In the current demographic panorama, in Italy over 7 million people are aged 75 and over, equal to 11,7% of the total. And of these over 75s, 42% are multi-chronic, that is, they suffer from three or more chronic pathologies. The growing number of people of advanced age, with difficulties or disabilities, underlines the crucial importance of facilitating the mobilization of this vulnerable population. Fortunately, there are aids that can help improve autonomy, safety and standard of living. This term indicates devices, tools or equipment that facilitate the execution of a specific function or task. Depending on the need they take different forms.
With 22% of elderly people reporting serious limitations in daily activities due to health problems, and with this percentage increasing to 27,7% among those aged over eighty, there is a clear need for tools that improve autonomy and accessibility .
The impact on quality of life
When you face challenges and difficulties, or even lose your independence, your quality of life can be significantly impacted. Losing independence and facing physical limitations can lead to feelings of frustration, isolation and sadness.
Depression becomes a real risk in this context, as those in old age may find themselves dealing with a series of emotional, social and physical changes. The feeling of dependence on others and the inability to carry out common tasks can undermine self-confidence and generate a perception of helplessness.
Mobilization aids: typologies
Devices that play a crucial role in facilitating and improving the movement of people with difficulties are different. Among the aids of considerable importance, we find electric wheelchairs, anti-decubitus mattresses, canes, walkers, outdoor stairlift and interiors.
They take various forms based on specifications, contributing significantly to accessibility and autonomy.
Walking aids
Designed to support or replace leg functions, they include electric wheelchairs, walkers, canes and prosthetics, available in various configurations to suit individual needs.
The diversity of options, ranging from manual to electric, fixed or foldable devices, allows targeted customization for each one.
Transfer Aids
They play a crucial role in lifting, moving or positioning a person, i.e. in the context of transfers from one surface to another.
Electric lifts, bed rails, transfer belts and turntables are just some of the options available. They can be manual or electric, fixed or mobile, with or without remote control.
Positioning aids
To maintain an adequate posture and prevent complications related to poor mobility, positioning aids are essential: ergonomic pillows, anti-decubitus mattresses, raised seats and lumbar supports are examples of tools designed to offer comfort and prevent deformities.
The range of options, which can vary from soft to rigid, adjustable or fixed devices, ensures a solution tailored to each individual's specific needs.
The choice requires a professional evaluation by doctors, physiotherapists or orthopedists, who can recommend the most suitable solution for the condition and prognosis of the person involved.