Why Mobility Aids Make A difference in Old Age

People in the UK are living longer and want to stay in their homes in old age. This means there is an increasing need for equipment to help them do this. Simple items like grab rails, ramps, mobility walkers and special kitchenware are among those helping people stay independent.

By 2027, 20% of the population will be over 65 years of age, according to government figures. This is likely to put extra strain on the already-stretched NHS. Because of this, it is important to find ways for people to live without assistance for as long as possible.

Support Rails in the Home

One simple type of mobility aid is the support rail. These provide stability to the user when fitted to walls next to wash basins, baths or toilets. They are available in many lengths, colors and styles. Some are suitable for outside use and made with non-corrosive materials. White rails with texture grip surfaces are popular for use in the bathroom.

Some rails are free-standing and do not require fixing to a wall. Toilet frames provide support when sitting down and standing up at the WC. Similar rails are available for use when getting in and out of bed.

Bathtub grab bars are also increasingly popular. These provide the means to wash and bathe without assistance.

Walking Aids

If Arthritis or another condition affects your ability to walk, a walking frame or zimmer frame might help. They are now among the most common mobility aids in the UK. They are easy to use, thanks to their lightweight construction. Mobility walkers like this are available with or without wheels.

A rollator is the name given to a more robust walking aid. These are available with either three or four wheels and are sometimes fitted with brakes. Many rollators also have an integral seat and a basket. This makes them ideal for trips to the shops.

Most rollators are foldable so are easily stored when not in use.

Kitchen Mobility Equipment

There are many special tools available to make life easier in the kitchen. Adapted cutlery can make a big difference for those with a weak grip. Perching stools help the user ‘semi-sit’ at a worktop while preparing food. Support rails provide an extra safety feature where needed.

Because many people suffer in later life with a tremor, devices are available to lock food in place for slicing. This reduces the risk of knife injury.

Tin-openers which work at the touch of a button are also helpful aids. Thus, food preparation requires less physical strength.

Crutches and Walking Sticks

Traditional mobility aids in the UK include crutches. These are available in various styles to suit the individual. Most manufacturers use aluminum to make modern crutches. This is because of its lightweight properties, combined with being rigid and strong.

Adjustable length crutches make them suitable for various heights of user. These are useful for those with mobility issues following injury.

Aluminum walking sticks are also growing in popularity, but wooden varieties are still common. The walking stick or cane is an effective aid for those struggling to walk unassisted. Fitting rubber feet prevents walking sticks slipping in wet conditions.

Aids for Leisure

Pastimes like gardening are popular with the over 65s in the United Kingdom. There are many garden mobility aids in the UK made to reduce strain on the body. The garden kneeler for example makes it easier to rise from the ground when weeding or planting.

A range of tools including trowels and garden forks are available with an adapted grip. Its design makes it easier to maintain the tool in a stable position, while requiring minimal strength.

Reaching and Turners

Reaching aids assist those with a limited ability to stretch. Their use also reduces the need to bend down to pick things up.

Other simple devices make it easier to us plugs or turn door levers. Again, these are especially valuable to those with reduced strength in their hands, or who suffer with a tremor.

Derry has been working in the mobility aids industry since 2003, acquiring a wealth of knowledge along the way. Before Essential Aids, Derry's background was in engineering. In his spare time he is a devotee of yoga and rare reggae vinyl.