Types of Mobility Aids: A Plain Guide for Families

By Scott Smith. Last reviewed 21 October 2026.

How Do You Choose Where to Start?

Start with the task that is hardest or least safe, such as walking outdoors, getting up from a chair, using the bath or getting into the car. One aid rarely solves everything, and most people end up with a few that suit different jobs. An assessment by an occupational therapist or physiotherapist can save money and make sure the aid is safe. Mobility aids for elderly people should also suit the home, so measure doorways, stairs and storage space before buying anything large.

What Walking Aids Are There?

Walking sticks give light support and suit people who are fairly steady. Quad sticks have four feet for more stability. A walking frame gives the most support, and wheeled frames are easier to move. Rollators have four wheels, brakes and a seat, and suit people who walk steadily but need rests. Trolley walkers help carry meals around the home. Our guide to the best rollators in the UK compares popular frames.

When Is a Wheelchair the Right Choice?

A wheelchair helps when walking is very limited, unsafe or exhausting. Self propelled chairs have large rear wheels the user pushes, attendant chairs are pushed by a carer, and powered chairs are driven with a joystick. Many people use a wheelchair only for longer outings and walk at home. The NHS wheelchair service can assess people with long term needs, and our guide to the best wheelchair for elderly people covers the options.

Are Mobility Scooters a Good Option?

Scooters suit people who can walk a little and get on and off safely, but find longer distances hard. Boot scooters come apart for the car, pavement scooters are for footpaths, and road scooters can go on the road. They need storage and charging space. Our mobility scooters hub explains the classes and how to choose.

What Helps with Standing and Transfers?

A standing aid gives a firm handle to push up from a chair or bed. Bed levers, chair raisers and riser recliners make standing easier, and transfer boards, slide sheets and turntables help move between seats or in bed. Hoists are used when someone cannot stand, and need training. Our transfer aids guide covers these in detail, and our guide to car transfer devices looks at getting in and out of a car.

Bathroom and Daily Living Aids

Shower chairs, bath boards, grab rails and raised toilet seats make washing and using the toilet safer. Our bathroom aids guide explains each type. Small daily living aids include grabbers, sock aids, long shoe horns, easy grip cutlery, jar openers and kettle tippers, and the daily living aids page covers more.

How to Get Free Mobility Aids

Many people can get free mobility aids on loan. The main routes are below, and it helps to start with your GP or council.

1. Ask your GP for a referral to a physiotherapist or occupational therapist.
2. Request a needs assessment from social services from your council.
3. Ask the hospital team about aids before discharge after a stay or operation.
4. Contact the NHS wheelchair service if you need a wheelchair long term.
5. Look into short term loans from charities such as the Red Cross.

Knowing how to get free mobility aids can save a lot of money, though waiting times vary and some people choose to buy their own.

Sensory and Communication Aids

Mobility is not only about walking. Good lighting, contrasting tape on step edges and hearing loops can make moving around the home and out in town safer for people with sight or hearing loss. A personal alarm worn on the wrist or neck lets someone call for help after a fall. These sit alongside physical aids and are often arranged through the council or a local charity, so mention them during any assessment.

Can You Buy Aids VAT Free?

Yes. Many aids are VAT free when bought by a disabled person or someone with a long term illness for their own use. You usually sign a short declaration at checkout. Our guide to VAT relief on mobility aids explains who qualifies and which products count.

Keeping Aids Safe and in Good Order

Check aids regularly for wear, such as worn ferrules, loose brakes, flat tyres and cracked plastic. Keep the instructions and set heights correctly. Ask for a review if needs change, as an aid that was right a year ago may no longer be safe. Store aids where they are easy to reach, and make sure everyone who helps knows how to use them.

The aids below were in stock when we checked each listing. They give a flavour of the main types; ask a professional which suits the user.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Most Common Mobility Aid?

Walking sticks are the most common, followed by walking frames and rollators.

Who Decides Which Aid I Need?

You can choose for yourself, but an occupational therapist or physiotherapist can assess you and suggest the safest option.

Can I Try Mobility Aids Before Buying?

Many mobility shops let you try aids, and some areas have independent living centres with equipment on display.

Can I Use More Than One Type of Aid?

Yes. Many people use a walking stick indoors, a rollator for short trips and a wheelchair for longer outings.

Do I Need a Prescription for a Mobility Aid?

No. You can buy most aids freely, though a professional assessment is a good idea for larger equipment.