If one or both of your parents have recently experienced health problems that have made moving around more challenging than it used to be or if the effects of aging are responsible for that challenge, they probably already have mobility aids in place around their home and car. However, it's important to note that it's often possible to make life easier for disabled and mobility-impaired persons by using specific accessories of those aids. Therefore, it's a good idea to be aware of the following information about accessorizing mobility aids when you're concerned that parent's health or independence could be at risk in their home.

Making The Use Of A Cane Safer...On Carpet Or Ice

If your parent has already found a cane that is of the appropriate weight, size, and appearance, it is easy to assume that your job with a cane is done. However, the truth is that if your parents have thick carpet or if the flooring in their home changes from carpeting to tile or hardwood, it is easy for a cane to become unbalanced and allow the user to fall. That risk is also a concern if they live in an area that is prone to ice or snow, even if someone else is responsible for clearing the driveway and pathways of the winter precipitation.  

Therefore, you're likely to find that exchanging the tip of the cane currently in use for a rubber one with a spike is quite helpful. You will want to find one that is retractable, so that it does not mark floors that don't need the extra support or grip of the improved tip. 

Safely Transporting The Occasionally Used Cane On The Walker

Another aspect to consider when planning for the mobility needs of your parent is the use of a walker and a cane. For instance, many older persons with mobility challenges don't need the use of the more supportive walker all the time. One example of that can be seen when you realize that your mom or dad might do well going from the living room to the kitchen with a cane, but going a greater distance to the garage or laundry room is more difficult. In that instance, the walker is a better choice and choosing just one to use around the home could be dangerous.   

That quandary can be solved by choosing a portable attachment for the walker to hold a cane. Its presence allows the user to navigate through the home and always have immediate access to both adaptive devices throughout the day. Your parent has the option of choosing which item they want to use and because the attachment connects to the walker without throwing off the weight of the unit, mom or dad is likely to be safer and more independent at home.       

In conclusion, senior citizens are often at a significant risk of injury or exacerbating existing mobility concerns, even in their own home. As a result, when you need to know that your parents have the tools and accessories they need to get the most benefit from the mobility aids they already use, you should consider the options discussed above. For more information, check out sites like http://www.twincitystairlifts.com about mobility aids.