Mobility aids and devices are tools designed to assist people with limited mobility, making it easier for them to move around and maintain independence.
Tips & Links
- The most common mobility devices are wheelchairs, walkers, canes, crutches, scooters, power chairs, and stair climbers. These aids can help people with various mobility issues, such as difficulty walking, balancing, or standing.
- Less common are orthotic devices such as braces and splints to help support and stabilize weak or injured joints or limbs. There are also adaptive devices which include items like reachers, dressing sticks, and sock aids, which help with daily activities like dressing.
- Seek out physical assessments for any changes in your safety, mobility, or risk of falls by your physician or physiotherapist.
- Consider having a home safety assessment if you have been recently hospitalized and discharged home, are experiencing changes in your health, or are noticing changes in your strength and ability to do daily activities.
- Learn about having a home safety assessment as outlined by the government of BC.
- Explore Ability 411 for recommendations about mobility aids/devices, how to source them, and supports for financial assistance across Canada.
- Look into the Red Cross equipment loan program for mobility aids. Also check out your local hospital for long or short-term loaning programs.
- In many cases, the health care professional who conducts your home care or home safety assessment can create a list of equipment and provide guidance on where to obtain it. Be sure to write down this information, as it might also include suggestions for home modifications.
- Complete and talk with your family and care partners about the activities Changes in My Personal Needs and Getting a Home Care or Safety Assessment in the section My Place to Call Home in your Mywell Health planner.
Tools – Handouts & Videos
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