Mobility Aids for Older People: How to Choose the Right One

The right mobility aid can make a big difference to confidence and independence, whether that’s getting to the shops, walking in the park or simply moving safely around the house. But with so many options, it can be hard to know where to start.

This guide explains the main types of mobility aids for older people, who each one suits and how to choose, with tips from our team at NovitaTech in Adelaide.

Signs it might be time for a mobility aid

• You hold on to furniture or walls when walking around the house
• You’ve had a fall or a near miss
• You avoid going out because walking is tiring or painful
• You feel unsteady on uneven ground or in crowds
• Getting up from a chair is becoming difficult

A mobility aid isn’t about giving up independence. It’s about keeping it.

Types of mobility aids

Walking sticks and canes

Best for people who need a little extra balance or support on one side. They’re light and easy to carry. See our walking aids.

Walking frames

Frames without wheels, or with two front wheels, give more stability than a stick and suit people who need to take weight through their arms, especially indoors.

Rollators

A rollator is a walker with three or four wheels, hand brakes and usually a seat. It’s ideal if you want support while walking longer distances and somewhere to rest along the way. Browse our walkers and rollators.

Wheelchairs

Manual wheelchairs can be pushed by the user or a carer, and are useful for longer outings even if you can walk short distances. Powered wheelchairs suit people who can’t self-propel.

Mobility scooters

Scooters are great for getting to the shops and around the neighbourhood if you can walk short distances but struggle with longer ones. Read our guide to mobility scooters.

3-in-1 walker wheelchairs

Devices like the Roamate 3-in-1 electric walker wheelchair combine a powered rollator and a powered wheelchair, so you can walk when you feel up to it and ride when you’re tired. Learn more in our Roamate guide.

Lift chairs

Not all mobility aids help you walk. A lift chair gently raises you to standing, making it easier and safer to get up from your seat.

Quick comparison

Tips for choosing the right mobility aid

1. Get advice. A physiotherapist or occupational therapist can recommend the right type and make sure it’s set to the right height.
2. Think about where you’ll use it. Inside the house, at the shops, on grass or in the car.
3. Check the weight and fold. If it needs to go in a car boot, make sure you or your carer can lift it.
4. Try before you buy. Comfort and fit matter. Try it at our showroom or book a free trial at home.
5. Plan for servicing. Brakes, wheels and batteries need checking. Our repairs and maintenance team can help.

Funding mobility aids

Mobility aids may be funded through Support at Home, CHSP, the NDIS or other schemes, or bought privately. Read our Support at Home assistive technology guide, or see all our aged care equipment and services in Adelaide.

Need something short-term, like after a hospital stay? Equipment hire is also available.

Frequently asked questions

What’s the difference between a walker and a rollator?

A walker usually has no wheels or two front wheels and is lifted or slid as you walk. A rollator has three or four wheels, hand brakes and usually a seat.

Can I hire a mobility aid instead of buying one?

Yes. Hire is a good option for short-term needs or to try before you buy.

Do I need a prescription?

Not to buy privately. Some funding schemes need a recommendation from a health professional, especially for higher-cost items.

Where can I try mobility aids in Adelaide?

At the NovitaTech Store, 31 Manton Street, Hindmarsh, or with a free trial at home or in the community across South Australia.

This article is general information only. Speak to a health professional about your individual needs.