The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Disability Equipment for Seniors

Evaluate Mobility Requirements:

• • Are they struggling with balance? Would a walker, rollator, or wheelchair be more appropriate?
  • Do they need support for short distances or longer outings?

Consider Daily Living Activities:

• • Identify challenges with everyday tasks like dressing, cooking, and personal hygiene. Look into dressing aids, kitchen aids, and independent living aids to simplify these tasks.

Safety Needs:

• • Is their home environment secure? Are modifications like grab rails, ramps, or bathroom aids necessary to prevent falls?

Walkers and Rollators: These are ideal for individuals who need help with balance but can still walk independently. They offer support during everyday tasks, like moving around the house or walking short distances. Some even come with built-in seats for resting.

Wheelchairs: Wheelchairs are suitable for seniors with more significant mobility challenges. Whether self-propelled or transit, wheelchairs help them move comfortably indoors and outdoors. Consider lightweight models or power chairs for those with limited arm strength.

Scooters: For seniors who need to travel longer distances but are not ready for a wheelchair, mobility scooters are an excellent option. They provide independence for outdoor activities like shopping or social visits.

Dressing Aids: These include tools like button hooks, zipper pulls, and long-handled shoe horns that help seniors dress independently, reducing frustration and dependence on caregivers.

Kitchen Aids: Simple yet effective kitchen aids, such as jar openers, adaptive utensils, and non-slip mats, make cooking and eating safer and easier. These tools help seniors maintain their autonomy in food preparation and dining.

Independent Living Aids: These include a broad range of products like grabbers, reachers, and pill organizers that make daily living more manageable. By simplifying everyday tasks, these aids help seniors maintain a higher level of independence.

Bathroom Aids: Installing grab rails, shower chairs, and non-slip mats can significantly reduce the risk of accidents in the bathroom. These simple modifications allow seniors to manage personal hygiene more safely.

Toilet Aids: Raised toilet seats and over-toilet aids provide additional support for those with mobility or balance issues, making it easier for seniors to use the bathroom independently.

Home Modifications: Beyond the bathroom, consider ramps for easy access to the home, adjustable beds, and recliner chairs that aid in getting in and out of seating positions. These modifications promote safer and more comfortable living arrangements.

NDIS Funding: The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides support for eligible Australians with disabilities, including seniors. At Able Me, we guide you through the process of securing funding, ensuring that you can access the products your loved ones need.

Home Care Packages (HCP): HCPs offer government-funded support for seniors living at home. These packages can cover the cost of mobility aids, home modifications, and other independent living products.

Private Insurance: Many private health insurance plans cover part of the cost of disability equipment. It’s essential to review your policy or speak with an insurance advisor to understand what is covered.

Prioritize Comfort and Usability: The equipment should be comfortable and easy to use. Seniors are more likely to use aids that fit seamlessly into their daily routine.

Involve the User: Where possible, involve your loved one in the selection process. Their feedback on comfort, style, and functionality is invaluable in choosing products they will use consistently.

Try Before You Buy: If possible, test the equipment before purchasing. At Able Me’s Bentleigh showroom, we offer product trials to help you make the right decision.