Mobility Assistance Tools for Elderly Care
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, over half of older households reported that their homes met their accessibility needs. About 11% of the total households reported difficulty living in their home.
As seniors age, they inevitably develop mobility issues. For some, it's as minor as joint pain or limited flexibility. Others may find themselves needing wheelchairs to get around.
Here are some of the various forms of senior mobility tools and why they're important.
The Importance of Mobility Assistive Devices for Seniors
Mobility is a critical aspect of daily living. You need to move if you want to visit friends or join public activities. A lack of mobility can make living alone impossible in some cases, especially if you can't clean yourself or cook meals.
Senior living aids like mobility devices are key to giving back a person's independence. A cane can help someone who struggles with balance or knee pain. Wheelchairs allow those who cannot walk to get around.
On top of that, assisted living homes provide access to various community amenities and services. These include housekeeping services, in-room dining, personal care, and even organized events.
Types of Senior Mobility Aids
There are many types of elderly mobility aids that can help someone who struggles to get around on their own. These range from canes and walkers to stairlifts and transfer aids.
When combined with other senior assistive technology, a resident can feel more empowered than they did before moving into the community.
Canes
Canes are the simplest and most common type of elderly care equipment. They provide support and balance to seniors who experience minor stability issues. These individuals may find it difficult to walk or stay balanced when at rest.
With a cane, they get an extra level of support. They're a lightweight option that's easy to use. You can see canes used all over the world throughout different countries and cultures.
There are a few different types of canes to consider for your senior loved one.
First, you have single-point canes. These are basic and functional for anyone who requires minimal assistance.
Quad canes have a wider base with four points of contact. While they appear more bulky on the bottom, they provide more support than single-point options.
Make sure to buy an adjustable cane so you can tailor it to the user's height. Otherwise, you can always get a custom one made out of whatever material you'd like.
Walkers and Rollators
Walkers and rollators offer more substantial support for seniors who can still walk on their own two feet. These provide extra stability by acting as another set of legs. Some walkers have wheels that allow seniors to move them more easily without needing to pick them up every step.
Rollators are a more advanced version of walkers and have wheels on all four legs. This allows them to glide much more easily than with a standard walker. They also often come with a built-in seat which allows users to rest whenever they need to.
Something to keep in mind with rollators is that they can move forward very easily. It's important that seniors can activate the brakes reliably to avoid falling down or losing control of the device.
Wheelchairs
Wheelchairs are some of the best options for those who cannot stand for long periods or walk on their own.
Manual wheelchairs are the most affordable options and are powered by either the user's hands or by another person. The user can propel themselves forward, roll back, and pivot as needed. Lightweight models are more portable while heavyweight wheelchairs can hold more weight.
Powered wheelchairs are pricier. These electric, battery-operated wheelchairs move with the use of built-in controls. Seniors may prefer these models if their arms get fatigued while using a manual one.
There are also customized wheelchairs made for specific disabilities and health conditions. Expect to rely on your insurance when acquiring these.
Mobility Scooters
Mobility scooters serve as an alternative to wheelchairs for seniors who need help navigating longer distances. They're battery-operated and often come with handlebars for steering.
A senior may want a mobility scooter if they only need a mobility device when leaving the house. They allow for quicker movement and are usually not as bulky as a power wheelchair.
Keep in mind that health insurance may only cover part of the cost. Mobility scooters tend to cost more than manual wheelchairs.
Stairlifts
A stair lift is an essential mobility support tool for seniors who live in multi-story homes. It's almost impossible for them to bring something like a wheelchair or mobility scooter up those stairs without hurting themselves.
Users can sit comfortably in the lift while it transports them up or down the stairs. It greatly reduces the risk of falling and allows them to access every part of their home.
There are many stairlift models that allow for wheelchairs and mobility scooters to navigate the stairs. They may require a stronger motor and more space to accommodate the mobility aid, though.
Transfer Aids
Transfer aids refer to devices that help seniors move from one surface to another. Most commonly, these are used to help them get from their bed to a wheelchair or scooter.
Common transfer aids include boards, sliding sheets, and transfer belts.
A person may need these aids if they have limited use of their legs, limited upper body strength, or are recovering from a procedure. They can use them by themselves or with the help of a caregiver.
Find Mobility Support Tools
Finding senior mobility aids for your loved one is a great way to show them that you care. Whether they live alone or in an assisted living community, a mobility aid can help them get out of their comfort zone and live their life.
Addington Place of Lee's Summit provides a senior living community designed to reduce stress and at-home obligations. Our community amenities include 24-hour emergency maintenance, housekeeping, personal care services, and more. Reach out with any questions or if you want to visit us in person.