Page 26 - Senior Times South Central Michigan December 2021 - 28-12

Page 26
Senior Times - December 2021
MOBILITY DEVICES
50 Sanderson Lane Coldwater, MI 49036
517.279.9587 Maple-Lawn.org
Traditional manual wheelchairs have small front wheels and large back wheels that the user can grip to move themselves forward and backward. Folding wheel- chairs can be taken with you on the go. Wheelchairs come in a variety of special- ty styles.
• Bariatric wheelchair – has an extra stur-
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EXPLORING OPTIONS FOR YOUR LOVED ONE
When a loved one begins to have trouble with mobility, everyday activ- ities and simple outings can suddenly become difficult. Fortunately, there are many mobility devices available to help people remain more independent. There are many factors that need to be consid- ered when selecting a suitable mobility device. Make sure your loved one seeks the advice from a healthcare professional and receives instruction on proper use.
Wheelchairs and Transport Chairs – Wheelchairs are mobility aids that feature a frame mounted on wheels. There are a number of types available:
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Walkers and Rollators – A standard walker has a folding metal frame with four feet. To use a traditional walker, your loved one will need to lift the mobility aid, move it forward and then step toward it. Walkers can be used in
a wide range of settings. You can even purchase specialty pool walker mobility aids for seniors who would like to move independently in swimming pools.
• Standing wheelchair – allows users to rise from a seated to a standing position as needed.
dy frame and a higher weight capacity. • Reclining wheelchair – has an adjust- able back for a more relaxed position.
• Shower wheelchair – is a more compact design. It is made of rust-proof and waterproof materials. Some also come with a removable commode.
A rollator walker is a walker with wheels. Most are 4-wheel walker models, but there are some 3-wheel walkers avail- able. With these rolling walkers, users simply push the frame along as they walk. There is no need to lift a wheeled walker. As a result, rollators may be a better type of walkers for seniors who have limited arm strength.
Transport or transporter chairs have four small wheels. A transporter wheel- chair is designed to be pushed by a care- giver rather than the user. Many can fold and are portable for traveling.
Benefits – Rollators and walkers for elderly individuals can make it easier to get around by providing stability and bal- ance support. Their lightweight, folding design make it easy to travel with them. Most are height adjustable, so individuals of a wide range of heights can use them.
Electric wheelchairs have a built-in motor the user usually controls with
their hands. Users tap a button or use a joystick type control to move. Although these wheelchairs often fold, some mod- els may be bulkier and heavier than man- ual models. They also tend to be more expensive than manual wheelchairs, mak- ing them less than ideal for individuals who are looking for lightweight wheel- chairs for occasional use. Access vans with a wheelchair lift can make it easier to travel with a power wheelchair.
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Considerations – One of the biggest drawbacks is that they require use of
the hands. Some individuals may not be able to grip a walker for long periods of time or worry about how they will carry items while using a walker or rollator. Some models come with accessories for personal belongings. You can also pur- chase walker trays, walker bag pouches and walker basket accessories to add onto walkers, including a cup holder.
Benefits – With many styles available, there are options to fit many needs and budgets. Wheelchair accessories make it easy for users to carry items while trav- eling. Manual wheelchairs require some physical activity.
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Because walkers and rollators still involve walking, people who become fatigued easily may struggle to use them during long outings. Rolling walkers with seats can help address this challenge when the user needs a break from walk- ing or while standing in line.
Another challenge for wheelchairs
is that they cannot travel up and down stairs. Users may need wheelchair ramps or wheelchair lifts to enter some build- ings or move safely through their homes. A portable wheelchair ramp can be pur- chased for navigating small flights of stairs, such as steps leading up to a front
Considerations – Manual and power wheelchairs are less than ideal for people who have difficulty sitting comfortably for long periods of time. A wheelchair cushion or pad can help individuals find a more comfortable position.
For referrals call us at 269.365.6366 879 E Michigan Ave, Marshall, MI 49068 www.MedilodgeofMarshall.com
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Support Groups
Group
Parkinson’s Caregivers Healthy Eating
Day/Time
2nd Thurs. 4:30–6:00pm
3rd Thurs. 1:00–2:30pm
2nd Thurs. 10:30–11:30am
Locations
North Avenue Church of God, 1079 North Avenue, BC
Senior Health Partners Office BC Family YMCA, 28 Penn St., BC
Forks Senior Center, 101 N Albion St, Albion
Contact
Anne Clark 269-986-3135
Anne Clark 269-986-3135
Kim Martinez 269-986-2856
The Senior Fitness and Fun program is funded by the Calhoun County Senior Millage.