When loved ones reach a certain age, they require a little extra help getting around. The right ambulatory aids ensure they do not give up on doing the things they want to do, and that they maintain a high quality of life. Ambulatory equipment, like walkers, scooters, and wheelchairs, keep loved ones safe as they move around both inside and outside their homes. It’s simply a matter of matching the right piece of equipment to the right situation.
Walkers
If your loved one is still able to get up and move around, but you’re worried about falls, a walker is your best option. Walkers are all about balance. Although a loved one may have the muscle mass to support themselves, their balance often deteriorates before strength. This leaves individuals with sudden bouts of dizziness, and it’s all too easy to overbalance and fall. Loved ones transitioning into decreased muscle mass and balance can keep a walker folded up in a closet, or beside a bed. It will be there when they need it, but it won’t interfere with their lifestyle when they don’t.
Walkers also function as canes mixed with crutches. If your loved one has a joint condition that makes walking painful, they can use a walker to remove some of the pressure from their lower body by supporting themselves with their arms. They retain the dignity of walking with a dramatically lowered risk of falls.
Scooters
For loved ones who face many challenges when they walk, a scooter could provide an easy way to restore mobility without adding risk. Although many individuals who use scooters still walk reasonably well over short distances, scooters allow loved ones to take trips outside, through stores, and on vacations without worry. Scooters also make carrying items easier, which is a major concern for many aging individuals. It’s impossible to safely carry a shopping bag and use a walker at the same time. Scooters are easy to modify with baskets and storage bags and simplify daily life without compromising safety.
Wheelchairs
As loved ones age, they often need extra help, and a wheelchair allows them to travel with dignity, even if they need some assistance. Those with sufficient upper body strength can still move around with relative ease. It’s simple for an assistant to offer help when needed, too.
Wheelchairs work well with other ambulatory equipment. It’s a good idea to keep one on hand in case of a fall or accident, especially when loved ones temporarily lose their powers of independent mobility. Wheelchairs fold up well and store neatly. Sometimes a loved one may just be having a tiring day, or wants to go on an outing that exceeds their stamina. In either case, a handy wheelchair allows them to press on despite fatigue.
Which piece of ambulatory equipment would most benefit your loved ones? Are they transitioning between these phases? Regardless of what aids they use, make sure to consider safety first. With a walker, scooter, or wheelchair, loved ones can get out and do more, and they will be much safer at the same time.