Mobility Support for Seniors

Mobility aids and supports are assistive technologies that help seniors remain active and live their lives with as little disruption as possible. A variety of pictures come to mind with the mention of the phrase 'mobility aid' or 'mobility support' but the simplest definition is that a mobility aid is a tool that can make life easier.

Assistance with Walking
For centuries, the basic cane has helped people retain their balance while walking and it's been modified in recent years to include 4 feet if needed, for extra stability. The cane remains a popular mobility aid among the senior population.

Walkers or 'Rollators' are also popular for those needing assistance walking and are available as a basic aluminum framework with handles to the deluxe version with wheels, brakes, storage and even a seat. A senior purchasing a Rollator should check with the supplier whether it's covered under the (ADP) Assistive Devices Program for insurance purposes. Then check your provincial government website about eligibility for a subsidy on the purchase of your walker or Rollator.

Wheelchairs and Scooters
The basic wheelchair is a popular form of mobility support commonly used for short-term disabilities making travel possible where it may otherwise be difficult. Scooters and motorized wheelchairs are also becoming a popular form of getting around and summer outings or short excursions that may not have been possible without one are made possible and even enjoyable.

When purchasing a scooter or motorized wheelchair be sure to take advantage of the professional assistance provided for learning the features of the device. The cost of wheelchairs and scooters range from $1,500 to $5,000 and should be custom fitted to the user and as with Rollators, check with the supplier insurance purposes and your provincial government website for eligibility under the (ADP) Assistive Devices Program.

Mobility Assistance around Home

Grab Bars, Grabbers and Reachers
For seniors spending their retirement years aging at home, a top priority is ensuring that the home is comfortable, user-friendly and accommodating for disabilities. Grab bars in washrooms for help and safety while getting in and out of the shower or bathtub are important additions to the home. And a tool not to be overlooked is the 'Grabber' or 'Reacher' that allow a person access to top shelves in the kitchen, or picking things up from the floor without having to bend.

Lift Chairs
A lift chair is a reclining chair and an important assistive device for seniors that have difficulty standing. The lift chair will raise the person safely to an upright position and the mechanism within the chair helps with getting seated to a comfortable position as well. LiftChairsDirect.ca is partnered with Medi-Card for financing plans ranging from six months to five years and any individual regardless of age or medical condition may apply for assistance.

Getting in an out of the Car
Handybars offer the user protection from falls and allow getting into and out of the car safely. Handybars work for both driver and passenger side doors in most types of vehicles and have the additional features of seat belt cutter and window breaker in the event of an emergency.

The swivel cushion is a flexible soft cushion that swivels 360 degrees allowing for getting in and out of the car easily and comfortably. It's universal fit allows it to be used in most cars and requires no installation, just place it on the seat and enjoy the mobility it allows.

These are a few of the popular mobility aids available to seniors and individuals requiring assistance. As technology advances we continue to see innovative ideas and new products that make everyday tasks more convenient and allow us levels of freedom that we may not have without them, as we age.