Articles related to focusing on healthy aging, prevention, mobility, cognition, nutrition, independence, and caregiving support.
According to the National Institutes of Health, a significant portion of older adults experience some form of mobility decline, contributing to a loss of functional independence. This raises a crucial question for many families: **Why is it harder for older people to walk?**
According to the National Institute on Aging, sarcopenia, the age-related loss of muscle mass, can begin as early as your 30s. This can significantly impact mobility and is just one piece of the puzzle that explains **why does it get harder to walk when you get older?** It's a complex issue influenced by multiple physiological changes that can affect balance, strength, and overall gait.
According to the CDC, over 19 million U.S. adults live with a mobility impairment, making walking a challenge for many. Whether due to injury, age, or a chronic condition, knowing how to support someone with difficulty walking is essential for their safety, independence, and well-being. This guide provides practical steps to help a loved one navigate their daily life with confidence and dignity.
While gait velocity generally remains stable until around age 70, studies show significant genetic and biological influences affect when you struggle to walk. Mobility challenges often stem from a complex interplay of aging processes, not a single milestone age.
