Ageing with a Physical Impairment | Provider Hub

Individuals born with a physical impairment or those who receive an early diagnosis are at a higher risk of having a shorter lifespan and being disregarded when it comes to addressing additional health issues. Similarly, individuals who develop physical impairments over time may also face oversight, with the focus on their diagnosed long-term condition potentially overshadowing other health needs.

Muscle strength and joint flexibility may decline more rapidly, complicating mobility and daily activities. Mental health can also be affected, with heightened risks of stress, anxiety, and depression. Additionally, the need for specialised healthcare services grows and accessibility challenges in housing, transportation, and social support become more pronounced.

However, ageing is a natural process that brings unique challenges. As we grow older, our bodies and minds undergo transformations, shaping our experiences and perspectives. From physical health to emotional resilience, ageing is a multifaceted journey.

Ageing can significantly impact individuals with physical impairments from birth, often leading to an increased risk of secondary conditions like arthritis and cardiovascular issues. Addressing these multifaceted needs is crucial for maintaining a good quality of life and supporting healthy ageing.

Remember that each person’s experience is unique, and a holistic approach to ageing includes physical, emotional, and social well-being. Support networks, adaptive strategies, and healthcare play vital roles in promoting quality of life.

Crib sheet - Implications of ageing with a physical impairment

Here are some common physical impairments but this is not an exhaustive list. Remember to research any condition that someone has that you are supporting, to ensure that you fully understand the implications of the condition and the impact of ageing. This will enable you to tailor and personalise the support you give them.

Manifestation: SCI results from damage to the spinal cord, leading to loss of sensation, muscle control, and function below the injury site.
Implications for Ageing:

Mobility Challenges: Ageing with SCI may involve increased mobility limitations due to muscle weakness, spasticity, or paralysis.

Pressure Sores: Prolonged sitting or lying can cause pressure sores, which are more common in older adults with SCI.

Secondary Health Conditions: SCI increases the risk of secondary health issues like urinary tract infections, respiratory problems, and osteoporosis.

Changes in bowel and bladder management - bowel function may decline, manifesting in symptoms like constipation, impaired digestion of certain foods, and decreased nutrient absorption. These challenges often necessitate the use of bowel medications and may increase the risk of conditions such as haemorrhoids and gallbladder disease. Effective management involves adopting a healthy diet, adhering to a consistent bowel program, and considering alternative approaches if managing bowel function becomes problematic.

Manifestation: MS is an autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system, leading to inflammation, demyelination, and neurological symptoms.
Implications for Ageing:

Fatigue: MS-related fatigue can worsen with age, impacting daily functioning.

Mobility Decline: Progressive MS may cause mobility decline, affecting walking, balance, and coordination.

Cognitive Changes: Cognitive impairment, memory issues, and mood changes can occur.

Manifestation: MD comprises a group of genetic disorders causing progressive muscle weakness and wasting.
Implications for Ageing:

Muscle Degeneration: MD leads to muscle loss, affecting mobility and strength.

Respiratory Challenges: Respiratory muscles weaken, potentially requiring ventilatory support.

Cardiac Issues: Some MD types, impact heart function, necessitating cardiac monitoring.

Manifestation: Post polio syndrome occurs years after recovering from polio. It involves muscle fatigue, weakness, and pain.
Implications for Ageing:

Muscle Fatigue: Ageing with post-polio syndrome exacerbates muscle fatigue and weakness.

Joint Pain: Joint pain and osteoarthritis are common.
Energy Conservation: Managing energy levels becomes crucial.
Social Support: Emotional well-being and social support play a vital role.

Manifestation: CP is a group of motor disorders caused by brain damage during early development. It affects muscle control, coordination, and movement.
Implications for Ageing:

Mobility Challenges: Ageing individuals with CP may experience increased muscle stiffness, joint contractures, and difficulty walking.

Pain Management: Chronic pain due to muscle spasms and skeletal deformities can impact daily life.

Social Inclusion: Maintaining social connections and mental well-being is crucial.

Manifestation: RA is an autoimmune disease causing joint inflammation, pain, and stiffness.
Implications for Ageing:

Joint Degeneration: RA worsens over time, leading to joint damage and reduced mobility.

Fatigue: Chronic fatigue affects daily activities.

Medication Management: Balancing pain relief and potential side effects is essential.

Exercise and Diet: Regular exercise and a healthy diet help manage symptoms.

Manifestation: Amputation involves the removal of a limb due to trauma, disease, or congenital conditions.
Implications for Ageing:

Prosthetic Use: Ageing amputees adapt to using prosthetic limbs for mobility.

Phantom Pain: Some experience phantom limb pain.

Fall Risk: Balance challenges increase fall risk.

Psychosocial Impact: Coping with body image changes and emotional adjustment

Manifestation: OA is a degenerative joint disease characterized by cartilage breakdown, pain, and stiffness.
Implications for Ageing:

Joint Pain: OA causes joint pain, especially in weight-bearing joints (e.g., knees, hips).

Reduced Mobility: Stiffness and limited range of motion affect daily activities.

Exercise and Weight Management: Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight are crucial.

Manifestation: Stroke occurs due to disrupted blood flow to the brain, resulting in neurological deficits.
Implications for Ageing:

Physical and Cognitive Effects: Stroke survivors may experience weakness, paralysis, speech difficulties, and memory issues.

Rehabilitation: Post-stroke rehabilitation is essential for recovery.

Fall Risk: Balance and coordination challenges increase fall risk.

Emotional Well-Being: Coping with post-stroke changes requires emotional support.

