Aging has always been a fact of life, and what often comes with aging is decreased mobility. In the past, people found themselves confined to their homes ? and at time even sent to nursing home ? due to their decreased range of mobility. And the aged aren?t the only ones who suffered from this; anyone with a chronic illness or debilitating injury can experience problems with temporary or permanent mobility problems. Luckily, something has changed, and that something is the medical equipment offered to those with problems getting around.
Medical Equipment For Smaller Issues
As irritating as buying medical supplies can be, if something can help increase your range of mobility by even a small amount, it?s worth getting. This is particularly true if it comes recommended by a doctor. Those who can still walk with assistance may be better off with less heavy-duty medical equipment, like crutches or canes. In fact, up to 6.5 million people use crutches, canes, or walkers to get around in their daily lives. Some of these tools can be difficult for young people to accept using following a serious accident or illness, especially if they?re used to getting around by themselves. But, if you don?t precisely need a wheelchair, this equipment can be a compromise using the extreme and not using anything at all. If you?re rehabilitating your body, this equipment keeps you mobile. Furthermore, if your injury is minor ? say, a broken or sprained ankle ? but you still need crutches, they can likely be found at your local medical supply store.
Wheelchairs: Are They Right For You?
It?s estimated that up to 2.2 million Americans use wheelchairs for everyday tasks and mobility. Though using a wheelchair doesn?t mean you?ve lost the ability to walk, it is typically for those with more serious conditions than people who could deal with crutches alone. Using a wheelchair doesn?t mean lagging behind everyone else. The power wheelchair is becoming increasingly popular among people who don?t want to waste time rolling themselves around ? people who need to move quickly. Nor do you have to worry about a wheelchair not suiting your specific needs. Dual-arm wheelchair lifts alone have a lift capacity of up to 800 pounds, meaning that nearly anyone can use them.
Mobility Scooters: For Those In The Gray Area
For those who need more than crutches or canes, but aren?t ready for a wheelchair, a mobility scoot may be a great option. There are two types available: front-wheel drive, or rear-wheel drive. Mid-range scooters can reach speeds of up to five to seven miles per hour. These scooters are a great way for people to retain their mobility despite issues like chronic pain or stroke. While at home, you can still walk and get around without it, whichever way you wish. But should you wish to, example, get your grocery shopping done at a brisker pace, this may be the right choice for you.
