I looked at my sorta bio at the top of the page. I am NOT taking care of anyone except my self and I wonder what kind of job I am doing.
I did take care of my much older husband. He died 5 years ago and I am now living in an Independent Sr apartment in Vancouver, WA
My daughter takes me to the store and the VA appointments, which are not often. I am thankful for that.
I use a walker, My knees hurt and that is my main mobility problem. Thanks. Verna
If there is anywhere nearby that has warm water exercises, that would be absolutely ideal for you. Ask your doctor for recommendations.
It is so wise of you to be concerned about getting some exercise. Good for you!
As I live in a very cold climate, 5 months of winter, I don't get out to walk much. I was finding my knees getting worse, so I decided I had to walk in the house. I built up to doing 30 minutes of walking most days of the week additional to normal daily activities.. The trick is to set a goal, but not to expect to reach it right away - start with "baby steps". Maybe do 5 minutes in the morning and 5 in the evening till you feel stronger, then add more minutes and so on. Start with whatever feels OK to you. This builds up your leg muscles which takes the strain off your joints (knees). I am now doing the 30 minutes and l notice a real improvement in my knees. Doing stairs is much easier and less painful. Muscle can be built up at any age and when muscle gets built up it supports the joints. My mother, who is 102, has several bad discs, but she has good body muscles so her back does not bother her.
Let me know if you try it and if it helps. It has taken a few months for me to notice a difference, but is well worth it for my knees and I feel brighter too. I care give my mother at a distance, but I care give me too, so I understand. (((((((((hugs))))))))
It takes concentration to tighten, breathe, release each muscle. It can help as it's meditative as well.
Lastly, get your Vitamin D level checked, as often it is low especially in the winter when you don't get as much sun. It can make you feel hopeless, down in the dumps if you don't have enough Vitamin D to make you feel motivated to exercise.
Transportation Assistance
rideconnection/ride/Services/RideWise.aspx
RideWise program teaches older adults and people with disabilities to travel independently and safely on public transportation. The services are provided at no charge for those who qualify and encompass all forms of public transportation (bus, light rail).
They offer a wide range of services tailored to meet your specific needs, and ability level.
One-on-one travel training is our short-term, practical and individualized instruction to teach older adults and people with disabilities to travel safely and independently using public transportation.
Group travel training is available for people receiving support through transition programs, older adult residential facilities, community centers and more. These outings are designed to encourage the use of public transportation by choosing a familiar destination. The training is designed to be in a social, relaxed environment for customers to “learn the ropes.”
Riders Club trips are designed to give our customers more opportunities to become comfortable with the public transit system by creating fun adventures that include riding fixed route to and from the destination. Activity directors at residential facilities and senior centers coordinate these regularly scheduled trips.
For people new to a mobility device, our vehicle familiarization service is designed for individuals who need assistance and practical experience boarding TriMet buses and MAX cars. This training takes place when the vehicles are not in service.
Who provides the training?
The training is provided by our qualified travel trainers. All of our instructors go through a strict screening process and receive extensive training before working with our customers.
How much does it cost?
All training and related support is provided at NO charge to older adults and people with disabilities living in Multnomah, Clackamas or Washington County.
Where is the training?
Our travel trainers will provide training ANYWHERE in Multnomah, Clackamas and Washington County at a time and location that is convenient for you.
Who is eligible to receive training?
If you are an older adult (60+) or person with a disability and live in Multnomah, Clackamas or Washington County, you can request training.
How do I get started?
Good Luck!
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