Who doesn’t want to enjoy their golden years with freedom and independence? After all, retirement is supposed to be a time to relax and enjoy the fruits of your labor. But as we age, muscle weakness, balance issues, and mobility challenges get in our way, transforming simple tasks into arduous endeavors.
Fortunately, there are many innovative mobility devices that have been designed to tackle these issues head-on, empowering seniors to maintain their autonomy and continue living life to the fullest. But with all the different options available, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the best mobility aids for seniors available on the market today.
Best Mobility Devices for Seniors
Certified Medical sells some top-of-the-line mobility devices for seniors. Below are some of our most popular mobility aids.
Wheelchairs
For many seniors, a wheelchair can be a lifesaver. They can be used to get around indoors or outdoors, and they’re especially helpful for individuals who have trouble walking long distances due to arthritis, joint pain, or other physical ailments. There are two common types of wheelchairs:
Manual Wheelchairs
Manual wheelchairs are the epitome of simplicity and functionality. These chairs consist of a sturdy frame, comfortable seating, and large wheels. The user must have the sufficient upper body strength to propel the chair and maneuver it through doors and narrow hallways. Since most manual chairs are lightweight and have a small footprint, they are ideal for indoor use and can be folded up to transport in a car or taken with you on public transportation.
Power Wheelchair
Also known as electric or motorized wheelchairs, power chairs are ideal for people with mobility issues that result in less upper body strength. Unlike manual wheelchairs, which require the user to propel themselves, power wheelchairs are controlled using a simple interface, such as a joystick or touch-sensitive panel. These features allow the user to control the speed and direction of their chair at will.
Power chairs come with a host of features that make them more comfortable and convenient than manual wheelchairs, including adjustable seats, backrests, leg rests, and footrests. They also come equipped with heavy-duty wheels that allow the user to traverse uneven terrain and climb curbs — and efficient brakes, which help prevent dangerous runaway situations that could occur if the user loses control of their wheelchair.
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Mobility Scooters
Mobility scooters may be an ideal choice for seniors who are able to walk short distances but need assistance when traveling longer distances. Powered by rechargeable batteries, these scooters feature a steering column that allows the user to steer and control their speed. They come equipped with adjustable and comfortable seating, user-friendly controls such as thumb-operated levers or twist-grip throttles, front, and rear lights for improved visibility, suspension systems for a smoother ride, and a stable platform for enhanced safety.
Mobility scooters can be used both indoors and outdoors and are often designed to handle a range of terrains, from smooth surfaces to uneven pavement. So whether you plan on visiting your friends, going on a shopping spree, or just getting out of the house, these mobility aids are a great way to get around with ease!
Scooter and Wheelchair Lifts
If you plan on taking your mobility device on the road with you, a wheelchair or scooter lift can make transportation much easier and more convenient. A scooter lift is a motorized platform that can be attached to the back of a car, truck, van, or SUV, allowing you to safely and easily transport your mobility device from one location to another.
There are several types of wheelchair lifts available, including hitch-mounted lifts, inside lifts, and outside lifts. Hitch-mounted lifts are attached to the hitch receiver on the back of your vehicle, while inside lifts are installed inside the vehicle’s cargo area and stow a mobility device in the vehicle using a crane action. Outside lifts, on the other hand, are mounted on the exterior of the vehicle and are ideal for those who want to save space inside their vehicles.
When choosing a vehicle lift, it is essential to consider the type of mobility aid that needs to be transported, the weight capacity of the lift, and the type of vehicle in which the lift will be installed. If you are unsure about which type of lift to purchase, consult the mobility specialists at Certified Medical. We will happily assess your needs and help you make an informed decision.
Wheelchair Ramps
For seniors, climbing the stairs or navigating steep inclines can be a real challenge. A wheelchair ramp is a simple and effective solution to this problem. Wheelchair ramps feature sloped surfaces that provide a smooth and gradual incline for individuals using wheelchairs or other mobility devices to access buildings, doorways, or steps. There are two main types of wheelchair ramps: permanent and portable. Permanent wheelchair ramps are installed into a building’s structure, while portable ones can be disassembled and moved around as needed, and our team can assist you in determining which is right for your unique needs.
Lift Chairs
Over time, everyday tasks like standing up from a chair can become increasingly challenging. This is where lift chairs come in. These chairs feature a powerful lifting mechanism that gently raises the entire chair, enabling the user to transition from a seated to a standing position and vice versa.
In addition to their lifting capabilities, lift chairs also function as recliners, offering adjustable backrests and footrests to accommodate various positions for relaxation, reading, or watching TV. Some lift chairs offer built-in heating and massage features, which can help soothe aching muscles and release tension in the body — especially beneficial for seniors who suffer from chronic pain or circulation issues. You can learn more about our top three lift chairs in our blog.
Stay Mobile With Certified Medical
If you want to spend your golden years without relying on loved ones or caregivers to assist you in remaining mobile, Certified Medical has your back. We only carry top-notch mobility aids from market-leading brands like Golden Technologies and Pride Mobility, as well as a wide range of other medical equipment. From the installation of vehicle lifts (including hitches) to finding the right scooter for your needs, our team is here for you every step of the way. Contact us today at (352) 237-4146 or visit two of our stores in Florida to learn more about mobility products for seniors and other services.
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