While we may want to live forever young, unfortunately, aging is unavoidable. Chances are that you were once a young vibrant individual that could get up and get going without any hitches. But now, the same cannot be said again, especially as you become a senior.
Maybe you had a foot injury that makes walking difficult. And your walker or cane is just not helping that much anymore. Perhaps you are finding it difficult getting around things you could normally do with ease.
Aging is not a crime; it’s actually what we all desire, and yet, not everyone gets the privilege. You don’t have to miss out on your favorite activities or spending time with loved ones. With mobility aids such as a good wheelchair, you can get back your independence. If you happen to be looking for one, Healthcreeds has reviewed some of the best manual wheelchairs on the market.
Who needs a mobility aid and why?
A mobility aid is not limited to seniors alone. Mobility aids are very helpful for anyone with a foot injury, disability or difficulty in walking. Seniors who have problems with balance when standing will also benefit from such aids.
Such mobility aids like a manual wheelchair can reduce pain; increase your self-esteem and confidence. While a manual wheelchair has the capacity to relieve you of more pains since you won’t have to use your legs, you can also make use of other aids like crutches and cane.
But then, how can you tell if it’s time to get a mobility aid?
Here are 5 signs that say it’s time to get one:
- Easily Exhausted
Have you been getting easily exhausted in recent times? Do you find it difficult to stand for a long time? Or maybe you are dealing with a health challenge such as stroke, ALS, or multiple sclerosis. Or you notice that you can no longer get around with ease like you used to. If your answer is yes to any of these questions, then you definitely need a mobility aid. Having one that comes with a seat can relieve you of stress and still get you where you want to go.
- Frequent Falls
According to World Health Organization (WHO), the second major reason for accidents among seniors is falls. If you are over 65 years, your chances of sustaining serious injury from falls increases. Sadly, deciding that you will no longer leave the house so as to protect yourself from possible fall is not a guarantee. You could fall from using the bathroom in your home. If you have fallen down more than twice within the past 3 months, it’s an indication that you should get a mobility aid.
- Pain In The Knees
Apart from those who suffer from arthritis and other knee problems, aging can cause pain in the knees. Some seniors tend to have sharp pains in the knees, especially when standing. When you start dreading going out or running errands due to pain, then an assistive mobile device can help. You can first start with a cane and see if the pain gets better. If not, then you need a wheelchair to allow the knee rest and recover.
- Problems With Balancing
This is another important sign to look out for. Challenges with maintaining your balance can lead to falls. Dizziness when standing is another indicator that you need to get a mobility aid. There is no better way to regain your balance than using a mobility device. Other things that can affect your balance are blurred vision, feeling unsteady or lightheaded. If your room feels like its spinning when you stand, you also need to get a mobility aid.
- Afraid of Certain Weather Conditions
Some weather conditions can aggravate knee pain in seniors or people with knee issues. If you are already battling with maintaining your balance, bad weather can make it worse. What happens is that you begin to prefer isolation to going out. Winter time is one major season that is known to bring on such discomfort. If all you worry about is that you might fall when outside, you can get boots with studs to increase traction. But if the issue is associated with pain or imbalance, you might find that using a wheelchair or walker helps.
Why should you use a wheelchair?
Seniors who want to avoid putting strain on their knees often find wheelchairs to be incredibly helpful. These devices provide excellent support, making movement easier and more comfortable.
People with disabilities can also get a lot done by using a wheelchair. It also allows them to cover greater distances than they could on foot.
You can manually push a wheelchair or have someone assist you when you’re tired. Alternatively, some wheelchairs are electrically powered, or even propelled by neural impulses. With technology rapidly advancing, there are also wheelchairs designed to support you while standing, offering even greater mobility and independence.
Summary
Agreeably, mobility aids are very helpful but not everyone would want to use one. Some people live in denial and would instead prefer to continue bearing the pains.
If you are having issues with getting around, you can really benefit from making use of a mobility aid. It makes life so much easier and enjoyable. You get to keep maintaining your lifestyle and enjoying your independence.
If you have made up your mind to get a mobility aid, the first step you should take is to consult with your doctor.
The doctor will be in a better position to advice you on which to start with first. And should you still be encountering the same difficulty that you used to experience, you may need to change to another device.
Our advice is to be as open as possible with your doctor so that the right mobility aid will be recommended for you.
