Mobility and Independence

Durable medical equipment (DME) suppliers — how the system works

This article provides general information about the durable medical equipment system. Insurance coverage and specific requirements vary by plan and provider. Your parent's healthcare provider and their insurance company can provide specific information about what's covered and what process to follow. At some point, you'

Mobility and Independence

Transfer aids — helping them move from bed to chair to bathroom

This article provides general information about transfer aids. The selection and safe use of transfer equipment should be determined in consultation with your parent's healthcare provider or physical therapist. Improper use can result in injury to your parent or to the person assisting them. Your parent moves through

Mobility and Independence

Bathroom safety equipment — grab bars, shower chairs, and raised toilets

This article provides general information about bathroom safety equipment for older adults. Your parent's specific bathroom safety needs should be assessed by an occupational therapist or healthcare provider who can evaluate their mobility, balance, and bathroom environment. The bathroom is the danger zone. It's where hot

Mobility and Independence

Hospital beds at home — when they need one and how to get it

This article provides general information about hospital beds for home use. The decision to obtain a hospital bed should be made with your parent's doctor or other healthcare providers, who can assess whether a hospital bed is medically necessary and what features are appropriate for your parent'

Mobility and Independence

Lift chairs — the recliner that helps them stand

This article provides general information about lift chairs. Whether a lift chair would be beneficial for your parent should be determined in consultation with their doctor or physical therapist. This is particularly important if your parent has certain conditions, takes particular medications, or has specific mobility or safety concerns. There&

Mobility and Independence

Traveling with mobility limitations — vacations, family events, and holidays

This article offers guidance on travel for older adults with mobility limitations. Travel planning should account for your parent's specific health conditions, mobility aids, medications, and endurance. Consulting with their healthcare provider before major travel is advisable. Travel stops being automatic at some point. Once, your parent probably

Mobility and Independence

Public spaces and accessibility — knowing their rights

This article provides general information about accessibility rights in public spaces in the United States. Laws and enforcement mechanisms vary by location. Consult with a local disability rights organization or attorney for guidance on your parent's specific situation or jurisdiction. Your parent has a right to exist in

Mobility and Independence

Balance training — the most underrated fall prevention tool

This article provides general information about balance training for older adults. Your parent should consult with their doctor before beginning any balance training program, particularly if they've experienced falls, dizziness, or other balance-related concerns. Physical therapy evaluation may be appropriate to assess individual risk factors and develop a

Mobility and Independence

Mobility and weather — seasonal challenges and solutions

This article addresses seasonal mobility challenges for older adults. The specific risks and appropriate responses vary based on your parent's health status, medications, mobility abilities, and local climate. Discuss seasonal precautions with your parent's healthcare provider, who can provide personalized guidance. Your parent's body

Mobility and Independence

Physical therapy for mobility — what it can restore and what it can't

Disclaimer: Physical therapy should be prescribed by a physician and tailored by a licensed physical therapist. This article provides general information only. Your older adult's strength is declining. They're moving more slowly. The stairs seem harder. Someone suggests physical therapy, and it sounds like the answer.

Mobility and Independence

Exercise for elderly parents — safe movement that maintains independence

This article offers general guidance on exercise for older adults. Before starting any new exercise program, your parent should consult with their doctor, especially if they have existing health conditions, take multiple medications, or have been sedentary. Individual circumstances vary widely, and professional medical advice is essential. There's

Mobility and Independence

Adaptive vehicles and vehicle modifications — when they can still drive with help

Disclaimer: Vehicle modifications should only be installed and used under guidance from a certified driving rehabilitation specialist. This article provides general information only. Your older adult can no longer press the pedals because of arthritis or weakness. They cannot turn their neck enough to check mirrors. They cannot transfer into