7 Mobility Aid Types That Promote Freedom and Independence in Seniors

As people live longer than ever before, many seniors need mobility aids around the house and out in the world. Some of these aids act as constant support, while others help with stamina so seniors can spend more time doing what they enjoy. These accessibility tools can be life-changing for seniors who were once homebound or unable to use their entire living space. Here are seven types of mobility aids that can help promote independence for you or a loved one.   

Lightweight wheelchairs

Lightweight wheelchairs provide portable mobility for seniors who have the necessary strength in their arms but might need assistance with stamina. Unlike the wheelchairs of the past, new models like the So Lite Wheelchair only weigh between eleven and fifteen pounds.

These feather-light chairs are popular choices for shopping malls, grocery stores, and other large venues where seniors might need assistance due to the size of the facility. 

Walkers and rollators

Walkers and rollators give seniors the ability to stay upright and walk around their homes or other locations. Rollators are wheeled devices that seniors push as they walk. With a walker, seniors have to lift the lightweight four-legged device as they step forward or backward.

Some seniors rely on walkers to climb in and out of chairs. Many walkers have built-in padded cushions for seniors who want a convenient sitting place. 

Stairlifts

Seniors with knee or hip problems can struggle to climb up and down stairs. Stairlifts give mobility-restricted adults safe access to all areas of their homes. A technician must install the stairlift so seniors can ride up or down along a track that runs parallel to the steps. These quiet tools can make a huge difference in accessibility for seniors. 

Mobility scooters

Mobility scooters and electric wheelchairs can help seniors move around their homes and businesses. These four-wheeled scooters have comfortable seats, a platform for feet, and easy-to-steer hands with an accelerator and brakes. Many have additional accessories for grocery shopping and safety.

Canes

Canes have been helpful for centuries. Seniors and other people with mobility issues use canes for assistance with balance. These tools can be lightweight for practicality and portability. Manufacturers can customize walking sticks in various materials, colors, and sizes. Quality walking canes generally have solid bases, so seniors can pick them up and place them down when they walk.

Lift chairs

Some seniors only need assistance to settle in and out of chairs at home. Engineers have designed comfortable lounge chairs with scissor-lift parts under the attractive exteriors. When climbing in and out of a lift chair, seniors use a remote to tilt the chair and enter it from a standing position, rather than having to bend their knees. 

Powered wheelchairs

Seniors that need more mobility assistance can use powered wheelchairs. These devices have small motors that seniors control with their fingertips, mouth, or eyes, depending on their needs. These options are heavier than lightweight, portable wheelchairs, so they usually require customized vans to use outside of the home. 

Wrap up

Seniors who need assistance with mobility issues have several choices, from canes and walkers to electrical options like stairlifts and powered wheelchairs. The devices help seniors live with freedom and independence in their homes and around the community. 




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