Due to restrictions surrounding the pandemic, many seniors experience much less activity and this is very worrying as it may lead to a loss of mobility. As we transition towards living with Covid-19, we have to start adjusting to this new normal and go back to our daily routines where possible.

Why not start bringing your elderly parents out while they are still mobile? This is a great way for them to enjoy some fresh air and exercise so they can maintain their muscle strength and improve their range of motion, ultimately helping them to age better.

We understand that bringing elderly parents out can be daunting, especially if they have mobility issues. However, there are also wonderful benefits when they go out, such as diminishing boredom and reducing the risk of suffering from health problems such as loss of sleep and chronic pain.

Here are 5 tips to take note of when you bring your parents out:

1. Ensure that the location is accessible

The first thing you should take note of is the ease of accessibility of your destination. Transportation to and from the location is a key point to consider. You would not want to bring your elderly parents somewhere where a lot of walking is required. 

If you are planning to take public transportation there, ensure that the bus stop or MRT station is a short walking distance away. Alternatively, if you have your own vehicle, ensure that there are accessible parking spots nearby. Consider our car accessories to help your loved ones get in and out of the car easily!

Our Stander Metro Car Handle Plus and Swivel Cushion is the perfect combination to help them do so!

Shop our full car accessories collection HERE!

Going to places that are easily accessible can even help to encourage your elderly loved one to go out more often. It gives them a sense of assurance and certainty that they are able to go back home easily in the event that they get tired halfway through the trip. 

Additionally, if your elderly parent requires a wheelchair, make sure that the location you decide to go to is wheelchair-friendly.

2. Plan your route

Another thing to note is your travelling route. It would be helpful for you to find out where the toilets are beforehand, and ensure that they are easily accessible. This is crucial especially if your elderly parent is in a wheelchair. You may also want to consider going somewhere indoors or find out the nearest shelters in case it gets too hot or starts raining.

3. Make sure there is somewhere to sit

The elderly get tired easily and hence they need a place to sit down and rest. When planning your route, it is important to check for available benches nearby that can be used for resting on the way.

Consider getting our Folding Seat Cane. Available in 3 different colours (Black Urban, Ultra Violet, Emerald), this cane has a convenient folding design that not only provides your loved ones with support while walking, but also a place to rest at any time and anywhere.

4. Equip them with walking aids

In order to promote independence in your elderly parents, it is always good to equip them with mobility aids that can help to provide them with a stable support at all times. This way, it would give them the confidence to travel longer distances by themselves, which may even encourage them to walk more.

Having walking aids with a two-handled support such as walkers and rollators are ideal for travelling long distances.

Our Stander EZ Fold-N-Go Walker is a great alternative to traditional walking frames. No lifting is required, allowing users to have a great stable support while walking. Its rear ski gliders help to provide friction, serving as an additional support for the user.

No benches, no problem! For elders who are more mobile, our HappyWheels Lightweight Travel Rollator would be a more suitable option. What’s better, it also serves as a portable chair with its built-in seat. Users can simply engage the brakes and sit down to rest. With our rollator, you will have one less thing to worry about!

The Rollz Motion 2-in-1 Rollator Pushchair is the perfect product for your elderly loved one if they are still mobile but are not able to walk much. When they are tired, the rollator can easily be converted into a pushchair in seconds. It is a great travel companion that can help to  encourage seniors to walk more. The pushchair serves as a safety net whereby they can decide to stop walking whenever they want to and not worry about being too tired to continue their journey.

Check out Grandma Lily using her Rollz Motion 2-in-1 Rollator Pushchair at her recent outing to the beach!

For users who only require light support for walking, you may also want to consider our stylish and modern foldable walking canes by The Cane Collective. Available in 14 fun and colourful designs, you can even match them to your outfit or aesthetic. Fold them and keep it in your bag when not in use!

5. Consider bringing these items

These items are necessities that people often forget to bring out. Depending on the location, choose and pack the following items accordingly!

• Water
• Umbrella
• Jacket
• Portable fan
• Wet wipes