Seniors and people with limited mobility who rely on a PMA generally spend a good deal of their day using it and will want it to work seamlessly for their needs. Whether a device only has the essential functionalities or comes with a few extra features, there is much that one can do to customise and get the most out of it through accessories. From simple baskets to multipurpose holders, many attachments can ease the various everyday struggles that PMA users face. Below, we go over some of the most popular accessories that can significantly improve your experience when using wheelchairs, mobility scooters, walkers, and so on.
1. Bags and baskets
Storage accessories like bags and baskets are a must-have for staying organised and storing all your things in one place as well as keeping your hands free for other tasks. Groceries, personal belongings, and the like are just a few examples that people carry in their day-to-day routine, which can be cumbersome to lug around for long periods, especially on a day trip. Having a front basket is best for getting quick access to things like keys and phones, while a rear bag compartment is better suited for stowing away bigger items. By installing one or more of these storage compartments on your wheelchair or scooter, you can enjoy improved convenience and mobility when using your mobility aid.
2. Ergo cushions
Ergonomic cushions are another great accessory that provides additional support and stability to the user. Moreover, the wide variety of styles and options available today makes it easier to choose cushions that can address your specific aches, pains, and other comfort needs. Additionally, they also help protect skin from sores and ulcers and promote better pressure distribution.
For instance, if you experience lower back pain, adding a backrest with lumbar support can make a world of difference to your user experience by stabilising your spine and torso throughout the day. Third-party armrest cushioning is also worth considering given that those that come preinstalled tend to wear down over time and gradually become less accommodating to the forearms.
3. Cup holders and phone mounts
It’s helpful to have specific storage accessories on top of more general ones for the items you carry the most. A prime example is cup holders, which have become an essential feature in just about everything from sofas to vehicles, which is why there is no reason not to improve your mobility aid with this convenience as well. Similarly, a smartphone mount can also be handy to stay connected while remaining hands-free.
4. Wheelchair gloves
Those who use manual wheelchairs know well just how navigating with it can take a toll on one’s hands. As such, it is highly recommended to use specialised wheelchair gloves to protect your hands and support them when performing day-to-day repetitive movements. With these double padded gloves on, you not only gain more control when accelerating, steering, and stopping but also feel far more comfortable when doing so.
5. Multipurpose holder for walking frame, cane and crutches
It is common for many mobility aid users to have more than one PMA in Singapore to effectively cover all their navigation needs. For instance, some may rely on mobility scooters or motorised wheelchairs to cover long distances and go back to using a cane or walker when at home or indoors. A multipurpose holder can make carrying these secondary aids much less of a hassle and ensure they are properly secured during transport so they don’t fall or get lost.
6. Oxygen tank holder
This accessory is much like the previous one but is designed to hold oxygen tanks securely and alleviate the inconvenience of carrying them around. People with breathing complications often have their mobility limited due to needing to bring along these essential but heavy items. However, with the aid of a motorised wheelchair or mobility scooter outfitted with this accessory, they become better equipped to regain their independence.
7. Wheelchair trays
Using your lap to hold food or do any activity that requires a stable surface while riding a wheelchair or scooter can often lead to messy outcomes. A simple tray attachment can make such tasks a lot easier to do and far more comfortable to boot. With this accessory on hand, writing, eating, and so on become much more of a breeze.
8. Tire repair kit
Running out of battery isn’t the only emergency you should be worried about when out and about with your motorised wheelchair or mobility scooter. A flat tire is another common issue you might run into during inopportune moments, hence why it’s important to have a tire repair kit handy to get yourself unstuck quickly. These kits typically come with patches, tire keys, and a mini pump, with some including bearing lubricant and an allen key to allow for more comprehensive repairs.
Conclusion
Having the right accessories can significantly enhance your mobility aid experience, improving both functionality and comfort. From storage options to protective gear, these must-have accessories make using your PMA more efficient and tailored to your needs. Investing in the right add-ons ensures you get the most out of your device, making daily tasks easier and further improving your quality of life.
In the market for some of the accessories listed above? Falcon Mobility (Rebranding to ELFIGO) has a good selection of add-ons designed to enhance your experience in many ways. Whether it’s scooter capes and covers, rear view mirrors, or flight kits for mobility scooters, we’re the one-stop shop you can trust to meet all your mobility aid needs.