Struggling to find mobility aids that fully meet my needs

There is much room for improvement when it comes to mobility aids. Most of the affordable options are one-size-fits-all and not tailored to an individual’s needs. Even though I rely on assistive devices, none of them is a perfect fit for me.

Cushing’s disease has left me with myriad problems, including thinning bones, weak muscles, vision issues, and dizzy spells. My needs also change depending on how fatigued I am. Because of this, I use a heavy wheelchair, a single-point cane, and a multipoint cane, and am looking for a rollator as well.

My heavy wheelchair is incredibly sturdy, offering plenty of stability and support. I chose it instead of a lighter-weight one because my weak arms make self-propelling difficult. However, the biggest downside is that I need someone to push me. It aids mobility, but not independence.

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My canes are helpful, but not as much as my wheelchair. I use the lightweight single-point one for travel and bring the multipoint one with me when I’m out locally without my wheelchair. Canes help me balance and avoid falling, but I have to switch hands regularly so I don’t put too much strain on one side of my body.

I’m working toward buying a rollator because it’ll give me better support while still letting me walk, as well as a place to sit, which I appreciate. It won’t let me sit and move, though. I’ll also have to be cautious because it might roll faster than I walk if I’m going downhill.

Other options

There are other types of mobility aids, but none fully meets my needs.

Crutches are known to lead to muscle fatigue, which is the opposite of what I need. A standard walker with rubber-tipped legs has to be lifted with each step, which would be challenging for me. A mobility scooter would be difficult for me to operate after dark because I have night vision issues. I usually use my canes to feel around or have someone guide me in my wheelchair. I’d also need a more stable seat than scooters typically have.

A power wheelchair would pose similar issues at night, but the bigger problem is the cost, which would likely be several thousand dollars.

I wish more disabled people were included in the design and development of mobility aids. We need a wider range of options, as well as more add-ons and accessories. All I want is to get around independently and pain-free. Everyone deserves that.

You can also follow my journey on TikTok and YouTube.

Note: Cushing’s Disease News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Cushing’s Disease News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Cushing’s.