Home mobile medical devices provide those with reduced mobility a dramatic improvement in their quality of life. The devices enable you to participate more easily in a social life, get out of the house, or even just get around the house. These are devices are also quite common, with an estimated 6.8 million Americans using them.
Of course, like any other kind of medical equipment, mobility assistance devices need a certain level of maintenance. So, what can you do to keep your mobile freedom and extend the life of your devices? Keep reading for some basic maintenance tips.
Canes and Walkers
Some of the simplest and most common devices in use for walking assistance are canes and walkers. These devices help you maintain balance and avoid falls, which matters more and more as you age.
If you’re wondering how to care for a walking cane or walker, there is good news on that front. Maintenance on these devices is very straightforward.
For the most part, you just need to keep them clean. A damp cloth will help you remove any dust, dirt, or mud that the can or walker picks up as you use it.
You should keep an eye on the tips of the walker or cane. If the rubber or metal wears down, you should replace it. If your walker has wheels, oil them if they stop rolling smoothly.
Power Wheelchair
Power wheelchairs offer more challenges in terms of maintenance, but they’re still fairly manageable challenges. Keep a close eye on the tires for wear. If you see the tires wearing more on one side or along the edges, consider replacing them since that can pull the chair off course.
You’ll want to keep the chair clean with a damp cloth. You should also make an effort to keep the chair dry or dry it off as soon as possible if it gets wet. The water can damage the electronics in the chair.
Mobility Scooter
A mobility scooter has similar maintenance requirements as a power wheelchair. Use the damp cloth method on the handlebars and the stem that connects the handlebars with the rest of the scooter. Do the same for the seat.
The lower deck of the scooter where your feet sit will need periodic cleaning. A little bit of warm soapy water and a sponge or cloth should do the trick.
When possible, leave the scooter stored in a dry area. Try to make sure that you keep the battery dry at all times.
Mobile Medical Equipment Maintenance and You
On the whole, mobile medical equipment maintenance isn’t too demanding. It mostly consists of keeping your devices clean with a damp cloth or a bit of soapy water and a damp cloth.
For power wheelchairs and mobility scooters, keep an eye on the tires for wear and proper inflation. Try to keep both scooters and power wheelchairs dry, as the water can affect the electronics and batteries.
Looking for more health and medical tips? Check out the posts in our Health section.
