Restricted movements cause a lot of suffering for disabled people, especially the elderly, who desperately look for some resources for disabled adults that can help them to be on their own to some extent. To overcome limited mobility and restricted movements, various mobility aids and assisted devices are available that reduce the risks of going off-balance when standing or walking. In addition, mobility and assistive devices provide several benefits, including freedom of movement, increased confidence, reduced pain, and increased self-esteem.
Every assistive device has the purpose of supporting people for some specific needs. Therefore, it is vital to ascertain the type of assistance needed that helps to choose the right kind of assistive device. By considering the type of injury and physical infirmity, and the person’s lifestyle, it is possible to identify the most appropriate mobility aid that allows them to move around by themselves. The joy of being free from any human dependence enhances the joy of living many more times.
Here are some common types of mobility aids that are beneficial for disabled adults.
Canes and sticks
Canes support people by transferring the body weight from the legs to the upper body while reducing the stress on the legs. Canes have limited ability to provide relief compared to crutches because it offsets lesser body weight from the legs than crutches. Moreover, canes put greater pressure on the wrists and hands. Nevertheless, canes are helpful as it helps people maintain their balance and reduces the risk of falling. In the US, almost 10% of the adult population above 65 years uses canes. The visually impaired people use White Canes specially created for exclusive assistance by enabling users to detect objects that come in their way. These canes are usually longer than standard canes.
Crutches
The operation of crutches is the same as that of canes as it transmits the body weight from the legs to the upper body. Crutches are longer than canes and can be used in pairs or single. Traditional Axillary crutches put pressure on the underarms where it rests while there is a handgrip to hold upon and maneuver the device. These crutches are suitable for those with short-term injuries. The forearm crutches or Lofstrand crutches allow placing the arm into a plastic or metal cuff while clutching on the handgrip, which suits people with long-term disabilities.
Walkers
Walkers have metal frameworks with four legs for providing stability and support to users. Users can lean on the walkers and glide them (if the walker has wheels) or lift it and place it ahead to help them take the next step forward. Atypical walker has a 3-sided frame that users can lean upon to allow complete balance while they move along with the device.
Wheelchairs
Those who are unable to walk or not allowed to put weight on their lower limbs must depend on wheelchairs to move around. It is for people with severe disabilities who can comfortably sit while the device rolls along. Manually operated as well as electrically powered wheelchairs are available.
