Types of Walking Aids Available

Walking aids form the foundation of mobility equipment, providing stability and support for people with various mobility challenges. Walking sticks and canes offer basic support for those needing minimal assistance, available in adjustable heights and various handle styles including ergonomic designs reducing hand strain. Walking frames, often called zimmer frames, provide stable four-point support ideal for people requiring substantial balance assistance or recovering from surgery. Rollators or rolling walkers combine frame stability with wheels, hand brakes, and often built-in seats, allowing users to rest when needed whilst maintaining mobility over longer distances. Three-wheel rollators offer excellent manoeuvrability in tight spaces, whilst four-wheel versions provide greater stability for outdoor use. Knee walkers or knee scooters support people with lower leg injuries who cannot bear weight on one foot, providing an alternative to crutches that reduces upper body strain. Forearm crutches and underarm crutches assist people who can bear some weight but need additional support. Each walking aid type serves different mobility needs, and suppliers can help determine which option best suits your situation and environment.

Wheelchair Options and Features

Wheelchairs provide essential mobility for people unable to walk or who cannot walk distances safely. Manual wheelchairs come in two primary types—self-propelled models allowing users to move themselves using hand rims on the wheels, and transit wheelchairs designed to be pushed by caregivers, featuring smaller wheels and lighter construction for easier transport. Lightweight wheelchairs constructed from aluminium or other materials reduce the effort required for propulsion and transportation. Folding wheelchairs collapse for storage in vehicles or homes with limited space. Bariatric wheelchairs accommodate larger body sizes with reinforced frames and wider seats supporting higher weight capacities. Reclining wheelchairs allow position changes reducing pressure and improving comfort during extended sitting. Paediatric wheelchairs serve children's specific sizing and support needs. Electric wheelchairs or powerchairs use battery-powered motors enabling independent mobility for people lacking the strength or endurance to self-propel manual wheelchairs. These feature various control options including joystick operation, allowing precise movement control indoors and outdoors. Wheelchair selection depends on multiple factors including user strength, environment, transport requirements, and specific medical needs.

Mobility Scooters for Independent Travel

Mobility scooters provide powered transportation for people who can walk short distances but lack stamina for longer journeys. Three-wheel scooters offer tight turning circles ideal for indoor use and navigating shops, whilst four-wheel models provide enhanced stability for outdoor terrain and uneven surfaces. Portable or travel scooters disassemble into manageable pieces fitting vehicle boots, perfect for people who drive or travel frequently. Mid-size scooters balance portability with comfort and battery range, suitable for daily errands and local travel. Heavy-duty or road scooters feature larger batteries, higher weight capacities, suspension systems, and greater ground clearance for extended outdoor use including footpaths and light off-road conditions. Scooter specifications include maximum speed typically ranging from 6 to 15 kilometres per hour, battery range affecting distance capabilities, weight capacity, and seat comfort features. Many models offer adjustable seats, armrests, and tillers accommodating different body sizes and comfort preferences. Safety features include lights, indicators, and horn systems required for road use. Suppliers typically provide demonstrations and sometimes home trials allowing you to test scooters in your actual environment before purchasing.

Bathroom and Toilet Safety Equipment

Bathroom safety equipment prevents falls and supports independence in potentially hazardous wet environments. Shower chairs and shower stools provide stable seating for people who cannot stand safely whilst bathing. These range from basic plastic stools to padded chairs with backrests and armrests offering greater comfort and support. Shower commodes combine toilet and shower functions, featuring wheels for positioning over toilets or in showers, ideal for people with severe mobility limitations. Grab rails and support rails install on walls providing secure hand holds for manoeuvring in bathrooms. Toilet frames position around toilets offering armrests for lowering and raising, whilst raised toilet seats increase seat height reducing the distance users must lower themselves. Commodes provide portable toileting solutions for people who cannot reach bathrooms safely, available in various styles including bedside models and wheeled versions. Bath boards and transfer benches assist with getting in and out of baths safely. Non-slip bath mats and shower mats reduce fall risks on wet surfaces. Long-handled bathing aids help people with limited reach or flexibility wash independently. This bathroom equipment enables safer, more independent personal care whilst reducing injury risks.

Bedroom and Daily Living Equipment

Equipment supporting bedroom activities and daily tasks enhances independence and comfort. Electric adjustable beds feature motors controlling head and foot positioning, making it easier to get in and out whilst providing comfortable positions for reading, watching television, or managing medical conditions like reflux or breathing difficulties. Hospital beds offer similar functionality with additional features like side rails for safety. Overbed tables position across beds allowing eating, reading, or working whilst in bed. Bed rails and grab handles assist with turning and rising. Transfer aids including slide sheets and transfer boards help caregivers move people safely between beds, chairs, and wheelchairs. Lift chairs or riser recliner chairs feature electric mechanisms tilting forward to assist standing whilst providing comfortable reclining positions. Kitchen aids including adapted utensils, jar openers, and reaching tools help people with limited hand strength or reach prepare meals independently. Dressing aids like sock aids, long-handled shoehorns, and button hooks assist with clothing. These daily living aids address specific challenges, enabling people to maintain independence in routine activities despite physical limitations.

