How to Make Daily Tasks Easier for Those with Mobility Issues

When we witness a loved one losing independence due to mobility issues, it can sometimes hit harder than expected. But the good news is that with the right support, mobility furniture, and some gentle encouragement, daily life can become significantly more manageable for those we care about most. 

In this blog, we’ll be discussing some simple mobility-enhancing solutions that can make an enormous difference to your loved ones’ quality of life, comfort, and safety.

What Do We Mean by ‘Mobility Issues’?

We use the term ‘mobility issues’ to refer to challenges with movement, balance, or physical function that affect a person’s ability to move around safely and comfortably. These challenges can be age-related, caused by a disability from birth, or due to an illness or injury.

Common conditions that affect mobility include arthritis, fibromyalgia, osteoporosis, stroke recovery, chronic pain conditions, and general muscle weakness that happens as we age.

The Most Common Mobility Issues: Examples

Mobility issues vary from person to person, but some of the most common examples include:

Joint stiffness and pain: Stiffness often affects the knees, hips, and shoulders, making movements like standing, walking, or reaching feel uncomfortable or difficult. This is particularly common in arthritis sufferers.

Balance problems and dizziness: Low blood pressure or conditions like Ménière’s disease can make people feel unsteady when walking or turning, leading to a fear of falling that sometimes limits their daily activities more than the physical symptoms themselves.

Muscle weakness and fatigue: Weaknesses can gradually develop, affecting a person’s ability to lift, carry, or support body weight when standing or climbing stairs. This is often seen in conditions like fibromyalgia.

Reduced flexibility and range of motion: The reduced flexibility caused by limited mobility can make it challenging for those affected to perform daily tasks like dressing, bathing, or reaching for items in cupboards and wardrobes.

The chronic pain cycle: Certain conditions can create a cycle where movement becomes uncomfortable, leading to less activity, which then results in further stiffness and weakness over time.

Can People Get Financial Help for Mobility Issues?

Yes. Help with mobility includes government funding. For example, the government’s Disabled Facilities Grant can provide up to £30,000 towards home adaptations and equipment for those who qualify. 

What’s more, if your loved one receives certain benefits like Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance, they may be entitled to VAT relief on mobility aids and furniture. If you’ve not already done so, it may be worth speaking to an occupational therapist who can assess their needs and advise on available funding options.

Need to discuss alternative finance options for mobility furniture? Reach out to us using our finance form.

The Best Beds for Mobility Issues

While a standard stationary bed is fine for the average person without mobility issues, those who struggle with movement will require extra support, and that’s where adjustable beds come in. (Just don’t forget to invest in an adjustable mattress!)

Adjustable beds aren’t just important for helping those with mobility issues to sleep better. These specialist beds allow the head and foot sections to be raised or lowered at the touch of a button, making it far easier for the user to get in and out safely. 

Raising the head of the bed can help with everything from breathing difficulties and acid reflux to circulation problems, while the ability to raise the legs can reduce swelling and improve comfort. When it’s time to get up, gradually raising the head section helps users move to a sitting position more easily, reducing strain on the back and making standing less daunting.

The other nice thing about adjustable beds is that they’re available in both single and double sizes, so couples won’t need to sleep separately unless they choose to.

Not sure which style of mattress to go for? Memory foam or pocket spring mattresses that provide good support while conforming to body shape tend to work well, as they reduce pressure points and support natural spine alignment. These mattresses are firm enough to provide support but soft enough to cushion painful joints.

Supportive Chairs for Limited Mobility

The best type of chair for people with limited mobility is the riser recliner. These chairs are specifically designed to help people who struggle with sitting down or standing up. 

Using a manual control or electronic remote, the chair gently lifts the user to an almost standing position, making the transition much easier and reducing strain on knees, hips, and back. 

Beyond helping with transfers, these chairs provide excellent everyday comfort for people who spend considerable time sitting. Many models offer multiple recline positions, allowing users to find their optimal position for reading, watching television, or resting. Some also include additional features like heat and massage functions, which can be particularly beneficial as a fibromyalgia aid or for managing other chronic pain conditions like arthritis.

While rise and recline chairs primarily focus on comfort and safe transfers rather than encouraging movement, they also enable people to change positions throughout the day more easily. This position variation is important for circulation and preventing stiffness from prolonged static sitting.

Other Helpful Mobility Aids and Actions

As well as investing in quality mobility furniture for the home, there are some other helpful mobility aids and actions that can make everyday life easier for those who find moving a challenge:

Comfortable clothing: The right clothing choices can significantly impact mobility and independence. Opt for clothing with adaptive features like magnetic closures instead of small buttons, elastic waistbands rather than belts, and slip-on shoes instead of laces. These will reduce frustration and help to maintain dignity in personal care routines.

Encourage gentle, regular movement: Even small amounts of activity help preserve joint flexibility and muscle strength. Simple exercises like seated stretches, ankle circles, or short walks around the house can make a significant difference. The key is little and often rather than occasional intensive sessions.

Support rails and grab bars: These can provide confidence and safety in key areas like bathrooms, hallways, and beside beds. Occupational therapists can advise on the most appropriate options for individual needs.

Consider practical home modifications, too: Remove trip hazards like loose rugs, improve lighting in corridors and staircases, and ensure frequently used items are stored within easy reach. These actions will all contribute to a safer, more manageable living environment.

Quality Mobility Solutions That Work

We understand that choosing the right mobility furniture and aids for your loved one is a personal experience. Every family’s situation is different, and what works for one person may not suit another. That’s why our team is here to listen, help you explore different options, answer questions, and find solutions that truly make a difference to daily life.

Need an adjustable bed, supportive chair, or advice on creating a more accessible home environment? Contact us today to discuss your needs or request a free brochure to explore the full range of options available. Your loved one’s comfort, safety, and independence matter just as much to us as they do to you.