Mobility is one of the most prized faculties of every age group, but particularly to those of advancing years, and maintaining it in all its forms has become big business.

Causes of immobility can be many and varied but the range of equipment on the market today is amazing. A problem that may have caused a life-changing situation years ago may now be solved by an appliance or equipment from the vast array on offer.

From a walking stick to a motor vehicle, the Mobility scheme in the UK has improved beyond recognition in recent years, although there are still some awful anomalies, usually for those who need help most.

I had many years of personal experience of mobility problems with my father. After losing a leg in the war he lived as normal a life as was possible, but some of the bureaucratic bungling surrounding disabled people in the 40s and 50s was incredible.

Hopefully much of that has been overcome by now.

Loss of mobility can be just as much of a mental shock as a physical one, so good advice for anyone suffering such a situation is to speak to someone who has experienced it for some time. This can alleviate some of the potential trauma and help the gradual change in lifestyle which may have been caused by accident, illness or simply advancing years.

The high streets have many mobility shops, some better than others, and a good one should be able to advise you on what aids are available to you, how to get the best out of them and the costs involved in purchase and maintenance.

Early loss of mobility may require the use of a walking aid. Once of a day this would probably have been a conventional walking stick cut to length. Today there is a whole rang of appliances, each designed for a particular kind of mobility loss.

A simple fold up walking stick can be a boon to those who only feel the need of occasional support and reassurance. Taking things a step further, if you need a permanent walking stick, make sure you are shown which one is best for you. The wooden one with the brass handle and metal ferrule may look attractive but is probably totally impractical for most needs. A stick rubber is usually a necessity for safety and if you are particularly infirm you might be advised to go for a three-legged end to a stick which gives additional peace of mind.

Wheelchairs are a subject by themselves. If you need one I would strongly recommend that you take the advice of a physiotherapist, doctor or good mobility supplier before making a decision. Will you always have someone to push your chair, remember the strain of propelling yourself is considerable and may exacerbate your problems. There are many electrically propelled ones on the market so choose wisely.

I also have to sound a huge note of caution here against some telephone canvassing operators who have conned disabled people. If a company in this market is reputable it is highly unlikely that they need to telephone canvas. Beware those offering a no obligation home visit. The con is that if they sell you faulty or sub-standard goods their defence will quite simply be that you invited them into your home freely, and that stands up in law!

You will all have seen the automated shopping trolleys available at many supermarkets and the motorised scooter type vehicles. Correctly supplied these are a boon to the disabled, and many have been cleverly designed to fold easily into vehicles. Automatic vehicle lifts often come with them and there is now even a person lift for helping someone into a car seat. The clever design usually has three pivotal points to get you into the car and can often be operated by the disabled person themself without third party assistance.

Bathing is often a problem for disabled people but there are numerous aids available to assist. From shower stools to walk in baths, you should be able to find something that makes life easier. Again, take advice on what is best for you, and don’t forget that you may be eligible for grants to help with purchase and installation.

The greatest gift to a disabled person is that of being able to get around as much as possible. If you have sufficient capability and the right credentials you may well be eligible for help with a motor vehicle through the Motability scheme.

If you receive the Higher Rate Mobility Component of the Disability Living Allowance or the War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement, getting a new car is easier and more affordable than ever. In its most simplistic form, you exchange your mobility allowance for a car.

If you think you may qualify for this scheme do look into it. I know for a fact that it has been a lifeline to many who thought their travelling days were over. It can give a freedom and joy like no other, and is an invaluable therapy for those who cannot walk or get around with the same ease as the rest of us.

There is a lot out there to keep you moving, and this feature is by no means exhaustive. Go for what help you can get and always seek the best advice to keep you on the move.

Graham Smith for Third Age.