Why do older people find it harder to raise their arms? Causes and tips families should know

Have you noticed "lately it seems hard for them to raise their arms"?

• Lately it takes longer to put clothes on.
• It seems hard to comb their hair.
• They've stopped reaching for things on high shelves.

Have you noticed changes like these?

As people age, the movement of the shoulders and arms gradually changes, and it can become harder to raise the arms as before.

Why raising the arms becomes harder with age

With age, the muscles and tendons around the shoulder can become less flexible, and the way the joint moves can gradually change.

However, ageing isn't always the only cause. For example:

• Periarthritis of the shoulder (so-called frozen shoulder)
• Rotator cuff injury
• Shoulder osteoarthritis

can also be causes.

If pain comes on suddenly, or one arm can hardly be raised at all, consult a medical institution early.

Families can notice changes

For example:

• Taking a long time to put on pullover clothes
• Looking pained when putting arms through sleeves
• No longer hanging out the washing
• Seeming to find it hard to comb their hair
• No longer reaching for high places

Changes like these are easier to notice precisely because family spend every day together.

Not forcing the arms up matters too

• It's better to make an effort and move it.

You may think so, but pushing through when pain is strong can sometimes make things worse.

If pain continues, don't put up with it; consult a doctor, physical therapist or similar.

Clothing ideas can make changing easier

When the arms become hard to raise, pullover clothes can make changing a burden.

In such cases, choosing front-opening clothing can make it easier to change without raising the arms high.

It can lighten the burden not only for the person but also for whoever helps.

Consult someone early in cases like these

In cases like the following, we recommend consulting a medical institution such as an orthopaedic clinic.

• Suddenly unable to raise the arm
• Strong pain continues
• Pain keeps them awake at night
• One side is extremely hard to move
• Unable to raise the arm since a fall

Summary

As people age, changes in the muscles and joints of the shoulders and arms can make it harder to raise the arms.

Rather than thinking "it can't be helped at this age", it's important to notice small daily changes.

Adjusting clothing can also make daily changing easier.

If difficulty raising the arms continues or the pain is strong, don't push it; consult a professional.

Making daily changing a little easier also supports the person's confidence and helps them continue living as they always have.