Society is becoming more accepting of mobility aid users
London, England (PRWEB UK) 11 June 2014 -- A recent survey revealed that mobility product users are feeling more accepted by the general public.
The survey, conducted by Stair-Lift-Comparison.co.uk, asked 350 people who are dependent on mobility aids whether they feel negatively stereotyped in today’s society.
The results showed that 33% of users believe that there is still a stigma attached to owning a mobility aid, with mobility scooters attracting the greatest stigma.
One mobility product user said: "In spite of our 'modern and educated' society, there is a strong stigma attached to anyone who uses any form of mobility aid.
"There are still many shops, public houses, restaurants, etc. that do not cater for people with disabilities."
A parliamentary report shows that the number of UK citizens aged 65 and over will nearly double from the current 10 million to 19 million by the year 2050.
Age UK’s Charity Director General Michelle Mitchell has stated that: "This growing generation of people over the age of 85 is now redefining the nature of old age."
The survey showed that 81% of the people questioned believe that society has become more accepting of mobility aids; this is partly due to the increase in the number of mobility products, namely scooters, being used in public.
Jason Tate, Director of Stair-Lift-Comparison.co.uk, said: "I think it’s true to say that users often delay buying mobility aids due to the stigma attached.
"However it is human nature that the more familiar we become with something, the more accepting we are and I am glad to see that our results show that, society in general, is becoming more positive."
As the number of those over 65 in the UK increases it is predicted that the level of stigma mobility aids attract will decrease.
Gemma Harling, Receptional, http://www.receptional.com, +44 1525715520, [email protected]
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