Reduced mobility can result from aging or injury. It interferes with the quality of life, and it can be challenging to get things done on your own. Luckily, mobility aids help you regain your confidence by reducing your risks of falls or injuries as you try to move around. Many people find it hard to accept that they need a mobility aid and only do that when it’s too late. The first thing is to accept that you actually need mobility aid as you recover from your injury or to help you move around if you are a senior.

You can find a wide range of mobility aids in a Mobility Store these days, from walkers, wheelchairs, rollators, scooters, crutches, canes, etc. Unless you have specifications from your doctor, it can be overwhelming to pick the perfect mobility aid specifically for you. In addition to consulting your doctor, here are some tips to help you choose the right mobility aid.

Balance aids

You may be able to walk by yourself but may not be able to balance your steps, increasing the risks of falling. Balancing aids such as canes provide the perfect balance when walking. There are single tipped canes or a four clawed one (quad), which gives you hand support as you are strolling or walking around. When selecting a walking cane, ensure its size fits you well by ensuring the top of the can levels with your wrist’s inside crease when your arms are freely hanging at your sides. Also, it should have a rubber tip to avoid sliding on smooth surfaces.

Stability aids

A walker is an example of a mobility aid that provides balance, stability, and extra support. Stability aids come in different types and specifications to suit different needs. Rollators and specialty walkers work similarly to walkers, but they run on wheels and are suitable for both long and short distances, whether indoors and outdoors. However, if you can only move for a short distance, a rollator transport chair is suitable as it allows you to sit and rest as and your caregiver can push you for the rest of the journey. A walker with four wheels is meant for people who can stand or even walk independently but need a little extra support. They are stable and support the entire body’s weight taking the strain of the legs, ankles, and knees.

Transport aids

Transport aids such as wheelchairs are suitable when you can’t stand or walk on your own. If walking or standing is a strenuous activity for you, you should consider a full transport aid. However, they come in different types, so you should consult with your doctor to give you the specifications. You should also consider other things before you purchase. For instance, if you will be going for more outdoor trips around the neighborhood, you need a more durable type to withstand all surfaces. If it is for use indoors, a lightweight model will work just fine. Also, consider a foldable model that you can store in a car trunk when going for longer distances.

The bottom line

With the right mobility aid, you can still maintain an active and independent life. You only have to pick the right one specifically for your condition.