Mobility Aids For Older Americans

Observe Older American Month in May by helping an older loved one access mobility aids that make everyday life easier. Accessibility is one of the barriers to aging in place facing many Americans. Mobility aids can improve access, convenience, and ease so that older individuals can live autonomously and enjoy a higher quality of life. Learn more about mobility aids that could benefit seniors as they age. 

Observe Older American Month in May with mobility resources and solutions for seniors. Do you know someone that would benefit from improved accessibility? Even simple tasks are much easier and less of a risk when you use quality equipment and tools from a reputable mobility retailer. Mobility aids, like lifts and scooters, have helped many Americans stay in their own home longer, and facilitate their aging in place during their senior years. Learn more about quality mobility aids that can improve everyday living. 

Some mobility aids for older Americans include these suggestions:  

Reaching Tools 

Consumers of all ages can benefit from a simple reaching tool or ‘grabber’, as they are often called. These are basically a way to extend your natural reach, usually in the form of a slender tool with a grasping claw on one end. An easy-to-use grip controls the opening and closing of the claw, allowing the user to access items that may be just out of reach.  

These reaching tools help to lower the incidence of injury and reduce fall risks around the home. They are inexpensive, widely available, and suited to anyone who wants to prevent the discomfort of an accidental fall while making everyday life a bit easier.  

Walkers 

Walkers allow those with mobility issues, health conditions, or chronic pain to get around easier and lower their risk of a nasty fall. Walkers come in many different types and styles, including rolling walkers which have wheels on the front and typically a seat for the user to rest. Walkers are a low-cost mobility solution that is often covered by insurance when your doctor or healthcare provider recommends it. Visit a trusted mobility retailer to see and try your options. 

Grab Bars 

You won’t realize how valuable a grab bar is until you need to use it! Anyone can benefit from the support and stability of a grab bar, especially if they are prone to falls or have issues with mobility, weakness, or conditions like vertigo. It is common to install grab bars near spots where you may be on your feet, like at a sink, stove, or toilet as well as at the bottom and top of stairways or steps. They are easy enough to install and provide a firm place to ‘grab’ if you stumble or need a hand.  

Stairlifts 

Stairlifts can change the lives of those that use them by increasing access to all areas of a home environment, which may have previously presented accessibility challenges and obstacles. These aids make it possible to go upstairs, downstairs, outside, or anywhere there are steps, with freedom and independence. Lifts are easy to use, and our professional technicians will install, demonstrate, and answer any questions that you may have. Stairlifts can provide you with access to areas like bedrooms, bathrooms, and outdoor living spaces that may have previously been difficult and potentially hazardous. 

Ramps 

Ramps are another aid that brings benefits to far more than the primary user. Ramps are much easier to navigate than steps, stairs, or risers and ramps make it feasible for wheelchair users and walkers to access and enter the dwelling. When it comes to ramps, buyers have several options including cost-effective portable ramps, that don’t require any special installation or construction. These ramps fold up and go with you, so you are assured of always having it with you wherever it may be needed.  

If you use a device like a scooter or wheelchair, a more permanent ramp may be more prudent. Talk with a mobility retail professional to learn more about getting ramps installed at your location today! 

Shower Seats 

Experts agree that the bathroom is where most falls and accidental injuries occur. The slippery floor and slick surfaces make it a hazard for seniors, those with mobility issues, or anyone with a physical disability. There are some ways to improve safety in the space, including a shower bench or seat.  

Shower seats offer a spot to sit during bathing, reducing the risk of a fall in the tub or shower. There are many styles and price points available; check them out online to get an idea of what may work best in your distinctive bathroom.  

Some seniors may benefit from simple accessibility solutions, like canes or reaching tools; other folks may need lifts or wheelchairs to help them live autonomously. Talk to the team at Pacific Mobility; they offer the expertise, experience, and equipment that you need for mobility solutions to improve everyday life. Call or visit today!