Finding the right mobility aid during the pandemic

GAF

By John Hlava

GAF Mobility Aids Program Chair

One would think that getting a needed mobility aid during the pandemic would be next to impossible due to the fact that Clubhouse 6, where the storeroom is located, is closed.

Luckily, nothing could be further from the truth; in a lot of ways, it’s even easier. Just call the Golden Age Foundation’s voicemail line at (562) 431-9589 and leave your information. A volunteer will call you back to figure out what will best serve your needs and help you get the equipment you desire. Using this telephone system reduces personal contact as much as possible to help keep the community healthy.

The Mobility Aids Program offers five different pieces of equipment including three kinds of walkers and two kinds of chairs.

Everyone is familiar with the tennis ball style walker. It’s really handy inside of an apartment because of its rock-solid stability and easy portability. For more adventurous people wanting to get outside, the four-wheeled walker with a fold-down seat and brakes is very handy. Although a lot of people call this a walker, it’s actually called a “rollator.” Because a rollator is bulkier, it is best used outside..

The last kind of walker that the GAF offers is the knee walker. It is better for injury recovery of the foot and ankle. They are ideal for keeping all weight off a lower leg because all of the weight is on the knee.

There are two different kinds of chairs available for residents to borrow such as the wheelchair and its brother, the transport chair. Wheelchairs feature big back wheels that allow occupants to move themselves around. Transport chairs have small back wheels, which means that the person using the chair must have a spouse, caregiver or friend to provide the propulsion. Because of the smaller wheels, the transport chair is generally lighter.

The Golden Age Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the special needs of Leisure World shareholders. We are happy to provide these mobility aids free of charge to residents. It all starts with a phone call to (562) 431-9589.

Resident Dena Anderson found she enjoys walking more after having her rollator adjusted for her height.