Mobility Devices Increase Independence and Improve Quality of Life

Mobility devices increase independence and preserve autonomy for those living with physical disabilities or limitations. Increased access protects independence, which leads to overall quality of life.

It is estimated that there are around 18-million people in North America living with mobility issues. This makes the need and demand for mobility devices more prevalent than ever before. Encourage your loved one with physical limitations to be as independent as possible through the installation and use of mobility aids and equipment. Allow your loved one to age in place and respect their desire to be autonomous with tools and devices that can increase convenience and function, whether you want to increase access in the home, at the office, or even for your vehicle!

Mobility devices increase independence in several ways:

High-quality mobility devices increase independence for users in a wide variety of ways, from helping homeowners access second-level areas, to assisting individuals to drive to and from appointments. Depending on the physical limitation, lifts can help broaden access around the home while also protecting caregivers from incidental injury when transporting physically-impaired clients. It is imperative to only allow professional, qualified technicians install, repair, or modify your mobility aids, lifts, devices, and equipment. Allowing someone to tamper with your device may not only nullify any warranty, it can also present a safety risk and hazard to those using it.

Consider these mobility aids and devices:

• stairlifts

A nasty fall on a step or stair can significantly impact the health and well-being of a senior or other person with mobility issues. Avoid this potential disaster with stairlifts, which safely transport the user up the stairs or steps with ease. Whether you have a straight or curved stairway, and regardless of the riser-depth, stairlifts can create a convenience that allows free-range and full-access to their home or workplace.

• Ceiling lifts

For individuals living with mobility issues that make activities of daily living (ADLs) challenging, keep your loved one and their caregivers safe with a ceiling lift. These devices gently raise the user so that they can dress, groom, or engage in activities, such as physical therapy, with much more ease. This also helps ensure that caregivers don’t suffer injuries or problems when transporting and caring for your loved one.

• Vehicle lifts

Don’t let a mobility issue impact your ability to drive; a vehicle lift can create a safe way for individuals to get in-and-out of their vehicle, while also storing wheelchairs, scooters, or other aids securely. This enables your loved one to maintain their freedom and attend appointments or commitments independently, which fosters self-confidence and contributes to quality of life.

• Porch lifts

Something as simple as stepping outside to enjoy the fresh air, some sunshine, or the garden can be truly joyful. Don’t let your loved one be deprived of this pleasure; look at porch lifts to increase access from a porch or patio to other areas of your property. If you happen to have a pool, consider a pool lift for those that enjoy a swim but that have difficulty getting in-and-out of the water.

Increased accessibility preserves and protects autonomy

Physical limitations can impact more than access, a disability can lower morale, decrease social engagement, and hasten any existing medical conditions. Assistance through the use of mobility devices and equipment helps to preserve autonomy for those living independently. Fostering the inherent desire for independence can contribute to the overall quality of life experienced by your loved one that is living with a mobility issue.

Access improves overall quality of life

Studies show that people thrive with regular social engagement and interaction with others. Provide a means for those with physical disabilities or limitations to participate in community activities, visit friends, attend appointments, and run errands. This may include augments to the home, office, or vehicle, which can restore some of the freedoms that may hinge on overall quality of life.

Talk to the experts in mobility aids for a thorough assessment

Don’t ever purchase mobility aids without a thorough assessment of needs; this will save you time, energy, and money later, and ensures that you have the right equipment to facilitate access for your loved one. Buy your mobility aids from reputable and certified retailers with experience in the field, and a proven track-record of professional installation and customer satisfaction. While second-hand equipment may seem like a bargain, the safety risks and problems that it may bring are not worth it. Protect those you love and make the investment in quality lifts and aids.

It is estimated that one in five older Americans (age 65 and older) have a physical disability. This has led to increased choices and options when it comes to mobility aids and devices to increase access. Technology continues to improve upon conventional lifts and equipment, so the time is perfect to update, improve, and enhance the home, office, or car to improve the access and quality of life for someone you love.