Mastering Mobility - Top Tips to Improve Strength, Balance & Walking

After a health crisis, it can be hard to hope there will be brighter days ahead.

However, seventy-five-year-old Aldo D’Agostino is living proof that with motivation and professional support, there can be light at the end of the tunnel.

In 2022, Aldo was rushed to hospital following an acute stroke. Doctors prepared his family for the worst.

“He was on life support for three days and they warned he might not be able to breathe on his own when they took the tube out,” recalled Aldo’s wife, Irene.

To everyone’s relief, Aldo had no trouble breathing when the tube was removed, but the stroke had left him unable to speak and with limited movement in his right arm and leg. When he finally went home, he was in a wheelchair and unable to get in or out without help. Irene says this was unthinkable for her once active husband.

“He was never one to sit and watch television or anything. He would come home from work and go straight out in the garden. I knew it would be important to get him back on his feet,” said Irene. 

Aldo’s journey to walking again

Motivation is key to making progress after a stroke or other major health issue, says senior physiotherapist, Dharvi Chaudhary. Dharvi is with the Brightwater At Home allied health team working with Aldo since his return home. The team uses goal setting to develop an individual program for each client.

“The goal was to regain independence. Aldo wanted to get in and out of bed, and transfer himself into his wheelchair. He wanted to shower and take a few steps by himself,” said Dharvi.

Progress was slow but Aldo remained committed to his weekly stretching and physiotherapy exercises. Gradually his persistence paid off and 18 months after his stroke, Aldo could walk 10 metres with a stick, get in and out of his wheelchair without assistance and shower independently.

“I'm so proud of what he has achieved. Stroke rehabilitation takes time and a lot of dedication from the client. But Aldo has stayed motivated,” said Dharvi.  

Irene says husband is now working on his endurance so he can spend less time in the wheelchair.

‘As long as we're moving forward, it's good news for everybody.” she said.

How to start mastering your mobility

Dharvi says there are some simple exercises that can be done at home to improve strength, balance, and walking.

Balance: Specific balance exercises can help improve stability and awareness of body position. Examples include standing on one leg, heel-to-toe walking, and standing up from a seated position without using hands for support. Strengthening the muscles in the legs, core, and lower back can help improve balance and stability. Simple strength exercises like leg lifts, squats, and calf raises can be effective.

Walking: Start with short distances and gradually increase as you feel more comfortable. If you have stairs at home, incorporate stair climbing into your routine. Start with a few flights and gradually increase as you build strength and endurance. If possible, walk outside to enjoy fresh air and different terrain.

• Start Slowly. Begin with gentle exercises and gradually increase the intensity as your strength improves.
• Stay Consistent. Aim for regularity in your exercise routine, even if it’s just a few times a week.
• Warm up and Cool Down. Always warm up before starting exercises and cool down afterward to prevent muscle strain
• Listen to your Body. Take rests during and after exercising, and stop if there is pain or discomfort. Consult a healthcare professional if necessary.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after exercising to stay hydrated.

Remember, talk to a healthcare professional before starting a new exercise routine, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions.

It’s never too late to start! Have a chat to your coordinator about Brightwater at Home’s numerous allied health programs or individualised services to get you mastering your mobility.