In-home mobility equipment is designed to give greater freedom to the elderly and other people who have a difficult time moving around the house. It can range from something as simple as a cane to more permanent adjustments such as vehicle support handles, that help people move around their living space and the surrounding area more easily. If your loved one is struggling to move as easily as they used to, consider some of the following mobility equipment options for seniors.
Wheelchairs
Wheelchairs come in a wide range of styles, from traditional, large-wheeled chairs to smaller, more easily foldable models. Some wheelchairs make it easy for people to move around on their own by spinning the wheels, while others are designed to be maneuvered by a caregiver. Determine the safest and most convenient choice for your loved one by speaking with them and their doctor.
Portable Scooters
Portable scooters are battery-powered chairs, typically with three or four wheels, that easily fold up for transportation. Many come with a basket that can be used to hold essential items while the scooter is in use. These are ideal for shopping trips, outdoor events, and other situations that would otherwise require prohibitive amounts of walking.
Portable Chair Assists
Seniors often have a difficult time lowering themselves into seats and getting up again. A portable chair assist is a sturdy metal frame that can be placed in front of or next to a chair. The individual can then hold onto the frame when sitting or standing to provide extra stability. Most models are affordable and foldable, making it easy to use them at home or out enjoying the town, such as going to the movies, music performances, and fine dining at restaurants.
Vehicle Support Handles
Vehicle support handles are small handles that can be attached to the inside and outside of cars, giving your loved one a way to hold on and steady themselves when entering or exiting a car. This can be particularly helpful in cars that have a step-up ledge or that are high off the ground, as the increased distance to the interior may make it difficult to safely enter and exit the car.
Bed Rails
Bed rails serve a dual purpose. These wire frames, when attached, can give seniors an easy place to hold onto while they get themselves into and out of bed, providing extra stability during their daily routines. They also help prevent accidental falls in the middle of the night. If your loved one tends to be a restless sleeper, bed rails can prevent them from falling out of bed and injuring themselves.
Canes and Walkers
Canes and walkers are popular because of their wide range of styles. Canes can be as simple as a wooden stick with a rubber non-slip tip. They can also come in lightweight, collapsible varieties for easy portability and storage. Because canes are generally affordable mobility aids, many people choose to have a variety of options for different situations and occasions. Walkers, which require two hands to use and are therefore even more stable, are generally lightweight and foldable as well. Canes and walkers come in nearly every color, pattern, and material, making it easy to find one that shows off your loved one’s personality.
Raised Toilet Seats
Raised toilet seats make it easier for your loved one to sit, stand, and use the restroom on their own. They are easy to install and remove. Raised toilet seats are often padded for comfort and come in a range of heights, allowing you to select the most helpful option. Many raised toilet seats are equipped with handles to help make sitting down and getting up easier, though more compact models without handles are also available for smaller spaces.
Shower Chairs
Shower floors are often slippery surfaces, even with the help of non-slip rubber mats. For added safety and security, consider placing a chair in the shower so that your loved one can sit comfortably instead of standing. This can help prevent falls and help your loved one retain more independence by allowing them to shower on their own. Depending on the size and configuration of the shower, and your loved one’s needs, you can choose from a chair, backless stool, or bench.
In-Home Care Services
Contact Comfort Home Care for more information about in-home mobility equipment for seniors and to learn more about the agency’s in-home care services. Comfort Home Care’s professional home aides can assist your loved one with their daily activities, like dressing, bathing, and even light exercise, in the familiar surroundings of their own home. This helps your loved one maintain their health and independence while giving you and other family caregivers the ability to rest, attend to other tasks, and come back to your caregiving responsibilities feeling refreshed.
