Useful Mobility Aids for Parkinson’s Disease

1. Useful Mobility Aids for Parkinson’s Disease If you, or someone in your care, has Parkinson’s Disease, then you must be well aware of the various challenges that come with it. Not a lot of people know about the disease and the impact it can have on your life. That is why the world is celebrating Parkinson’s Awareness Week from the 5th to 11th of April, culminating in the World Parkinson’s Day. What is Parkinson’s Disease? Parkinson’s is a neurological disease that worsens with time. Basically, the condition leads to underdevelopment of dopamine - a neurotransmitter - in the brain, which is the chemical responsible for relaying messages between the cells in our brain. Since dopamine mainly regulates motor functions, among other functions, Parkinson’s leads to motor symptoms such as tremors, shaking, slowness in movement, loss of balance, and stiffness. These symptoms can become more severe as the disease progresses. Non-motor functions may also become impaired if you have Parkinson’s. If you or your loved one has Parkinson’s disease, you are not alone. According to reported figures, there are over 80,000 people in Australia living with Parkinson’s disease at this time, with an average age of 65 years old. Younger people can also develop Parkinson’s, called Young Onset Parkinson’s. In fact, 20% of all Parkinson’s patients are at a working age. Living with Parkinson’s can become very challenging if you don’t have a full- time caretaker. However, and thankfully, there are many assistive devices

2. available in the market that can help you live with Parkinson’s in a much easier manner. Choosing The Right Mobility Equipment To Help You Get Around It is important to know about the mobility aids you need, to improve your life with Parkinson’s. As the equipment is specialised, it does not come cheap, and hence buying the wrong type will cost you a lot of money without helping you much. The following aids for daily living with Parkinson’s are essential and will most likely help you gain more control over your movement. 1)Walking Cane - this device will help you achieve balance in your movement, reducing or eliminating the need for assistance when you stand or walk. The Comfort-Plus Quad Cane by Airgo has a 4-point base allowing for greater weight-bearing. However, some people with Parkinson’s prefer to walk without a cane as, according to them, it feels safer. 2)Walking Frames - a walking frame is sturdier than a cane and helps you maintain balance while standing/walking. There are three types of walking frames to suit different needs, including non-wheeled, collapsible or folding, and wheeled. a)Non-Wheeled Walking Frame Non-wheeled walking frames – also known as Zimmer Frames - are available with adjustable height and usually made of metal alloy that is lightweight enough to make it easier for you to operate them. For this specific mobility device, you will need low upper-body strength as you would have to pick them up and move them forward with every step. The Walking Frame by BetterLiving is a durable yet simple zimmer frame. This walking aid is ideal for the person who lacks the strength or confidence to stand unassisted. Thanks to this device, the patient with Parkinson’s will be able to rise from a seated position with ease. b)Collapsible or Folding Walking Frame

3. As the name suggests, a folding walking frame that has a simple folding mechanism so it can be easily stored at home or when you go away. The rest of the features of a folding walking frame are similar to a non-wheeled or wheeled version. The Folding Walking Frame with Pull Ball by Days is a popular walking aid that offers a helping hand when it comes to standing up and navigating around your house. It is extremely easy to use; with just one pull of the ball towards you, you set it up or stored it away. This is the most portable walking aid we have in this range. The frame is built from lightweight aluminum that offers increased stability to those with Parkinson’s disease. The height can be adjusted between 87cm-92cm. All of the legs have rubber tips and the handles are covered with a rubber grip as well to ensure a stable structure, minimizing the risk of any accidents. You can change the rubber tips into wheels and glides. c)Wheeled Walking Frame A wheeled walking frame can have two to four wheels attached at the bottom of the legs, allowing you to move the frame as you walk without lifting it up. This device encourages independence and greater control. This walking frame offers the stability of a Zimmer frame, with the control of a conventional rollator. If you would usually use the frame on smooth surfaces, then it is recommended that you pick out a frame with small wheels. For rough surfaces, larger-wheeled frames are more suitable. Our Walking Frame with Wheels and skis by BetterLiving offers great manoeuvrability thanks to the wheels in front and the skis – or glides- at the back. Conclusion Parkinson’s disease mostly impacts motor functions, making it increasingly difficult for you to walk. A walking frame is a very useful independent living

4. equipment, helping you regain your ability to walk without assistance. You should choose a walking frame that is most suitable for your needs, one that offers you a robust structure, great features, and enhanced stability, all at an affordable price. Visit: https://www.bettercaremarket.com.au/