Equipment Funding and Financial Support

Various funding sources may help cover mobility equipment costs for eligible individuals. ACC provides funding for equipment needed following accidents or injuries occurring in New Zealand, covering both temporary aids during recovery and permanent equipment for ongoing needs. This may include wheelchairs, walking aids, bathroom equipment, and home modifications. The Ministry of Health through district health boards provides funding for equipment meeting disability-related needs not covered by ACC. Eligibility depends on assessment determining that equipment meets reasonable and necessary criteria. Work and Income New Zealand offers disability allowances helping with ongoing disability-related costs including equipment maintenance. Some charitable organisations provide grants for mobility equipment, particularly for children or people in specific circumstances. War pensions may cover equipment for eligible veterans. Private health insurance policies sometimes include mobility equipment coverage, though terms vary significantly between policies. Equipment suppliers familiar with these funding pathways can often guide you through application processes. Even without funding, many suppliers offer payment plans making equipment more accessible. Understanding available financial support options helps ensure cost doesn't prevent access to equipment enhancing independence and quality of life.

Equipment Hire and Short-Term Rental

Hiring or renting mobility equipment provides practical solutions for temporary needs or trial periods before purchasing. Short-term hire suits people recovering from surgery or injury who need equipment for weeks or months but won't require it permanently. This proves more economical than purchasing equipment you'll only use briefly. Equipment available for hire typically includes wheelchairs, walking frames, mobility scooters, shower chairs, commodes, and various other aids. Rental periods range from daily to monthly rates, with longer-term hire often offering better value. Hire particularly benefits people visiting Tauranga who need mobility equipment during their stay but cannot transport their own. Some suppliers deliver hired equipment to homes, hotels, or cruise ship terminals. Hiring also allows you to try different equipment types before committing to purchase, ensuring you choose the most suitable option for your needs. This trial period proves particularly valuable for expensive equipment like mobility scooters or electric wheelchairs where making the right choice matters significantly. Hire equipment should be well-maintained and hygienically prepared between users. Reputable suppliers provide clear hire agreements outlining responsibilities, damage policies, and return procedures.

Professional Assessment and Selection

Choosing appropriate mobility equipment requires considering multiple factors beyond basic function. Professional assessments help identify equipment matching your specific needs, abilities, and environment. Occupational therapists specialising in mobility equipment can evaluate your situation comprehensively, considering medical conditions, physical capabilities, home environment, lifestyle requirements, and future needs. They recommend specific equipment types and features addressing your particular circumstances. Many mobility equipment suppliers employ trained staff who conduct assessments, though these may be less comprehensive than occupational therapy evaluations. Key assessment considerations include your strength and endurance levels, balance and coordination, living environment including doorway widths and floor surfaces, transport requirements if equipment needs travelling in vehicles, and how your needs might change over time. For wheelchairs, proper sizing proves critical—seat width, depth, and height all affect comfort and function. Walking aid height adjustments ensure proper posture preventing strain. Mobility scooter selection considers where you'll use it, distances you'll travel, and terrain you'll encounter. Taking time for proper assessment rather than rushing equipment selection helps ensure you acquire aids that genuinely meet your needs and remain suitable over time.

Maintenance and Servicing

Regular maintenance keeps mobility equipment functioning safely and reliably. Mobility scooters and electric wheelchairs require scheduled servicing similar to vehicles, typically recommended every six to twelve months depending on usage frequency. Service includes battery testing and maintenance, tyre pressure and tread checks, brake adjustments, electrical system testing, and general mechanical inspection identifying wear or developing issues. Batteries represent significant costs and require proper maintenance to maximise lifespan—regular charging, avoiding complete discharge, and eventual replacement after several years. Manual wheelchairs need periodic checks of wheel alignment, tyre condition, brake function, and moving parts requiring lubrication. Walking frames and rollators need brake pad checks, wheel bearing maintenance, and frame integrity inspection. Many suppliers provide maintenance services for equipment purchased from them, sometimes offering service contracts or warranties covering repairs. Keeping equipment properly maintained ensures safety, reliability, and longevity, preventing breakdowns when you depend on mobility aids for daily function. Address issues promptly rather than continuing to use malfunctioning equipment, as this often prevents more serious damage whilst maintaining safety. Reputable suppliers stock replacement parts and can arrange repairs efficiently, minimising time without essential equipment.

Choosing Your Mobility Equipment Provider

Selecting the right mobility equipment supplier involves evaluating several important factors. Look for suppliers with experienced, knowledgeable staff who can provide expert advice rather than simply selling products. Good suppliers take time to understand your needs, explain options clearly, and help you make informed decisions. Product range matters—suppliers stocking diverse equipment types and brands offer more choices finding the best solution for your situation. Check whether they provide demonstrations and home trials allowing you to test equipment before purchasing, particularly for expensive items like scooters or electric wheelchairs. Availability of after-sales support including maintenance, repairs, and parts supply proves essential for powered equipment requiring ongoing servicing. Verify warranty coverage on equipment and understand what it includes. Consider whether suppliers work with funding organisations like ACC or have experience assisting with funding applications if this applies to you. Some suppliers offer hire services useful for temporary needs or equipment trials. Physical showrooms allow you to see and try equipment personally, though reputable online suppliers can also provide good service with home delivery and returns policies. Our directory provides detailed information about Tauranga mobility aid providers including their product ranges, services offered, and customer feedback, helping you find suppliers matching your specific requirements for mobility equipment and support.