As mobility needs change, everyday tasks—like getting to appointments, navigating airports, or moving around your community—can become more challenging. The good news is that many helpful services exist to support mobility, independence, and safety. Whether you need transportation, equipment, or home modifications, requesting assistance is easier than you might think.
This guide walks you through senior-friendly steps to find, request, and receive the mobility support you need with confidence.
Why Requesting Mobility Assistance Matters
Mobility support isn’t just about getting from one place to another—it’s about maintaining independence, safety, and peace of mind.
Assistance can help you:
- Prevent falls and injuries
- Move more confidently
- Access medical and social appointments
- Stay active in your community
- Maintain independence longer
- Reduce physical strain and fatigue
Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Step 1: Talk to Your Doctor About Your Mobility Needs
Your doctor is one of the best first sources of support.
They can help by:
- Identifying the cause of mobility challenges
- Recommending mobility aids
- Writing prescriptions for walkers, canes, or wheelchairs
- Referring you to physical or occupational therapy
- Completing paperwork required for insurance coverage
A simple conversation can unlock important resources.
Step 2: Get an Evaluation From a Physical or Occupational Therapist
Therapists specialize in understanding movement and safety.
They can recommend:
- The right mobility equipment
- Safer ways to move around your home
- Strengthening exercises
- Techniques to prevent falls
- Whether you need short-term or long-term support
Their evaluation may also be required for insurance coverage.
Step 3: Request Mobility Equipment Through Insurance or Medicare
Many mobility tools are covered partially or fully by insurance.
Medicare Part B may cover:
- Walkers
- Canes
- Wheelchairs
- Scooters (in certain cases)
- Lift chairs (motorized component only)
To qualify, your doctor must provide documentation showing it’s medically necessary.
For the easiest process:
- Get a written prescription
- Use a Medicare-approved supplier
- Keep copies of all paperwork
- Call Medicare or your insurer if you need guidance
Most equipment is delivered directly to your home.
Step 4: Use Community-Based Mobility Services
Local senior services provide valuable support for daily mobility needs.
Your Area Agency on Aging (AAA) can connect you with:
- Transportation to medical appointments
- Senior shuttle services
- Mobility equipment loan programs
- Home safety assessments
- Mobility-focused exercise classes
Find your AAA at Eldercare.acl.gov or call 1-800-677-1116.
Step 5: Request Transportation Assistance
If driving has become difficult, you still have many options.
Senior transportation services include:
- Paratransit (door-to-door service)
- Senior ride programs
- Medical appointment shuttles
- Volunteer driver programs
- Ride services through nonprofits
- Wheelchair-accessible vans
How to request service:
- Call your local AAA
- Contact local senior centers
- Ask your doctor’s office about transportation programs
- Visit your city’s transit website
Schedule rides in advance when possible.
Step 6: Ask for Assistance in Public Spaces
Many places offer mobility help—you just need to ask.
Shopping centers:
- Motorized carts
- Wheelchairs
- Store staff assistance
Airports:
- Wheelchair service
- Priority boarding
- Mobility assistance between gates
- Escort support through TSA
Hospitals and clinics:
- Wheelchairs at entrances
- Staff-trained patient transport
- Curbside drop-off assistance
It’s common and encouraged for seniors to request these services.
Step 7: Get Help With Home Mobility and Safety
A safe home is essential for long-term independence.
Ways to improve home mobility include:
- Grab bars in bathrooms
- Raised toilet seats
- Ramps at entryways
- Non-slip mats
- Bed rails
- Chair lifts
- Improved lighting
Where to request home safety evaluations:
- Your doctor
- Occupational therapists
- AAA home safety programs
- VA programs (if you’re a veteran)
- Local senior nonprofits
Some areas offer free or low-cost safety installations.
Step 8: Ask Family or Caregivers for Support
If you feel comfortable, let trusted loved ones know what you need.
Ask for:
- Help with appointments
- Support with errands
- Assistance lifting heavy items
- Help rearranging furniture for safe movement
- Driving help for longer trips
Loved ones often want to help—they just need to know how.
Step 9: Explore Mobility Grants and Financial Assistance
If cost is a concern, many programs can help.
Possible resources:
- State-funded senior mobility grants
- Nonprofit organizations (Easterseals, Lions Clubs)
- Medicaid waivers
- Local disability programs
- Veterans benefits (VA Aid & Attendance)
- Equipment loan closets
These programs can significantly reduce or cover mobility-related expenses.
Step 10: Advocate for Yourself
You deserve support that meets your needs.
Advocate confidently by:
- Asking questions
- Requesting written information
- Comparing equipment options
- Following up on paperwork
- Bringing a friend or family member to appointments
Your safety and independence are worth speaking up for.
Final Thoughts
Mobility support is not just about equipment—it’s about living your life with confidence, comfort, and independence. By talking to your doctor, using local senior services, requesting transportation help, and making your home safer, you can create a support system that helps you move through daily life with ease.
There are many resources available—you just need to take the first step. With the right support, mobility challenges become manageable and your world becomes more accessible.