Why Is Getting Out of a Chair Becoming Harder After 65?
Have you noticed that Mom needs to push harder on the armrests to stand up? Or that Dad rocks back and forth several times before getting out of his favorite recliner?
Maybe you have noticed these changes in yourself.
Getting up from a chair is something most of us do many times a day without thinking about it. But as we get older, this simple movement can become more difficult.
The important thing to know is that difficulty standing up should not automatically be dismissed as a normal part of aging.
Why Does Standing Up Become Harder?
Standing from a seated position requires strength in your legs, good balance, joint movement, and coordination.
Several factors can make this task more challenging.
1. Weakening leg muscles
Your thigh and hip muscles help lift your body from a seated position. When these muscles become weaker, standing may require more effort.
2. Knee, hip, or back pain
Arthritis, stiffness, or pain may make it uncomfortable to bend forward, push through your legs, or straighten your body.
3. Spending too much time sitting
When older adults become less active because of illness, cold weather, or fear of falling, their muscles may gradually lose strength.
4. Balance problems
Some people have enough strength to stand but feel unsteady once they are on their feet. They may grab nearby furniture or need someone to help them.
5. Recent illness or hospitalization
After spending several days in bed or moving less than usual, even previously independent older adults may struggle with basic activities.
Five Signs Families Should Pay Attention To
Watch for these changes:
Needing several attempts to stand from a chair
Pulling on furniture or another person's arm to get up
Avoiding low chairs, sofas, or toilets
Losing balance immediately after standing
Needing more help with dressing, bathing, or using the bathroom
These changes may increase the risk of falls and reduce independence at home.
If the difficulty is new, worsening, or accompanied by pain, dizziness, or other symptoms, contact a healthcare provider.
What Can Help?
The right approach depends on the cause.
Choose a supportive chair. A sturdy chair with armrests and an appropriate seat height may make standing easier. Avoid chairs that slide or roll.
Keep moving safely. Regular movement helps maintain muscle strength and mobility. Ask your healthcare provider which activities are appropriate for you.
Use walking aids correctly. If you use a walker or cane, follow your therapist's instructions. Do not pull yourself up using an unsecured walker.
Pay attention to dizziness. If you feel lightheaded when standing, sit back down safely and discuss the symptoms with your healthcare provider.
Ask about physical therapy. A physical therapist can assess strength, balance, joint movement, and the ability to stand and walk safely.
How Can Physical Therapy Help?
Physical therapy is not just about exercise.
For older adults having difficulty standing, a physical therapist may assess how they move, identify contributing problems, and develop an individualized treatment plan.
Depending on the person's needs, treatment may include:
Strengthening leg and hip muscles
Practicing safe sit-to-stand movements
Improving standing balance
Training in safe walker or cane use
Teaching family members how to provide appropriate assistance
The goal is to help older adults move more safely and maintain as much independence as possible.
Can Medicare Cover Physical Therapy at Home?
For eligible Medicare beneficiaries, home health physical therapy may be covered when medically necessary and when Medicare home health requirements are met.
These generally include being homebound, needing qualifying skilled services, and receiving care under an appropriate provider-ordered plan.
Coverage is not automatic, and not everyone who has difficulty standing will qualify for home health services.
Your healthcare provider can help determine whether home health physical therapy or outpatient physical therapy is appropriate.
Small Changes in Movement Deserve Attention
If Mom or Dad is having more difficulty getting out of a chair, do not wait until a fall occurs to discuss the problem.
Recognizing changes early gives families an opportunity to understand what is happening and seek appropriate help.
Need Help With Strength, Balance, or Walking at Home?
Project Health Corp is a Medicare-certified, CHAP-accredited home health agency serving Northern Virginia.
Our physical therapy team helps eligible older adults address weakness, mobility difficulties, balance problems, and home safety concerns.
Call 703-899-4109 to discuss your home health needs.
Visit www.projecthealth.us
Project Health Corp — Balance, Strength, and Independence for Life.