Have you been told that you, or a family member, needs to start looking into mobility aids? This isn’t any reason to panic, as it is a normal part of aging. But you may be wondering, what is a mobility aid? And where can you get one?
We’ve got all the basic information about mobility aids in this article, so keep reading to learn more!
Mobility Aids Definition
Mobility aids are assistive devices for walking commonly used by the elderly. While individuals past retirement age normally use them, individuals of all ages may need to use them because of an illness, surgery, or disability.
The most common mobility aid is a cane or wheelchair, both of which are walking assistance devices. They help take the weight off the feet and can help an unstable individual balance.
Types of Mobility Aids
The exact mobility aid you need to purchase will depend on why you are using one in the first place and the state of your general health. If you have questions about which walking aids you should use, it’s important to discuss them with a doctor, as they can direct you to the best devices for you.
But, for the sake of knowledge, we’ve listed the most common mobility devices below:
- Canes
- Crutches
- Walkers
- Wheelchairs
- Mobility Scooters
- Guide Dogs
For more information about these mobility aids, head over to our Different Types of mobility aids article, which goes into depth on each aid.
Who Can Use Mobility Aids?
As we mentioned previously, it is more common for the elderly to use mobility aids more than any other demographic, but they aren’t the only ones. Individuals with health concerns or disabilities may need to use one as well.
Sometimes, people can become embarrassed when they are prescribed to use an assistive device for the elderly. But there is no reason to be embarrassed! Many individuals in their 40s and 50s use walking aids following a surgery or procedure, which is completely normal!
A doctor will only prescribe or recommend a walking aid when you truly need it, so don’t be ashamed or try to stay strong by not using it. You’ll want to use it as directed by your doctor to prevent further injury.
Where Can You Get a Mobility Aid?
In most cases, if a procedure causes your injury or illness, a walking aid will be given to you by your local pharmacy.
But, if you are looking for a walking aid for your aging parent or perhaps just to make life easier for yourself, you don’t need to fret or contact a doctor, as most mobility aids can be purchased online.
While some large online marketplaces like Amazon do offer mobility aids, the quality can sometimes be questionable. If you aren’t sure about a product, it’s better to wait and ask a professional before you buy. Alternatively, there are many medical supply stores that will sell mobility aids directly to consumers, especially in the case of walking aids.
It’s important, in most cases, that you do not borrow mobility aids from a friend or family member. This is because mobility aids come in different sizes, and one designed for someone else likely won’t suit you properly.
When a doctor provides you with a mobility aid, they will order you one in the right size automatically, but if you are working to order your own, it’s important to take a look at the different sizes or speak to a customer service agent who can direct you to the right one before you buy.
What is the Most Common Mobility Aid?
The most common mobility aid is the wheelchair, which can allow an individual to get themself from place to play or allow someone to push them. Because of its ease and the fact that many people have a wheelchair in addition to another mobility aid like a cane, it makes sense that wheelchairs are the most popular.
What Can You Use Instead of a Wheelchair?
Wheelchairs are convenient, but they can also seem daunting to individuals who are not yet ready to give up their freedom. It’s important to know that just because you are prescribed a wheelchair, it doesn’t mean you aren’t going to walk anymore. As a matter of fact, you will likely still walk around your home without one, but use it mostly when you leave the house or need to go long distances.
That being said, we understand it can still be scary to consider a wheelchair, which is why many older adults have begun purchasing walkers (or walking frames) instead.
Walkers are a walking aid that gives the user help with balancing as they walk around. It keeps them on their feet but takes some of the fear of falling away. Most modern walkers have a seat, which can open and allow the user to store some items in the walker itself. This can be helpful in the grocery store or when going to a doctor’s appointment when you have lots of paperwork. Plus, if you find yourself without a place to sit, you can put the brakes on and sit on the walker itself.
While it is never advised to push someone who is sitting on a walker, it can be done in emergency situations. Such as you feel faint and need to have someone help you to somewhere safe for you to sit down. Because of these added features, a walker is often considered a good first mobility aid for someone who is losing their mobility as an alternative to going straight to a wheelchair.
How Do You Know If You Need a Mobility Aid?
Signs that you need a mobility aid include:
- Falling while walking
- Having a fear of falling while walking
- Holding on to walls or furniture while walking or standing
If you notice any of these signs, you’ll want to bring them up next time you visit the doctor. A medical professional will be better able to evaluate your walking abilities and prescribe the right solution.
Overall, hearing you need a mobility aid isn’t anything to be scared of, as it is a normal part of aging. Just make sure you take the time to evaluate all of your available options and speak with a professional to find the right mobility aid for you.
