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Walking sticks, the earliest form of mobility aids, are thought to be as old as humanity itself, dating back to primitive human society. Although there is no recorded history, it is assumed humans used tree branches as a tool for support and protection.

The ancient Egyptian pharaoh Tutankhamun is the earliest example of mobility aids in recorded history. He was often depicted with a staff in art from that era, and 130 walking sticks were found in his tomb, which scholars believe were an ancient form of crutch or cane. 

As the world of healthcare has changed and evolved, from the adoption of hygiene practices and the development of vaccines, to being able to research symptoms online and even complete online FNP programsso have mobility aids. Humanity has come a long way from using tree branches as a primitive crutch.

Learning the history of mobility aids, especially if you work in healthcare, is a great way to appreciate how far the technology has come. It’s also a good opportunity to better understand the tools, how they have evolved, and what drove innovation.

What is a mobility aid?


Before delving into the rich history of mobility aids, it’s important to define what it is. Mobility aids, also known as ambulation devices, are any tools or devices that help people walk or move from place to place if they have an injury or disability. 

There is a range of different types of mobility aids. The type required will depend on the user’s mobility issue or injury, and their personal preference. The most common types of mobility aids include:

Crutches: Crutches help transfer the weight from the legs to the upper body, and can be used singly or in pairs. A person might use a crutch, for example, if they break their leg.

Canes: Canes are similar to crutches, but instead of shifting the weight from the legs to the upper body, it is transferred to the hands and wrists. In the United States, it is estimated that 1 in every 10 adults over the age of 65 uses a cane.

Walkers: These devices, also known as Zimmer frames, are made up of a metal framework with four legs, providing the user with stability and support while they move.

Wheelchairs: Wheelchairs can be moved manually or electrically. It helps people who are unable to move their legs due to an injury or disability to move.

Motorized scooters: Also known as mobility scooters, these are similar to wheelchairs. They are usually battery-powered and allow a person to move while their feet/legs are resting. Availability and rules for use vary by location.

Prostheses: Prosthetic limbs are also a form of mobility aid, replacing a body part that is missing due to an accident, amputation, or birth defect. There are many types of prostheses, and they can also be customized/personalized for the user.

Ramps, stairlifts, and handrails are also mobility aids. The difference is that they usually aren’t user-owned, and rather are incorporated into the environment.

The importance of mobility aids

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A paper published in the National Library of Medicine reports that more than 6 million adults in the United States currently use mobility devices (aids). Additionally, about two-thirds of these users are adults over the age of 65.

Similar statistics are reported by Disabled World, which lists over 6.8 million community-resident Americans using mobility aids. Despite common belief, not all users are elderly, either. 

Many disabilities and injuries can impact a younger person’s ability to move comfortably, requiring the use of a mobility aid. Research has found that there is a significant number of Americans aged 18 to 49 who report mobility difficulty.

Mobility aids are important because they help provide people living with an injury or mobility-related disability enhanced quality of life. It helps them retain their independence, lowers the risk of further injury, and reduces pain and fatigue.

Depending on the mobility aid, studies suggest it can be beneficial for the user’s mental health, too. As they’re able to exercise, which is linked to positive psychological well-being, more opportunities to go out and socialize, and increase self-confidence.

A look into the history & advancements


From tree branches and ancient crutches to today’s battery-powered scooters, mobility aid technology has advanced over the years to provide a better quality of life and comfort. Below is a list outlining the key advancements of modern mobility aids over the centuries.

6th Century BC — Ancient wheelchairs


The earliest known record of mobility aids beyond staffs, crutches, and canes dates back to the 6th Century BC. There was an artefact found that depicted one of the first known wheelchairs, used by the renowned philosopher Confucius.

11th to 15th Century — Walking sticks


Although it’s estimated that walking sticks have been around since primitive human society, they evolved and grew in popularity in the Middle Ages. For example, in the 11th century, walking sticks were used in France, particularly by nobility.

By the 15th century, they were commonplace, used for function, aesthetics, or a combination of both. Archaeologists have found many examples of ornately-carved walking sticks, and it was during Henry VIII’s reign that the first use of the word ‘cane’ was recorded.

1655 — The first self-propelled wheelchair


While it is hard to pinpoint when the first wheelchair was invented, we do have a year for the first self-propelled wheelchair. It was invented in 1655 by Stephan Farfler (1633-1689), a paraplegic clock-maker of Nuremberg, Germany. 

Modern wheelchairs & mobility aids


The first wheelchair that resembles the ones we have today first appeared in the 18th century. Now, hundreds of years later, the development and usage of mobility aids, such as wheelchairs, have skyrocketed. 

Accessibility for mobility aids has also improved over the years. Healthcare programs, such as Medicaid, can cover costs. As public awareness grows regarding the importance of assistive tools, it’ll also help drive the innovation and development of mobility aids.