Mobility Aids

Risk

Some individuals may benefit from using a mobility aid. However, if the aid is not the correct height, or it is inappropriate for the individual, it may increase their risk of falling.
If the person is unable to correctly use their mobility aid, this may also increase their risk of falling.
If the person uses equipment that is not intended for use as a mobility aid, this can also pose a potential risk of falling.

Mobility aids must be prescribed by a qualified Health Professional (Physiotherapist or Occupational Therapist).
The mobility aid should be regularly checked to ensure that it is in good working condition. Any fault or damage should be reported immediately to the prescriber.
Make sure that the person keeps their prescribed mobility aid close by.
If appropriate, the person can engage in initiatives such as ‘Fix up your Frame’. Designs can be added to the mobility aid. However, please click the ‘Fix up your Frame’ link here for the things to consider to ensure the person is still able to use their frame safely.
Ensure individuals only use equipment that is intended for use as a mobility aid to aid their mobility!
Ensure wheelchairs are in working order and always refer to Hertfordshire Wheelchair Services AJM Healthcare for an assessment for any wheelchair other than a standard wheelchair.
You can seek professional advice from Scooters Overview for a mobility scooter assessment.

It is important that the individual’s capacity to make decisions around this specific area is considered and documented.
Individuals who have capacity regarding these decisions can make choices about whether they use their walking aid. You need to document their ability to make this decision, as well as what they chose to do every time is it relevant.
You may need to inform them of the benefits and risks, if they are not aware, or you may need to remind them if they have difficulty remembering things.
If the individual is assessed as not having capacity regarding these decisions, this needs to be documented appropriately and interventions need to be implemented and documented as part of a Best Interests Decision, using appropriate paperwork.