Mobility is crucial for maintaining independence, especially for the elderly and disabled. Without the right help in place, individuals can become increasingly isolated from their communities and experience poor quality of life. Thankfully there are several important measures already in place to improve mobility, as well as some exciting technological developments on the horizon:
Wheelchairs
Wheelchairs can significantly improve an individual’s quality of life, allowing them greater freedom of movement without being dependent on the assistance of others. Electric powered wheelchairs are even better; granting a new lease of life to those without the strength to operate a manual wheelchair. The electric powered wheelchair is also suitable for long distance travel, and there are many affordable options available to choose from.
Stair Lifts
Using stairs can be a challenge since it requires a high degree of strength and mobility. They can even pose a risk for less able-bodied individuals. One of the ways to make life easier is to install a stairlift. This improves mobility, reduces the likelihood of dangerous falls, and grants valuable independence at the same time.
Walking Sticks
Walking sticks are a simple but very effective way to increase freedom of movement and independence: They take the weight off the lower body and place pressure on the hands. A variety of designs are available, each with their own particular features tailored to different needs. There are even foldable options for extra style and portability!
Crutches
Crutches are another very simple but important tool, capable of radically increasing levels of mobility. Designed to transfer weight from the legs to the upper part of the body, they can be used in pairs or singularly. Crutches also help to maintain an upright posture, which is important for a variety of medical conditions. Those with permanent disabilities are often advised to use ‘Lofstrand’ crutches, which involves putting the arm inside a metal cuff and holding the hand grip. Those with short-term injuries, on the other hand, often use Axillary crutches, which are placed below the armpits.
The Future: Bionic Body Parts
Bionic body parts have the potential to revolutionize mobility by allowing you to move about by means of artificial organs and limbs. The invention of 3D printing technology has accelerated recent progress, speeding up the construction of artificial organs. These advancements have not only helped patients maintain their mobility, but also saved lives.
The Center for Bionic Medicine and the Feinberg School of Medicine are currently pioneering the development of bionic limbs that can be manipulated through a neural interface. The FDA (Food and Drug Association), furthermore, has even approved battery-powered heart implantation in humans – fantastic news for the many patients who face long waiting times for a heart donor.
The future looks promising: by 2035, for example, it’s believed we will have upgraded our senses with implants capable of detecting radio waves and X-rays.
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