Mobility technology is empowering an active-aging society to reclaim their independence and navigate aging-in-place life ache-free. From traditional walkers to upright stand-alone rollators, here are the top seven technologies paving the way for mobility-restricted senior citizens in 2021.
State-of-the-art upright walkers
Traditional walkers and rollators certainly deserve credit for the independence they grant to seniors, but they also require hunching over and encourage poor posture. This disadvantage is why upright walkers like The Perfect Walker are becoming more and more prevalent in the lives of seniors today.
Created using images from https://www.theperfectwalker.com/.
Upright alternatives are the most popular mobility-assistive tools and compared to traditional walkers, their benefits include:
- Reducing back pains due to an ergonomic design that make users stand straight
- Typically including a pull-down seat to rest anywhere conveniently
- Greater autonomy to prolong outdoor activities
- Greater control through anti-slip handgrips and sturdy wheels.
Mobility scooters
A notable addition to the new mobility wave, mobility scooters are electric vehicles that primarily serve to assist mobility-restricted individuals. Unlike power wheelchairs, mobility scooters are generally more affordable, convenient to handle, and customizable. These state-of-the-art and on-the-go-friendly mobility aids typically carry the extra convenience of a portable basket and footrest.
iBot wheelchair
Compared to mobility scooters, this next innovation is undoubtedly an upgrade. The iBot motorized wheelchair is an advanced electric vehicle that can climb stairs, elevate the user to a certain height while scaling a staircase, and transport them at a regular walking speed. It also features self-balancing technology to help climb stairs without anyone having to carry the user.
Stairlift
As one of the most affordable assistive devices, installing a stairlift is ideal for those seniors who’ve elected to age in place. Mobility-restricted users can enjoy the comfort and safety of climbing the staircase by sitting on the device and controlling a lever. The device slides up or down the steps. Stairlifts are an excellent option for making the home safer for the elderly whenever living on the ground floor is not an option.
Sock aid kits
Preparing to stand and move is just as critical as moving itself, and finding comfortable footwear can be especially important. Sock aid kits help senior adults dress by eliminating the need to bend over when putting on socks. They include a foot chute that allows the user to slide on socks without caregiver assistance easily. Some are even designed to complement larger feet or arthritis conditions.
Power-lift recliners
If snuggling up in a well-loved recliner poses a challenge for your elderly loved one, these high-tech alternatives may be the long-sought-after solution to grunting and groaning. For those unfamiliar with the technology, a power-lift recliner tilts the person forward to lift them, eliminating the need for unnecessary scooting or core muscle strain. As a bonus, power-lift recliners can also lean back and have wheels to allow ease of transfer.
If a hassle-free seating arrangement piques your interest, scan the market for models with the features your elderly loved one requires, such as multi-level adjustments for comfortable positioning, built-in back-massage technology, and heat therapy.
Anti-slip products
Due to aching joints and deteriorating ranges of motion, senior citizens often face difficulties when climbing stairs. Fortunately, anti-slip products can make seniors’ lives a bit easier and alleviate anxieties about life-threatening spills. These safety-first devices can be applied on the flooring of staircases to prevent slipping. Examples are rubber floor treads for both outdoor and indoor and anti-slip rolls for non-carpeted areas.
Parting shot
Seniors still have a lot of life left to live, and these innovative technologies can help them get there. Now it’s time to get moving again, and remember that there’s no shame in taking baby steps.
Interesting related article: “What is a Medical Device?“