5 Tips for Choosing the Right Mobility Assistive Device

Mobility issues are one of the most common medical conditions that seniors deal with today. In fact, approximately 6.8 million Americans use assistive devices like canes to aid their mobility. Fortunately, there are numerous types of mobility devices available for assistance today. There are wooden canes for those who require a little assistance and there are electric scooters for those seniors that require even more assistance. These suggestions will help you choose the right mobility device for your personal needs.

Evaluate your mobility needs

Every senior?s mobility situation is different. Your mobility situation might even differ, depending on your location. For example, you might feel more comfortable with an electric scooter in public and you might prefer wooden canes or custom walking canes for mobility around your own house. Evaluate both your mobility needs and location needs. What type of mobility situations do you find yourself in the most? What type of mobility device would be most beneficial for those specific situations?

Continue improving your mobility

Moving to an assistive mobility device does not mean that you should give up improving. Sometimes, mobility devices are temporary. However, even if it is permanent, you can still work out those walking muscles to prevent further loss of mobility. Additionally, improving your mobility will reduce the risk of falls and injuries. Every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall. Many of these falls are due to a complete lack of mobility. Wooden canes are great for assistance when needed, but exercise is still important.

Never feel ashamed

Some seniors try to put off the use of mobility devices out of shame. Wooden canes and other mobility devices may make you feel old, but they don?t have to. Try customized and personalized wooden canes. These decorative and classy canes and walking sticks allow you to practice safety in style. Also, remember that mobility devices are for your safety. Walking canes are a fairly common type of mobility device. Just about 4.8 million Americans (70% of mobility device users) walk with a cane, making canes the most widely used mobility device in the U.S. Younger patients may also require canes from time to time, meaning they are not solely for senior patients.

Invest in a high quality mobility device

Your mobility device is not a good area to cut costs. Because mobility devices and wooden canes are used for safety, it is important to choose one that is sturdy and safe. Wooden canes are fairly popular because the solid structure of the wood makes them very sturdy. There are many different types of canes for sale to choose from. If you require extra assistance, but do not want to take an electric scooter out, consider investing in a cane with seat. Canes with seats ensure that you always have a place to sit. This is a great option for long waits or for that extra rest.

Know when to upgrade

It is possible that your mobility needs will change. It is important to know when it is time to upgrade. This upgrade might mean purchasing a stronger cane, moving to a cane with a seat, or upgrading to a scooter. Upgrading your mobility device does not mean that you are lazy or declining in health, it simply means that you would feel safer with a little more assistance.

Many seniors and medical patients rely on the use of walking devices for mobility assistance. Walking assistive devices include canes, scooters, electric scooters, and wheeled canes. The right type of mobility device will depend on your specific assistive needs and the type of environment that you reside in. Choose a mobility device that is strong, safe, and very durable. Know when it is time to upgrade to additional mobility assistance and continue working out those muscles.