MOBILITY AIDS FOR THE ELDERLY

There are several Mobility Aids available in the market, so it's only natural to be confused. To determine which is best suited for your needs, we've developed a list to help you get started!

Wouldn't it be just delightful never to have to use mobility aids? But, as we age, we realise that it is not always possible and that they can be pretty helpful in living a convenient life. A cane or walker can help you move around comfortably if you have had surgery, and you could also consider using a power wheelchair.

Mobility aids that help us move from one place to another and avoid falls can make the difference between being independent and needing help.

Senior citizens often require extra care and attention, and comfortable mobility aids can ensure their daily needs are met. It is important that the elderly feel comfortable and at home as they age because they naturally lose some of their physical and mental abilities.

The purpose of mobility aids is to enable people with mobility problems to enjoy greater freedom and independence. As a result of these devices, users can be more independent, suffer less pain, and feel more confident and self-assured.

4 Different Types Of Mobility Aids

You will need a mobility aid depending on your mobility problem or injury. Some common mobility aids are:

1. Walking Stick

A Walking Stick can be an additional point of support for seniors, enhancing their safety and stability. Walking sticks should support 25 per cent of a person's body weight, and they are useful for people with moderate balance impairments or significantly weaker legs.

2. Wheelchairs

A wheelchair is intended for people who cannot walk or shouldn't put weight on their lower limbs. If you need to travel long distances or have severe disabilities, they may be better than walkers. In addition to being Manually Moveable by the user, wheelchairs can also be pushed or be Electrical, making movement convenient.

3. Crutches

Crutches transfer an individual's weight from the legs to the upper body to help balance and relieve pressure. They can be used in pairs or individually. Those with short-term or permanent disabilities may use crutches to keep themselves upright.

There are different types of crutches available:

● Underarm crutches

Underarm Crutches are positioned against the ribcage under the armpits while the user holds the hand grips. A short-term injury patient can use these crutches since the usage will be for a limited period.

● Elbow crutches

A metal or plastic cuff is used to hold the hand and the arm while using this crutch. People with long-term disabilities can opt for Elbow Crutches.

4. Walkers

Walkers, also known as Zimmer frames, are metal frames on four legs, and the two front feet sometimes may have wheels to assist with forward movement. There are different types of walkers, such as rollator and two-wheel walkers. Due to their wider contact with the ground, walkers provide more support and balance than canes and crutches. By placing weight on both sides of the frame, the user receives great stability and maintains independence from the wheelchair. Walkers are generally lightweight and can be folded up despite their size. Walkers are sometimes even lighter than crutches!

An elderly or disabled individual's safety and mobility can be improved significantly with the right steps in choosing mobility aids. To learn what will work best for your loved one, speak with a professional.

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