The Importance of Accessibility: How Mobility Aids Can Improve Your Quality of Life
Are you or a loved one experiencing difficulties with mobility? Don’t let limited mobility hold you back from living your best life.
From wheelchairs to walkers, there are numerous mobility aids available that can drastically improve your quality of life and increase accessibility.
If you would like to know more about what support is out there for people with disabilities, then you’ll be pleased to know that today we will explore the importance of accessibility and how using mobility aids can help you maintain independence, participate in activities you enjoy, and ultimately live a more fulfilling life.
Accessibility and Mobility Aids
There are many ways to increase accessibility and mobility in your home. Some simple changes can make a big difference in your ability to move around your home and participate in activities.
These devices can help you get in and out of chairs, walk on different types of surfaces, turn doorknobs, open cabinets, and much more.
If you would like to know more about what is available for your disability, you should talk to your doctor or occupational therapist about which devices would be right for you. They can also provide tips on how to use the devices properly.
Pros and Cons of Different Mobility Aids
Canes:
Canes are the most basic form of mobility aid. They provide support and stability for those who have difficulty walking without assistance. These aids are typically less expensive than other types of mobility aids, and they are easy to transport and store.
However, canes can be difficult to use if you have limited upper body strength, and they may not provide enough support for those with more significant mobility issues.
Walkers:
Walkers offer more support than canes and are ideal for those who need assistance with balance or have difficulty walking without support. Walkers typically have four legs, which makes them more stable than canes.
They also usually have a seat, which can be used when resting or taking a break from walking. But, walkers can be cumbersome to maneuver and may not be suitable for use in narrow spaces.
Scooters:
Scooters offer the most support of all the mobility aids listed here. They are electric-powered vehicles that allow users to sit while they travel. Scooters typically have a longer range than walkers or canes, making them ideal for longer journeys.
They can also be fitted with a variety of accessories, such as baskets or storage compartments, to make transportation easier. On the other side, scooters are more expensive than other mobility aids and may not be suitable for those with limited upper body strength.
These are the most well-known disability aids for people to use. However, depending on your disability, you may need the use of multiple aids, or ones that are made to your specifications so you can get the most benefit out of them.
Before you buy a mobility aid, it is important that you get assessed to see what will suit you best. Once you have been tested and your doctor has gone over what areas you need the most help with, they will explain to you what will happen next and if you will need to be reassessed again at a later date.
How to Help Someone With a Disability
Having a disability can prove to be quite difficult in a world where so many activities are catered to able-bodied people.
There are ways that people who are not disabled can help those that are.
Learn about their specific needs and how to best help them
This means researching mobility aids (as above) and seeing if there is anything you can do to make their days easier such as cleaning around the house, cooking their meals, and going shopping with them.
Be patient and understanding – remember that it takes them longer to do things than it does for you
There will be a delay in the things that they do. This is not their fault. You should be kind and compassionate about what they are going through. Don’t force them or get annoyed if they are moving slower than you.
Drive them to doctor’s appointments or wherever else they need to go
Disabled people will do whatever they can to regain as much independence as possible, however, there are times when they will need that little bit of extra help. They might not be able to drive, so it would be a good idea to offer your services instead of them taking public transport.
Advocate for them – be their voice when they cannot speak up for themselves
Show your care and support by showing up for them. They might find it hard at times to speak about what they are going through, so be that person who can speak for them when they are going through some difficulty.
Conclusion
Accessibility is important to ensure that everyone can live an independent and fulfilling life.
Mobility aids are essential in helping those with disabilities or limited mobility get around more easily. It also provides them with greater confidence and freedom.
Whether you need a wheelchair ramp or stair lift, being able to access your environment is essential for leading an active lifestyle – something we all strive for.
