Mobility Aids - Help For Daily Living

It is always advisable to have a physical ability assessment carried out by a professional, such as a doctor or physiotherapist before a mobility aid is acquired. This is to determine that the most suitable aid is selected in order to meet the needs of the individual.
It is also advisable to assess the home environment and the lifestyle of the user before acquiring a mobility aid.

Using mobility aids improves the movement of the user by providing stability, support, confidence and independence. However, it is vital that the correct aid is used for the needs of the individual, and the user knows how to use it.

The range of mobility aids varies from the simple walking stick through to crutches, frames, walkers and wheelchairs, and on to the high tech, high spec, electrically powered scooters.
Other mobility aids can include transfer devises such as the sling lift which help to transfer the user between beds and chairs, and the mechanical stair lift which enables the user to gain access to higher floor levels.

The walking stick is the most ancient aid for mobility, and has been in use since time immemorial. As with crutches and walkers these devises all help to improve stability, generate movement and maintain an upright position.

The most stable walker today is the Zimmer frame which is a freestanding lightweight metal frame and mainly used indoors. The wheeled walker which is based on the Zimmer frame design can be seen in any village, town or city. The wheeled walker (or rollator) can have a seat, a bag, or both a seat and a bag which offer the user convenience, versatility, confidence and independence.

The variety of mobility aids, and aids for general day to day living available today is vast and play a vital role in helping those with disabilities, including the elderly.
The designers of mobility aids are constantly aiming to develop new ideas in order to advance, and improve the life of the user.

In days gone by people with mobility problems often found themselves housebound and had to rely on others for assistance. But with today's inventions and technology, people with disabilities can go about their daily activities independently.

It is now compulsory for public places, and buildings to allow easy access for people with mobility problems; this is due to government legislation.

Mobility aids help life to be lived.