The Different Types of Mobility Aids and Their Distinct Benefits

If you or some of your family is dealing with some sort of mobility issue, then you probably need to some type of mobility aid. These devices are designed to make moving easier for all people who have mobility problems so they can feel more independent and free. These aids are usually used by people who have disabilities or injuries or older persons with an increased risk of falling. They offer a range of benefits for people who are using them including reduced pain, confidence, independence and self-esteem. There are a lot of different mobility aid products out there so which one to choose depends on your mobility issue or injury. In addition, take a look at some of the most common types of mobility aids available on the market.

Walkers

Walkers are featuring a metal frame and four legs that provide support and stability for the user. Some walkers feature wheels on the legs which is very helpful for people who suffer from limited arm strength. There are different types of walkers available out there. Rollators are the style of mobility aids that consist of handlebars, frame with four wheels and a seat so anytime the user gets tired he can stand and sit to rest. These walkers feature hand breaks as a safety feature. Another type is knee walkers which are similar to rollators. They allow the user to rest their knee while propelling themselves forward with the stronger leg. The last type is walker-cane hybrids which are something between a walker and a cane. It provides better support than a standard cane and features two legs instead of a full frame.

Crutches

These aids help the user to transfer weight from the legs to their upper body. They are usually a choice for people with permanent disabilities or short-term injuries and depending on the moving ability, they can be used singly or in pairs. Crutches also come in different types. For example, axillary crutches are usually used by people with short-term injuries. One part of it is placed under the armpits while the user holds on the hand grip. Lofstand crutches are another type of ait that involves placing the arm into the plastic or metal cuff and holding a hand grip. This makes it perfect for people with long-term disabilities. The last type is platform crutches which are rarely used. They are more recommended for people with a weak hand grip such as patients with a cerebral palsy or arthritis. 

Canes

These mobility aid products are very similar to crutches because they also support the weight of the body and transmit it to the upper part. They place greater pressure on the wrist and hands and take less weight compared to crutches. Assive canes are very helpful aids for people who have balancing issues and increased risk of falling. Just like all other types of aids, canes are also available in few different types including white canes, that is designed specifically for people who are visually impaired. They are thinner and longer than regular canes and the white colour inform other people that the user is visually impaired or blind. Quad canes feature four feet at the end, offering greater stability and wider base. The last type is forearm cane which offers extra forearm support.

There are some other types of mobility aids like wheelchairs and mobility scooters which are usually used by people with a higher level of disabilities. Mobility aid products are very beneficial for people with arthritis, cerebral palsy, development disabilities, diabetic ulcers and wounds, difficulties maintaining balance, fractures or broken bones in the lower limbs, injury to the feet, legs or back, walking impairment due to brain stroke or injury, blindness or visual impairment, etc.