The right mobility aid can make a serious difference for elderly people who might be finding it harder and harder to move around on their own. There are many different types of mobility aids available, from simple walking sticks for daily support to more stable options like walkers or wheelchairs. The right mobility equipment will depend on the capabilities of each individual and what is right for their condition. Finding the right mobility aid often starts with a visit to your doctor, however, to help give you a better idea of the types of options available on the market we have outlined the top mobility aids for the elderly below and how you might decide which one is right for you or your loved one.
Walking sticks
Canes, walking sticks and crutches are some of the oldest forms of mobility aids available for the elderly.
Canes are normally held in one hand and can help assist with balance, pain or a weakness in the leg or trunk. They are best used by elderly people who are fairly mobile on their own but need a little help with their balance or a slight weakness on one side of the body.
Crutches on the other hand offer more support, particularly for injuries that require users to keep pressure off the leg, however, they do require strong shoulder, arm or hand function, so they may not be the best option for many elderly patients.
Walkers and Rollators
Walkers and rollators are designed for patients that require more stability and support than a cane but can still walk relatively well on their own. Walkers are three or four wheeled mobility aids that can be used to provide wide base support for those that need extra assistance over long distances, are at risk of falling over, have difficulty with balance, strength endurance or coordination. Walkers are great not only for providing support when walking but also for offering an easy place to sit, rest and hold items. This helps to take the pressure off the elderly patient and allow them to move more freely on their own.
Walking Belts
Walking belts are perhaps the least common form of mobility aid on this list. They are belts that can be used as hand holds when assisting an elderly person to stand up or to stabilise them when walking. The main purpose is to avoid holding onto the resident’s arm, under their shoulder or another part of their body, which can cause bruising and injury. Walking belts are only required if the person has a significant mobility impairment, to help keep them upright and stable.
Wheelchairs
Wheelchairs are an excellent choice for elderly people who have difficulty with endurance or the functions necessary to walk. Manual wheelchairs are a good option for people who have good hand and arm function, and give them a way of working out without having to use their legs. They can also be an easy way to assist mobility by allowing a carer to push the wheelchair for the patient and take them where they need to go.