Getting older can often lead to struggles with mobility. However, older adults need to stay active to stay healthy. This is where mobility aids can prove helpful. They provide extra support and reassurance to your loved ones, helping them to stay independent.
There are many different types of mobility aid on the market today. In this article, we will look at the best value options for your loved ones.
Walking Sticks
If your loved ones are a little unsteady on their feet, or get tired easily, a walking stick is a simple but effective solution. They serve almost like an extra leg, relieving some weight from your loved one’s joints. This can prevent aches and pains and reduce fatigue. When your loved one feels tired, they can stop to lean on their stick whilst they catch their breath.
Moreover, walking sticks come in a variety of styles and sizes, making it easy to find one that suits your loved one’s needs. Some can fold out into a convenient seat, whilst others are collapsible and can be kept in a bag. Your loved one can also choose between wooden walking sticks or weight-bearing aluminium.
Fortunately, walking sticks are amongst the most affordable of mobility aids. Prices start at as little as £10, though more specialist types will require a larger investment.
Walking Frames
A walking stick may not offer enough support for your loved one. In these cases, it may be worth spending a little extra money on a decent walking frame. These mobility aids are sturdier than a walking stick and provide three or four legs for additional support. This allows them to take more weight off your loved one’s limbs.
Walking frames are also lightweight, making them easy to move around whilst also serving as reliable mobility aids. Some are also adjustable. Furthermore, your loved one can choose between frames with rubber fit, preventing them from sliding away, or wheels, which are great if your loved one is confident but just needs a little extra support.
Some frames even come with bags or seats. What’s more, they are also very reasonably priced. A basic walking frame won’t cost your loved one more than £30, and a wheeled frame – known as a Rollator – starts at around £70.
Wheelchairs
Your loved one may be reluctant to use a wheelchair, but these mobility aids can offer extra peace of mind when out and about. Like walking frames, they can be used to offer additional support whilst walking. Your loved one may find they benefit from the option to sit down when they need to.
Using a wheelchair also gives them the option of saving their energy for a specific activity. They could remain seated on the journey to a water aerobics class, for example, avoiding any strain before taking part.
Wheelchairs can prove more expensive than walking sticks and walking frames. Prices can start at around £150, but top models may cost in excess of £500. However, your loved one may be eligible for a free NHS wheelchair. If a doctor believes your loved one may benefit from a wheelchair as a mobility aid, they may refer you to the NHS Wheelchair Service. They will either provide a wheelchair free of charge or give your loved one a voucher towards the cost of one.
Stairlifts
Stairs can prove challenging for older adults with mobility issues. If downsizing and moving into a bungalow does not seem financially viable, your elderly loved ones may benefit from a stairlift. These mobility aids eliminate the need to walk up the stairs. Instead, your loved one simply sits down and lets the device carry them up.
Stairlifts can be fantastic investments, as they reduce the likelihood of tripping on the stairs or having a fall. However, a stairlift is not as affordable as other mobility aids. Getting one fitted could put your loved one back by up to £2,000. This, though, could be a small price to pay for extra peace of mind, and is certainly cheaper than moving home.
