A Guide for Mobility Support at Home – Helping people stay active, independent, and safe in their own homes

As we age, our mobility can naturally decrease due to a range of factors—muscle loss, joint pain, balance issues, or medical conditions. Yet, staying mobile is crucial for physical health, emotional wellbeing, and independence.

According to NHS England, falls are the most common cause of injury-related hospital admissions for people over 65. Meanwhile, Age UK reports that nearly 50% of people over 80 fall at least once a year, often at home.

The good news? There are many practical ways to support mobility at home—from small changes to professional help and specialised equipment. This guide explores what’s available to help older adults stay active and safe in familiar surroundings.

Why Mobility Matters at Home

Mobility isn’t just about getting from room to room—it impacts nearly every aspect of daily life, including:

• Being able to use the bathroom independently
• Preparing meals and accessing food safely
• Avoiding long periods of sitting or lying down
• Maintaining social contact and mental health

Reduced mobility can lead to:

• Increased risk of falls and injury
• Isolation and reduced confidence
• Slower recovery from illness or surgery
• A greater need for hospital admissions or residential care

Equipment to Support Mobility and Safe Movement at Home

Maintaining mobility safely at home often requires adjustments to the living environment and the use of assistive tools. These can range from simple walking aids to specialised equipment for safe handling and movement.

• Walking Aids

– Canes and walking sticks – Provide balance support
– Rollators and wheeled walkers – With brakes and seats for stability and rest
– Zimmer frames – Ideal for indoor use with strong support

• Bathroom & Bedroom Aids

– Grab rails – In hallways, bathrooms, and near stairs
– Shower chairs and bath lifts – Reduce the risk of slipping while bathing
– Raised toilet seats – Make sitting and standing easier
– Bed levers and rails – Help with getting in and out of bed safely

Moving and Handling Equipment for Use at Home

For people with more limited mobility or complex care needs, moving and handling equipment helps ensure both the individual’s safety and that of carers or family members.

• Transfer Aids

– Transfer boards – Allow sliding from one surface to another (e.g., bed to wheelchair)
– Turntables (pivot discs) – Help safely rotate and reposition feet during transfers
– Slide sheets – Reduce friction when repositioning in bed
– Transfer belts – Provide a secure grip for safe assisted movement

• Hoists and Slings

– Mobile hoists – Used to lift someone safely from bed, chair, or the floor
– Ceiling track hoists – Permanent fixtures offering smoother transfers across rooms
– Slings – Used with hoists for full-body, toileting, or repositioning support

• Stand Aids

– Standing hoists or active stand aids – Assist people who can partially weight-bear to transfer safely from one position to another

• Adjustable Furniture

– Profiling beds – Allow sections of the bed to be raised or lowered electrically
– Riser recliner chairs – Make it easier to stand up and sit down comfortably

Note: Moving and handling equipment should always be recommended and used under guidance from a trained professional, such as an occupational therapist or physiotherapist, to ensure safety.

Who Can Help Assess Mobility Needs?

Several professionals can provide advice and support tailored to individual needs:

• Occupational Therapists (OTs)

– Assess home environments
– Recommend appropriate adaptations and aids
– Support applications for local authority funding or NHS equipment

• Physiotherapists

– Help build strength, balance, and coordination
– Create personalised rehab or exercise routines to maintain movement

• Care Assistants or Homecare Workers

– Provide daily assistance with safe movement, transfers, and routines
– Encourage confidence and regular activity
– Communicate any changes in ability to healthcare professionals

At-Home Exercises to Support Mobility

Simple daily exercises can help maintain strength and reduce the risk of falls. Safe examples include:

• Seated leg lifts – Strengthen thigh and hip muscles
• Heel raises – Support ankle strength and balance
• Marching in place – Promotes circulation and joint movement
• Standing balance holds – Performed with a stable surface for support

Always check with a GP or physiotherapist before starting new exercises.
Useful resources:

• NHS Balance and Strength Exercises
• Age UK’s “Staying Steady” guide

Accessing Equipment and Support in the UK

There are several ways to access mobility and handling aids:

• NHS and Local Authority Support

– Ask your GP or local council for an occupational therapy referral
– Many aids are available free on loan through Community Equipment Services Calderdale Community Equipment Loan Store – CHFT
– Larger modifications (e.g. stairlifts, accessible showers) may qualify for the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) Disabled Facilities Grants: Overview – GOV.UK

• Private Purchase and Hire

– Mobility stores and online suppliers (e.g. NRS Healthcare, Millbrook, Medequip)
– Some equipment is available for short-term rental, particularly post-surgery or hospital discharge

• Charity Support

– Age UK, Versus Arthritis, and the Royal Voluntary Service offer information, home checks, and in some cases, grants or practical help

Mobility challenges are a common part of aging—but with the right knowledge and support, many people can continue living independently and confidently in their own homes.

Even small adjustments—like grab rails or a walking aid—can make a big difference. More complex needs can be met with the right advice, equipment, and assistance from professionals.

Early planning and open conversations are key to preventing accidents and maintaining quality of life.