What Causes Some Older People to Shuffle as They Walk?
Dear Carol: My dad was never a fast walker, but lately he’s been shuffling along like the aging stereotypes. He has severe arthritis, so I know pain is a factor, but this is different than when he limps from an arthritis flare. When I told him that I’d noticed that lately he’s been shuffling as he walks, he said that he’s “getting older” and I need to expect changes. If age is the only reason for his shuffling, I’m okay with it, but this change seems rather extreme. – SL
Dear SL: How a person walks can indicate any number of health-related issues so it’s good that you noticed this change. In fact, doctors sometimes ask an older adult to walk for them so that they can note gait changes that might indicate problems. So, let’s look at some potential reasons for these changes: Environment: You didn’t specify if your dad shuffled inside as well as outside, but if he only does so outside, remember…
Minding Our Elders: Caregivers Share Their Personal Stories. “For anyone having to walk the last segments of life with a loved one, read this.” …Delores
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