4 Tips For Choosing Mobility Aids For Seniors

Seniors may have special needs that may require assistance from another person, but their independence will always be precious to them.

Mobility aids should make their lives easier and help them with the day-to-day tasks they might not perform without these aids. Limited mobility should not be viewed as limited ability.

Many devices to choose from will contribute to the ease of function—from the commonly known walking frames and canes to more advanced aids like computer software and adapted switches. Ride-on options are also available for seniors with very limited abilities, like The Rollz Motion2 transport chair.

Choosing the correct mobility aid may depend on individual needs, which you will read more about here:

Consider Unique Needs

Each person and their individual needs will differ. Some may need less support and others slightly more. To make the best choice, you will have to consider the person’s daily routine to know where help is needed.

If they need help standing and walking, you need to find the most comfortable device to assist them. Installing a ramp or adapted walkways and custom doorways might also be needed to navigate the house successfully.

For getting up flights of stairs, you can look at finding a chair lift to make it easier to get to the next floor. This could be costly, and the stairway would have to be wide enough to accommodate the lift, but it will mean the world to the person using it.

Think Of Manageability

Seniors are not as physically fit and strong as they used to be. Having to lug heavy equipment around or struggling with odd-sized items that don’t fit in anywhere may cause more frustration for them.

The mobility aid should be designed to enhance their lives, not make it more difficult. You might need to look at how the seniors will manage when using the support.

Look at their home and see how the aid could be stored and how it will fit into their daily activities around the house. If the aid is difficult to maneuver and impossible to store safely out of the way, it may not be the best choice for them. You can consider devices like Rolstoel adult walkers that may help get around the house.

High-Quality Items Are Best

You wouldn’t want your loved one to fall or have injuries due to substandard equipment. Although buying a high-quality mobility aid may cost more initially, it will save you in hospital and medical bills, which could be even more.

Research mobility aid that you are interested in buying and look at different models and their quality. The aid needs to be sturdy enough to carry the person’s weight and should be manufactured to last for a long time.

If you are concerned about the cost of a high-quality mobility aid, speak to the institution that provides medical cover for the senior. Some devices and aids may be covered, assisting you with the purchase.

Consult With Professionals

No one will be more knowledgeable than the professionals who manufacture or work with mobility aids daily; thus, consult with them about the various options available before spending money on the aid that might not fit the purpose.

Contact various manufacturers, ask for advice and get brochures of the different makes and models, so you have all the information on hand to help you decide.

Another professional you can consult will be the attending medical professional for the senior. The medical professional will also be able to guide you on the physical and medical needs of the senior. Getting their input could be some of the most valuable information you need to make an informed choice.

Rolling It All Into One

Seniors will appreciate you helping them remain fairly independent, especially those living on their own. Hence, having these mobility aids will be a must-have to ensure that they are happy and injury-free.

Be sure of your facts to know which aids will be the best buys. Check the quality and safety information before purchasing to ensure it is money well spent. You wouldn’t want to cause further mobility issues by choosing the incorrect aid for them.

Follow the guidelines given by the medical professionals and manufacturers, and listen to the input from the senior. After all, they will be using the mobility aid and should be satisfied and safe enough to do so.