
Choosing The Right Mobility Aid Or Device: A Complete Guide
Maintaining independence throughout our Golden Years can translate to more confidence, increased autonomy, and a better quality of life. For seniors in particular, mobility is a key factor in independence. Making an informed decision on which mobility aids may be right for you or your senior loved one may require quite a bit of research. With an ever-increasing selection of walkers, canes, wheelchairs, scooters, and more to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to begin. In this guide, we’ll go over the features, benefits, and drawbacks of different mobility aids for seniors. Knowledge is power – and choosing the right mobility aid for yourself or your loved one can be a turning point toward truly making the most out of those later years.
Types Of Mobility Aids
The world of mobility aids and mobility devices has come leaps and bounds in recent years, giving seniors a lot to think about when deciding which is right for them. Keep in mind that different mobility aids cater to different abilities and preferences and each can vary widely in price. Some of these mobility aids are for walking, and others provide seated assistance. Here are some of the most common mobility aids for seniors:
- Cane: Canes are a good option for active seniors with only mild mobility issues. With a straight, usually single-pointed end, a cane is perfect for providing minimal support and assistance with balance. Canes can range from very basic – to extremely elaborate. Price ranges can reflect those differences as well. You can also purchase cane accessories such as cane tips, wrist straps, and carrying bags to provide a more comfortable and convenient experience. When choosing the right cane, is it essential to get properly sized as a cane that is too long or too short may end up causing back pain or pose safety issues. There are adjustable canes on the market to eliminate the stress of finding the one that “fits” best.
- Walker: Walkers provide more stability than a cane, but are similarly portable and convenient. The most basic walkers will have four pointed ends, handles, and a single crossbar for stability. More elaborate walkers may be space-saving and foldable, have two wheels in place of two of the pointed ends, and may even have a seat or storage area.
- Rollator: While rollators are technically a specific type of walker, they deserve their own section. The difference between a rollator and your average walker is that a rollator has four wheels, no pointed ends, and an attached seat. This makes it a popular choice for seniors with limited mobility to get around smoothly and easily. The ability to take a seated break when necessary is perhaps the most appealing quality of a rollator. On the other hand, there is a risk of dependence when using these mobility aids for walking which can contribute to decreased muscle tone over time.
- Wheelchair: Wheelchairs are a more advanced mobility aid for seniors who are either unable to or have trouble with walking. With both manual and electric wheelchairs available, there is a wide variety of wheelchairs on the market. Lightweight manual wheelchairs may be a good option for those who need to be able to fold it up and store it for travel or when not in use. Heavyweight electric wheelchairs may be a good option for those who have a wheelchair-friendly vehicle or transportation with a ramp and for those who have the space for a bulkier chair. Electric options may also increase independence for seniors with very limited mobility, allowing them to get around on their own.
- Mobility scooters: Mobility scooters are similar to electric wheelchairs in the sense that users can maneuver around solo. Instead of the joystick that is typically seen on an electric wheelchair though, mobility scooters are navigated by a handlebar. Mobility scooters may be a good option for seniors who enjoy outdoor activities, as many of them come with all-terrain wheels. The positioning that a mobility scooter allows may not be as comfortable for some seniors, so be sure to test one out before committing.
Things To Consider
Before deciding which mobility aid is right for you or your loved one, think about what daily life looks like and what activities, if any, this mobility device will be used for. For example, seniors who enjoy a range of outdoor activities may especially want to consider things like wheels, charging life, and features like a sunshade. Financial considerations may also play a role in determining which mobility aid is right, as price ranges vary significantly. Finding the perfect balance between budget-friendly, needed features, and ultimately, safety is key.
Determining Individual Mobility Needs
Assessing the specific needs, limitations, and abilities of the individual is paramount in deciding which mobility aid is right for them. On one end of the spectrum, for particularly mobile seniors who need little assistance, canes are a great option. On the other end of the spectrum, power chairs are great for those who have very limited mobility. If you’re unsure what mobility aid matches you or your loved one’s mobility level, it helps to get an expert medical opinion on which device may be most helpful.
Final Tips
When shopping for mobility aids to support independence, you may also want to consider adaptive devices for the home such as stairlifts, handrails, and grab bars. These mobility devices not only foster independence but promote safety and provide invaluable peace of mind.
How We Can Help
We understand just how important independence is for seniors. We also understand that, sometimes, our elders need a hand getting around, caring for themselves, and around the house. As a leading senior care provider in the San Francisco area, the team at Serving Seniors Care truly loves to serve our seniors. Contact us today to learn how we can help!
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