Mobility Aids for Older Adults

Updated August 7, 2025 | Lisbeth Cano

Table of Contents

Maintaining the ability to move freely and easily is vital for an older adult's independence.

As loved ones age, changes in gait, balance, and physical strength can increase the risk of falls and decrease their quality of life.

Mobility aids play an important role in enhancing safety and maintaining independence.

Understanding Mobility Changes in Aging

Aging brings natural physical and neurological changes that can affect mobility.

Bone density may decrease, muscles can weaken, and senses like vision and balance can decline.

Common medical conditions such as arthritis, stroke, Parkinson's disease, and other neurological disorders can significantly impair movement.

These changes can severely impact an older adult's ability to perform daily activities, leading to reduced physical activity and social isolation.

Choosing the Right Mobility Aid for Your Needs

Selecting the appropriate device starts with a professional assessment to match functional needs and ensure proper fit and use.

“You don’t want to risk having a fall and being unable to get help.” — Dr. Warren Wong

A badly fitted or incorrectly used aid can increase the risk of falls rather than reduce it. 1

Explore: Best Mobility Aids for Aging Parents

Types of Mobility Aids for Older Adults

Canes

Canes offer light support and assist with balance.

  • Single-tip canes are for minor balance issues
  • Quad canes provide a wider base for more stability
  • Ergonomic grips help reduce hand strain

Ensure the cane's height is correct — the handle should reach the wrist when the arm hangs naturally.

See also: Canes vs Walkers: Which Is Best?

Walkers and Rollators

Walkers provide more support than canes.

  • Standard walkers require the user to lift the frame with each step
  • Two-wheel walkers roll at the front for smoother motion
  • Rollators feature three or four wheels, hand brakes, and a seat for resting

These are ideal for those with balance issues but who can still walk moderate distances.

Wheelchairs and Mobility Scooters

For individuals with significant mobility limitations, wheelchairs and scooters offer greater independence.

  • Manual wheelchairs are user- or caregiver-propelled
  • Power wheelchairs and mobility scooters are battery-powered and ideal for long distances or those with limited upper body strength
Mobility Device Manual Power
Wheelchair ✅ ✅
Scooter ❌ ✅
Requires Upper Strength ✅ ❌

Explore: Wheelchairs vs. Mobility Scooters

Medicare Part B covers medically necessary walkers, wheelchairs, and power-operated vehicles, typically with 20% coinsurance after the deductible. 2

See the Medicare Coverage Guide

Specialized Mobility Aids

Various specialized aids assist with unique needs.

  • Forearm walkers and reverse walkers support different postural needs
  • Stairlifts provide access between floors without stairs
  • Grab Bars and Ramps assist with stability in bathrooms and hallways
  • Adaptive clothing can help those with reduced movement maintain independence in dressing

Explore:

Assistive Technology to Support Mobility

Assistive technology extends beyond basic aids.

  • Grab bars
  • Raised toilet seats
  • Shower chairs
  • Nonslip mats
  • Motion-sensor lighting

“Simple modifications like grab bars, nonslip mats, and improved lighting can significantly reduce falls risk at home.” — National Institute on Aging 3

Explore:

Many states offer assistive technology programs that include:

  • Device demonstrations
  • Short-term equipment loans
  • Financial assistance

These can help older adults acquire and experiment with the right tools. 4

Funding and Coverage Options

Understanding cost and coverage is essential when selecting a mobility aid.

  • Medicare Part B covers approved durable medical equipment (DME) if prescribed
  • Medicaid may offer additional help through state-based programs
  • Private health insurance coverage varies — always check your plan
  • Non-profits and community organizations may offer lending libraries or financial support

See: Medicare Coverage Guide 2

Importance of Exercise for Maintaining Mobility

Exercise is critical in preventing further loss of mobility — even for those already using aids.

“A structured physical activity program reduced major mobility disability risk by 18% in sedentary older adults aged 70 to 89.” — National Institute on Aging 5

Common mobility-maintaining activities include:

  • Gentle walking
  • Chair-based exercises
  • Resistance band training
  • Tai chi or yoga

“More than one in four people age 65 or older fall each year... many falls can be prevented through exercise, home modifications, and use of assistive devices.” — National Institute on Aging 6

For wheelchair users, seated exercise routines can help maintain strength and endurance. 7

Caring for Older Adults with Mobility Challenges

Caregivers play an important role in helping loved ones maintain independence and dignity.

Key steps to support safely:

  • Discuss their preferences and needs sensitively
  • Ensure proper use of assistive devices
  • Clear clutter and improve lighting in high-traffic areas
  • Stay alert to symptoms of declining mobility

Consider additional supports like:

Innovation continues to transform elder mobility care.

Emerging technologies are shaping the future:

  • Automated vehicles might improve transportation options for non-drivers
  • Smart wearables can track movement and help detect issues
  • 3D printing enables custom orthotics and assistive devices

“Older adults are already benefiting from new mobility options like automated vehicles. Accessibility is key in shaping these tools.” — AARP Public Policy Institute 8

Research and pilot programs show promise for more personalized and accessible mobility solutions.

Maintaining Independence Through Mobility

“Mobility — the ability to move or walk freely and easily — is critical for functioning well and living independently.” — National Institute on Aging 9

The right mobility aid, proper support, and a safe home environment go a long way toward maintaining independence.

Combine physical activity with home adjustments and medical consultation to create a complete plan for your aging loved one.

  1. AARP. "Choosing and Using Walkers and Canes." ↩

  2. Medicare.gov. "Walkers." ↩ ↩

  3. National Institute on Aging. "Preventing Falls at Home – Room by Room." ↩

  4. Administration for Community Living. "Assistive Technology: Issue Brief." ↩

  5. National Institute on Aging. "Structured Physical Activity Program Can Help Maintain Mobility in Vulnerable Older People." ↩

  6. National Institute on Aging. "Falls and Fractures in Older Adults: Causes and Prevention." ↩

  7. Cleveland Clinic. "Why Senior Mobility Is So Important Right Now." ↩

  8. AARP Public Policy Institute. "Older Adults, New Mobility, and Automated Vehicles." ↩

  9. National Institute on Aging. "Maintaining Mobility and Preventing Disability Are Key to Living Independently as We Age." ↩

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Lisbeth Cano Clinical Researcher and Elder Advocate

Meet the author: Lisbeth Cano earned her medical degree from Universidad de Iberoamérica in Costa Rica and worked as a doctor before becoming a clinical researcher. She now focuses on senior care, writing evidence-based guides for SeniorCanvas.com to help families make safer, smarter decisions for aging parents.