Getting out and about
Getting out matters, for shopping, appointments, seeing friends, or just fresh air. When walking gets harder, there's help to keep going.
Walking sticks and frames
Some walking sticks and walking frames can be borrowed from the NHS. Ask a GP, physiotherapist, occupational therapist or hospital staff. There may be a small deposit. Make sure it's set to the right height.
If you'd rather buy one, walking sticks cost about £15 to £50 and walking frames about £40 to £200. The council may provide a walking frame free after a care needs assessment.
Wheelchairs
For an NHS wheelchair, ask a GP, physiotherapist, occupational therapist or hospital staff to refer the person to the local wheelchair service for an assessment. They may be eligible for a personal wheelchair budget.
Mobility scooters
Mobility scooters aren't generally available on the NHS. They cost from about £500 to more than £5,000, and some charities can help with the cost.
Free bus travel
- In England, you can get a free bus pass at State Pension age. In London, free travel on buses, the Tube and other transport starts at 60, within London.
- In Wales and Scotland, you can get a bus pass from 60.
Apply through GOV.UK, which takes you to the right council, or to the Scottish scheme. Disabled people may be able to get a bus pass sooner.
Parking and local transport
A Blue Badge lets you park closer to where you're going. See our Blue Badge guide. GOV.UK also has information about community transport and Shopmobility, for people who find ordinary buses or town centres hard to manage.
A carer can help with getting out too, from trips to the doctor to a walk to the shops. You can find self-employed carers near you.