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If you have been experiencing mobility challenges, you may be in the process of choosing a mobility aid. Introducing a mobility aid to your daily routine can be a fantastic way to increase your independence and add a bit of comfort as you are going about your daily business.

However, choosing a mobility aid can require some consideration. There are many options to choose from, and which one is right for you will depend on your specific mobility struggles as well as the demands of your lifestyle.

Luckily, here at Mobility Plus we have plenty of expertise in helping individuals choose the right mobility aid for their needs. Keep reading to learn more about the choices available and find out which mobility aid is right for you.

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1. Canes

The first port of call for more mild mobility issues will be a cane. Using a cane can provide you with an additional point of support, which can hold up to 25 percent of a person’s body weight.

Using a cane is a great way to increase your stability, particularly if you have one leg that is weaker than the other. If you still want to walk around but need a little extra support, a cane is perfect for you. However, using one does require a little strength in your hand and arm to grip.

There are different options here – if your grip is weaker, you can opt for a horizontal grip cane. Some canes also have a quad base, allowing them to stand upright when not in use. This can be handy in that you don’t have to balance the cane, but it will be a little heavier to carry.

2. Walkers and Rollators

If you are looking for a little extra support, a walker or rollator might be for you. A walker has two or four legs and can support up to 50 percent of body weight. However, the walker must be lifted each time you take a step, requiring more hand and arm strength than a cane.

If this is not a viable option, you could consider a wheeled walker – also called a rollator. These have several wheels on the bottom of the legs and can be pushed along as you walk, rather than being lifted with each step. This makes manoeuvres easier and less tiring. However, if you have balance issues, the wheels may not provide enough stability for your needs.

3. Power Scooters

For those who are finding it difficult to walk long distances, a power scooter might be a better option. There are various models available, both for indoor and outdoor use, as well as lightweight or heavy-duty models.

Using a power scooter can be much less tiring than walking, however you will need some dexterity to operate it, as well as being comfortable sitting upright for an extended period of time. If you have arthritis, for example, this may not be the best option for you.

4. Manual Wheelchairs

If you have trouble sitting upright or operating the machinery of a scooter, a manual wheelchair might be your best option. Those with strength in the arms will be able to push the wheels easily to get around the house, or otherwise a loved one will easily be able to push the chair from behind.

There are various models of manual wheelchairs available, all suiting different needs. For example, individuals with spinal cord injuries often opt for ultra-lightweight models. These allow for various adjustments, including armrests and a range of different tyres.

5. Power Wheelchairs

Finally, there are power wheelchairs. There are countless variants when it comes to power wheelchairs, all with different features such as front-wheel drive, independent suspension and so on.

A power wheelchair will allow you to move around indoors and outdoors without having to self-propel or be pushed. They are also typically more compact than a mobility scooter, making them easier to manoeuvre.

As you can see, there are plenty of options when it comes to choosing your mobility aid. If you would like specialist advice on choosing a model to suit your lifestyle, call us for free and we will be happy to assist you.