Here Are the Basic Mobility Aids Every Senior Should Use

There are a few basic mobility aids that every senior should utilize to enhance accessibility while also reducing the risk of a fall or accidental injury. These are easy enough to find at a mobility retail venue in your region, and buying from a reputable vendor ensures satisfaction after the sale, too. Here is what you need to know! 

It is estimated that there will be around 78 million seniors living in this country by the year 2035. Perhaps the biggest hurdle that this demographic faces is related to maintaining physical well-being, which in turn, contributes to quality of life. Since falls are the leading cause of injurious and fatal accidents for older Americans, it makes sense to do what we can to prevent these incidents. Mobility aids can help circumvent hazards, falls, and subsequent injuries.  

Here are some basic mobility aids that every senior should use: 

Grab Bars 

Quite frankly, every home should implement grab bars as a safety precaution. These are most seen near sinks, toilets, steps- anywhere that a bit of stability could be helpful. A sturdy grab bar can help reduce the risk of a fall, especially in the bathroom where the floor may be slick or wet. Make sure that grab bars are installed properly to ensure they are secure and supportive later.  

Shower Seats and Benches 

Speaking of the bathroom, another mobility aid that every senior should use is either a shower seat or bench. These are found in a wide variety, depending on your bathroom, budget, and preferences. Some slide over the tub wall, providing an easier way for the user to get into the tub for bathing or showering, while other styles fit inside the tub or shower stall for a spot to sit while washing. Either way, these are found widely at reasonable price points.  

Walkers 

Many seniors benefit from a bit of support when moving about, which is where walkers come in. These are found with seats, and without, as well as with wheels, brakes, or in manual styles. The best walker to buy depends on your level of mobility; talk to a healthcare professional to find out more. Also, consider visiting a mobility aids retail venue to see for yourself how much support and stability a walker can provide.  

Reaching Tools 

Another aid that no household should be without is a reaching tool. These are amazing! They extend your reach so items can be grasped, grabbed, or accessed with ease. For some seniors, bending or leaning can precipitate a nasty fall; reduce this hazardous risk by using a reaching tool in these situations. These are easy to use, inexpensive to buy, and invaluable around the home! 

Ramps 

Another mobility aid that every senior should utilize is a ramp. Most public offices or healthcare settings use ramps, as they provide an easy way to ascend or descend in or out of the building. These are found indoors and out. Typically, there are two different types of ramps available widely; they are: 

• Permanent ramps are the ones that you typically find outside a commercial building or a home that can be lengthy. These are meant to be permanent fixtures, built to accommodate the structure and the height of the entry.  
• Portable ramps are intended for temporary use, such as in a rental or if you are in rehab following an injury or surgery. These can be folded up and taken with you when you go for accessibility elsewhere, too.  

The best type of ramp again depends on your distinct needs. Visit a mobility retailer to see different portable ramps when making your buying decisions. A permanent ramp usually involves a consultation with a building contractor.  

Stairlifts 

Have you tried a stairlift for yourself? Many public places have stairlifts for consumers with mobility or accessibility issues- try one. They are easy to operate and truly make everyday life safer. Steps can be tough on individuals with physical disabilities, or those that are recovering from an injury, illness, or operation. A fall on stairs could be devastating; use a stairlift instead.  

Stairlifts are more common and affordable than you may think, too. Talk to a mobility retail professional about installing a lift in your home today.  

Senior Citizen Day 

Senior Citizen Day on August 21st provides an opportunity to increase awareness and insight into aging, highlighting resources and opportunities to improve the everyday quality of life for this population. Since 1988, this day has been set aside to honor and acknowledge the many contributions of older Americans. What a perfect time to contemplate mobility aids that may make everyday life better for yourself or a senior that you care about.  

Talk to the team at Pacific Mobility for quality mobility aids and equipment that every senior should use. From grab bars to stairlifts, enhance access and improve everyday life with simple tools available widely.