role of a child who has a parent to a child who is parenting a parent is rough. You’ve noticed your elder dad sits in his chair watching movies after retirement. He rarely goes outside and never takes walks. You’re concerned for his health, but you also don’t want to cause tension between you. What do you do?

Elder Care Lexington NC – Five Steps to Getting Your Elder Dad Out of His Chair and Outside for a Walk

Talk to His Doctor

Is there a reason your dad won’t get out of his chair? Does he have joint pain? Muscle aches? Swelling in the feet that make shoes not fit? Have his toenails gotten too long for his shoes to feel comfortable? Rule out discomfort as a reason why he prefers to sit in his chair.

Take Baby Steps

You won’t convince your dad to get up and walk a mile on the first day you try. Be prepared to take small steps and build up from there. Start with a walk to the end of the driveway for a few days. Gradually increase it to a walk to the corner of the property, an intersecting road near his house, a walk to a neighboring property, and keep going until he can walk his block or to the end of his street.

Turn Walks Into a Family Gathering

Instead of telling your dad he needs to take a walk for his health, ask him to join the family on a walk together. If it helps, turn it into a scavenger hunt and appeal to his competitive side by saying you know he’s the best choice for your team.

Go Somewhere Exciting

Your dad may not walk around his neighborhood because he finds the scenery boring. Invite him to go to one of your local trail systems or a nature preserve. He can pair a walk through the woods or along a lake or river with a fun activity like bird watching. Bring his grandkids and go to a playground that has nearby trails.

Plant a Garden Together

When all else fails, plant a garden with your dad. He may not look at the time spent tending to weeds, checking for insect pests, and harvesting crops as exercising.

Talk to an elder home care agency about having a caregiver spend time each week getting your dad outside. In addition to providing companionship and mobility services, an elder home care professional can also assist with difficult tasks like laundry, light housework, and meal preparation. Call today.

If you or an aging loved one are considering Elder Care Services in Lexington NC, please contact the caring staff at Tender Hearted Home Care today. (704) 612-4132.