Moving past the social stigma of using an assistive device

September 2023 – The history of social stigma dates to ancient Greece where the term was generated “to refer to bodily signs to expose something unusual, a holy elder, or from the medical standpoint as a physical disorder.”¹ Many older adults view a mobility aide or assistive device as a limitation and label that highlights their difficulties. You commonly hear “I only use it inside so my friends don’t see,” “old people use them,” and “I don’t want anyone to feel sorry for me.” Most individuals see them as a hinderance or inconvenience that limits access to the places and activities that they want to do. When in fact, they will rather refuse to go to events or environments where they would have to use assistance from family or use a mobility aide. The discussion about use of aides & devices needs to occur more frequently and earlier in a plan of care, led by medical professionals, family members and community resources, to encourage independence and inclusion at events. Testing can help determine need and type of assistance necessary, and many older adults will find that they can be more independent and improve their energy efficiency with an aide or device. Appropriate use of mobility aides or assistive devices can help individuals do more of what matters and keep them independent in their homes longer.

¹ Goffman, E. (1990 [1963]). Stigma: Notes on the Management of Spoiled Identity. London, England: Penguin Books.