5 Assistive Aids For Senior Citizens To Enhance Mobility And Accessibility

After a certain age senior citizens need different kinds of care like palliative care, geriatric care, dementia care, eldercare facilities, etc. where some seniors may require more care due to more progressed mobility issues, and there are also those whose mobility issues can be addressed via assistive devices with minimal expenses. Many people do not have the means to get 24/7 care, especially in India. For them, these devices can be useful and thus may save money while managing accessibility issues.

Here are some assistive devices that may enhance mobility.

Mobility Aids

Mobility aids like walking canes and wheelchairs as well as mobility scooters are very popular with senior citizens. These mobility issues may create joint pains if not addressed properly and may even cause the need for major replacement surgeries, etc. While a walking cane may be used for minimal mobility issues, wheelchairs and mobility scooters are used to assist senior citizens with severe accessibility issues or in complete inability to move on their own.

Fall Alarms

Fall alarms are used to send help in case a senior citizen falls. These fall alarms can be installed in bathrooms or attached to clothes or worn like watches for better surveillance and have an SOS button installed. More advanced fall alarms assess the damage caused by the falls and allow you to be more cautious with movement. These fall alarms are used majorly in senior living facilities but can also be used at homes for caution.

GPS Trackers

GPS trackers for senior citizens provide real-time monitoring of their whereabouts, ensuring safety and peace of mind for caregivers and family members. These devices, designed for ease of use with features like fall detection, SOS buttons, two-way communication, and geofencing, can help locate seniors in case of loss, wandering, or medical emergencies. Wearing these devices as wristbands, necklaces, or clipped to clothing enhances independence and safety.

Stairlifts

A stairlift is a mobility device that enables individuals with limited mobility to safely navigate stairs. It consists of a chair or platform that moves along a rail system, reducing falls and improving independence. Stairlifts are typically installed on existing staircases and can be customized to fit different stair types.

Bed Rails and Grab Bars

Bed rails and grab bars are assistive devices that help individuals with mobility challenges maintain safety and independence. Bed rails are placed along bedsides to prevent falls and provide stable handholds, often used for seniors or those recovering from surgery. Grab bars, installed in bathrooms, hallways, or near stairways, offer a secure point of contact for stability and prevent slips and falls, especially in wet or slippery areas.