Relying on others to do things for them is among the greatest frustrations our senior loved ones experience. For many, being unable to handle the “little things” and take care of themselves as they used to do robs them of their independence and dignity. It turns their perception of themselves as a helpful, valuable person into becoming more of a “burden” to their family and friends, no matter how hard we try to convince them otherwise.
But it doesn’t have to be that way. Over the years, mobility aids for seniors have been developed to help them get around the pitfalls that force them to rely on others while protecting them from injuries that could threaten their health.
There are a variety of mobility aids for seniors available today. There are also devices specifically designed to address mobility issues for those living with Parkinson’s disease and Multiple Sclerosis, as well as people recovering from medical issues such as strokes. The devices not only help older family members get around, but they also help them stay safe by preventing potentially dangerous falls.
Top Mobility Aids for Seniors:
1. Rehab poles
They look like a pair of ski poles, but these mobility aids for seniors have grippy rubber feet at the bottom that are perfect for portable stability. Rehab poles work like having a cane in both hands, able to bear around 300 pounds and offering more maneuverability in tight spaces than a wheeled walker.
2. Bed handle rails
Getting in and out of bed can be one of the most dangerous moves a senior makes each day, constantly risking a hard fall to the floor. Fortunately, there are a variety of bed handle rails available that give older adults a firm place to get a grip as they shift their weight onto or off their mattress.
3. Pull up ladder
Another handy—and affordable—device is the pull up ladder. It attaches to the foot end of the bed and helps seniors go from a reclined position to sitting up by using their arms to pull themselves up the rungs of the ladder.
4. Medical alert wearables
A valuable insurance policy for seniors is a bracelet or a necklace that allows them to summon help in case they take a spill. Typically, these mobility aids for seniors have a button that calls for help with a single touch, although some devices contain sensors that automatically detect a fall and summon assistance without your loved one having to take any action at all. If you’re worried about your senior loved one being injured by a fall at home, an alert wearable might help provide you with some peace of mind.
5. Chair lift
Standing up after relaxing in their favorite chair can be almost impossible for seniors who suffer from arthritis and joint problems. Fortunately, a power lift recliner or portable chair lift can be the solution to the problem. The device can be placed on just about any armchair, sofa or loveseat, and when activated by remote control, gives a helpful boost of up to 20 inches that can be activated by remote control. When your loved one is ready to get up and move around, all they need to do is push the button.
6. Shower and bath grab handles
One of the most important places for an independent senior to be able to navigate is the bathroom. Tubs and showers can be extremely slippery, but our loved ones can protect themselves from a devastating fall by strategically placing a couple of grab handles to hold onto as they enter and exit. Grab handles are available with strong suction cups that allow them to be installed without the assistance of tools and to be easily relocated if necessary.
These are just a few examples of many mobility aids for seniors that can make getting around safer and easier. If your senior loved one has a mobility issue that prevents them from fully enjoying their life and remaining independent, consult their physician or physical therapist for recommendations about what devices could be used to help them get up, down and around wherever they call home.
Explore Bethesda’s Health & Wellness blog for more resources.
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