Turning to mobility options for help is never easy, but investing in equipment designed to help is by far the best thing you can do and will make life a lot better.
There are many easy mobility equipments out there to consider from reputable shops like Thistle Help.
This guide will explore the best walking aids for the elderly you need to know about to make you or your loved ones’ time that bit easier.
Mobility Scooters
Walking for the elderly can be ok in increments, but excessive movement can be difficult.
Mobility scooters are ideal for those still able to move on and off briefly. They are great for those who still want to get out and about but can’t necessarily do so without aid.
Mobility scooters come in three options; small, medium, and large. Each provides its pros and cons.
Small Scooters
Small options are much easier to move around by a carer or relative, and they can be easily stored and transported for long-haul trips.
Some negatives are that they aren’t suitable for driving on roads and have a smaller battery, so they aren’t great for excessive usage.
Medium Scooters
A one up from the small options, medium scooters carry a bit more weight and can travel faster.
Some are designed for road use if they are registered as class 3.
A downside is that they aren’t very portable but are great for those who take trips around the vicinity of their home.
The battery life is significantly better than smaller options, so they are great for those who love a good doddle.
Large Scooters
Large scooters are designed for longer distances and rough surfaces.
Bigger in size, these carry a lot more weight but can hold much more on board.
True transport machines, these scooters can travel very long distances at higher speeds and come with common transport features like horns, indicators and lights.
Negatives are that they are heavy in turning and require a lock for any goods transported.
Choosing the right scooter is a task that requires careful consideration based on specific needs. It’s important to consider how and where you intend to use it.
Crutches and Sticks
Walking sticks and crutches are usually the first thing people turn to when looking for a mobility aid, and they are great options to help provide some support and stability to everyday life.
Modern technology has allowed walking sticks to develop into various shapes, sizes, and colours.
If you go about a lot by car, look for a collapsable option that is easy to transport and pack away.
A tetrapod is the best option for those needing more stability than a standard stick. It features four stands at the base allowing for a sturdier experience, perfect for those who tend to lean to one side.
Some sticks even come with foldable seats built-in or improved grips at the handles. The options are forever growing.
Flexible replacement feet for crutches can mould the ground better and avoid stick misplacement.
Walking Frames
A stage up from sticks, walking frames offer ultra-stable options for shifting around the house or other nearby areas.
Similarly, walking frames have been developing in designs, with some offering more storage options and mobility aid.
If you get tired easily, you may opt for a walking frame with integrated seating that allows you to take a break whenever needed.
If you carry a lot of stuff around, a frame with built-in storage might be a good option.
Handrails and Ramps
Investing in mobility equipment is all well and great, but getting in and out of doorways will always pose a struggle without handrails and ramps.
Ramps are super adjustable and are designed to fit many different doorways.
Neat Edge options are designed to fit snugly under small ledged doorways, whereas high-rise ramp kits are designed for height-implicated doorways.
Ramps come in various price points, from cheaper plastic options to high-quality metal options designed to last years.
Some ramps will come with integrated handrails for support. If not, consider a rail for additional support.
In Summary
Mobility tools are there to help and are constantly becoming more innovative.
When using mobility aid on public transport, check up on government guidance to ensure your needs are met.
Having to turn to a mobility aid is not always a great feeling, but if it makes life easier and allows you to do more things in your day, then it’s a massive bonus.
Hopefully, this short guide has given you some inspiration on some easy-to-use mobility equipment to make use of. A lot of it comes down to personal preference in terms of storage options, safety, and size, so be sure to choose wisely.