Manifestation: PD is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder affecting movement and coordination.
Implications for Ageing:

Tremors and Rigidity: PD causes tremors, muscle stiffness, and slow movements.

Balance Issues: Ageing with PD increases the risk of falls.

Medication Management: Balancing medication effects and side effects is crucial.

Manifestation: Hemiplegia refers to paralysis of one side of the body, while hemiparesis indicates weakness on one side.
Implications for Ageing:

Mobility Challenges: Hemiplegia affects walking, balance, and coordination.

Fall Risk: Uneven strength distribution increases the risk of falls.

Physical Therapy: Regular therapy supports muscle strength and function.

Manifestation: Osteoporosis is characterized by reduced bone density, making bones fragile and prone to fractures.
Implications for Ageing:

Fracture Risk: Ageing with osteoporosis increases the risk of fractures, especially in the spine, hips, and wrists.

Posture Changes: Spinal compression fractures affect posture and mobility.

Calcium and Vitamin D: Adequate intake is crucial for bone health.
Fall Prevention: Balance exercises and home modifications reduce fall risk.

Manifestation: Limb loss due to trauma, vascular disease, or congenital conditions.
Implications for Ageing:

Prosthetic Use: Ageing amputees adapt to using prosthetic limbs for mobility.

Phantom Sensations: Some experience phantom limb sensations.

Functional Independence: Learning to perform daily tasks with a prosthesis.
Emotional Adjustment: Coping with body image changes and grief.

Manifestation: CF is a genetic disorder affecting the respiratory and digestive systems.
Implications for Ageing:

Lung Function Decline: Ageing with CF involves manageing lung function decline.

Nutritional Challenges: Digestive issues impact nutrient absorption.

Infection Control: Preventing respiratory infections is crucial.
Psychosocial Support: Emotional well-being and social connections matter.

Manifestation: Diabetes (Type 1 or Type 2) affects blood sugar regulation due to insufficient insulin production or insulin resistance.
Implications for Ageing:

Blood Sugar Management: Ageing with diabetes requires consistent monitoring, medication, and lifestyle adjustments.

Neuropathy: Nerve damage can lead to numbness, tingling, and foot ulcers.

Cardiovascular Risk: Diabetes increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Eye Health: Regular eye exams are crucial to prevent diabetic retinopathy.

Manifestation: HD is a genetic disorder causing progressive motor dysfunction, cognitive decline, and psychiatric symptoms.
Implications for Ageing:

Motor Symptoms: Chorea (involuntary movements) worsens over time.

Cognitive Decline: Memory loss, impaired judgment, and personality changes occur.

Emotional Challenges: Coping with HD’s impact on daily life.
Caregiver Support: Family members play a vital role.

Manifestation: Lupus is an autoimmune disease affecting various organs, joints, and skin.

Implications for Ageing:

Flares: Lupus flares cause fatigue, joint pain, and skin rashes.

Organ Involvement: Kidney, heart, and lung complications may worsen with age.

Medication Management: Balancing immunosuppressants and symptom relief.
Self-Care: Stress management and rest are essential.

Manifestation: ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting motor neurons.

Implications for Ageing:

Muscle Weakness: ALS leads to muscle atrophy, affecting mobility and breathing.

Breathing Support: Ventilatory assistance becomes necessary.

Communication Challenges: Speech and swallowing difficulties.
Quality of Life: Palliative care and emotional support matter.

Manifestation: EDS is a group of connective tissue disorders affecting skin, joints, and blood vessels.
Implications for Ageing:

Joint Hypermobility: EDS leads to joint instability, pain, and dislocations.

Skin Fragility: Ageing skin becomes more fragile and prone to bruising and tearing.

Cardiovascular Issues: Blood vessel fragility may cause complications.
Physical Therapy: Strengthening exercises and joint protection are essential.

Manifestation: GBS is an autoimmune disorder causing rapid muscle weakness and paralysis.
Implications for Ageing:

Motor Weakness: GBS affects mobility, balance, and fine motor skills.

Rehabilitation: Physical therapy aids recovery.

Respiratory Support: Ventilatory assistance may be necessary.
Emotional Resilience: Coping with sudden disability requires support.

Manifestation: Scoliosis is an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine.
Implications for Ageing:

Pain: Scoliosis-related back pain may worsen with age.

Breathing Difficulty: Severe curves affect lung capacity.
Mobility Challenges: Balance and posture issues impact daily life.

Manifestation: Visual field loss occurs due to brain injury or eye conditions.
Implications for Ageing:

Safety Concerns: Reduced peripheral vision affects navigation.

Adaptive Techniques: Scanning techniques and environmental modifications.

Driving Limitations: Visual field loss impacts driving safety.

Emotional Adjustment: Coping with visual changes.

Manifestation: ABI results from damage to the brain caused by events such as trauma, stroke, infection, or lack of oxygen, leading to cognitive, physical, emotional, and behavioural changes.

Implications for Ageing:

Cognitive Decline: Ageing with ABI may involve increased cognitive challenges, including memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and slower processing speeds.

Mobility Issues: ABI can lead to mobility problems, which may worsen with age due to muscle weakness, balance issues, and coordination difficulties.

Secondary Health Conditions: ABI increases the risk of secondary health issues like seizures, sleep disorders, and mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety.

Changes in daily living activities: ABI can affect the ability to perform daily activities, such as dressing, bathing, and cooking. These challenges often necessitate the use of assistive devices and may require modifications to the living environment. Effective management involves adopting strategies to compensate for cognitive deficits, seeking occupational therapy, and ensuring a supportive living environment.

Last updated: 13/02/2025

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