Shuffleupagus...

Remember, patience as people age, is very important. Nothing replaces it, and mom will be better for it, you will too.

Have her checked out by a doc. It could also be a sign of stroke or mini strokes. If you truly believe she only does this when you're around could this be a part of a poor me type of acting out? Try a couple wireless cameras discreetly placed when she's out where she won't notice them. Many of them you can view from your phone, say down the street. Is she aware it bothers you? This may be petty payback for something. Manipulation at its best if there's not a medical reason behind it. MIL, ohhhh, im sooooo sore, tired sooooo tired. Mention going to the store she's miraculously recovered and waiting for you in the car. First make sure there's nothing medically going on.

Thank you for your input; however, my mother is very capable of walking without shuffling when it suits her. I suspect she also busts out in a full zumba workout when I leave to go to the store or something! Hence her shuffling driving me crazy.

Yes, there is a woman in my mom's assisted living place who shuffles, taking very tiny steps. She is probably in her 90's though.

Ahhh, Tim Conway, "Oldest Man" character. Loved Carol Burnett!

The shuffling is very characteristic of Parkinson's or Lewy Bodies.

Get her checked by a geriatric care doctor or neurologist. Does she use a walker? It may very well be time.

Check out this link, diagnosis is imperative, it may be something treatable!

http://health.heraldtribune.com/2015/03/17/strange-gait-was-a-clue-to-a-treatable-dementia/

I've been told this is a characteristic of dementia. My aunt walks like this. I'd have her seen by her doctor for an actual diagnosis.