Mobility is an important part of many of our lives. However, it is something we cannot always rely on. Both health conditions and the ageing process can reduce our mobility, making it harder to perform activities such as visiting the shops or walking around the park. When mobility becomes difficult, you may want to consider mobility aids. In this article, we will look at the best walking aids for elderly and disabled adults.
Why Use Walking Aids
None of us like to think that we’re struggling. We don’t want to see ourselves as weak or lacking independence. For this reason, the idea of using walking aids may not appeal to you. However, it is important to recognise that there is nothing wrong with using mobility aids. They are merely a tool to help you achieve the best possible quality of life. A walking aid can help you maintain your independence and reduces your risk of experiencing falls.
For additional peace of mind, you might also want to consider a personal alarm.
Best Walking Aids
There are a wide range of walking aids available for elderly and disabled people in the UK, all of which are designed to make life easier for you. Many offer additional benefits beyond mobility support, making them the top products in their market.
Walking Frames
When you need additional support moving around the home, you might consider a walking frame. Also known as Zimmer frames, these are reasonably simple looking pieces of equipment that help to disperse your weight, making it easier to stand and move around. Some come fitted with wheels on the front, whilst others have rubber feet for additional stability.
For the best support, we recommend a walking frame with forearm support, such as those provided by Complete Care Shop.
Walking Cane
When out of the home, you may prefer a more subtle means of supporting your mobility. Rather than taking a large metal frame with you, a simple but strong walking cane could offer the support you need. Usually constructed with aluminium, walking canes are lightweight, making them ideal if you struggle with your balance.
There are several options available when choosing a walking cane. You can opt for a crook-style handle or a swan-type one depending on the grip you need. Collapsible canes are also available so that you can easily carry your cane when you don’t need it.
If you are thinking about a walking cane as one of your walking aids, check out our post by Neo Walk.
Rollators
For a more practical example of walking aids when out and about, consider a rollator walker. These are wheeled walkers that help to take the weight off your legs, making mobility easier. Most models come fitted with brakes so you never lose control of them.
What makes rollator walkers a great choice of mobility aid is their design. Not only do they aid with balance whilst walking around, but they can be used to carry your items. Rather than weighing yourself down with a bag or filling your pockets, you can keep your money, phone, and anything else you need outside of the home in your rollator.
Some rollator walkers can even be used as seats if you need a rest but there aren’t any benches nearby. You can find a variety of rollator walkers on the CareCo website.
Crutches
In some cases, a walking stick may not offer the support you need but a walking frame or rollator may seem too bulky. Crutches could be a suitable solution. One of the main advantages of using crutches is that they can take more weight off your legs than a regular walking stick. This is because you use more of your arm with a crutch. This effectively makes it an extra leg whilst keeping you upright.
Crutches can also be an affordable option. You may be able to get them free on the NHS if an assessment determines that you need them, but crutches can also be purchased through retailers such as Argos.
Choosing a Walking Aid
When deciding which of these walking aids is best for you, it’s important to think about what support you need. If you have trouble with your balance from time to time, a walking cane may be all you need. However, if you find yourself regularly unsteady or getting tired after short walks, a rollator walker or walking frame may be a better option.
If you are struggling with your mobility, you should consider consulting your doctor. They may be able to point you towards the right walking aid as well as providing other advice for supporting your mobility.
Further Support from LifeConnect24
Mobility problems can be a cause of concern. We may worry that, even with walking aids, we might still experience a fall. If this does happen, how can we ensure we get the help we need? Fortunately, a Lifeline alarm from LifeConnect24 can help.
With a Lifeline alarm, it’s easy to arrange help. You simply press the button on your pendant or base unit and an alert is sent to our 24/7 Response Team. They will then inform your emergency contacts and, if necessary, the emergency services that help is required. For additional peace of mind, you may want to consider a fall detector alarm.
To find out more about the service LifeConnect24 provides, read our detailed guide. If you have any questions about our products, please do not hesitate to get in touch by calling our team on 0800 030 8999.
Editor’s Note: This article was updated on 10th November 2023 to reflect current information.
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