By Brittney McMahan
As May unfolds, so does National Mobility Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about mobility challenges and advocating for greater accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Powered by the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA), this movement highlights the importance of inclusive transportation options and celebrates the achievements of those who overcome mobility barriers.
For individuals with disabilities, mobility is more than just physical movement—it's about independence and freedom. Accessible transportation is not just a convenience, but a necessity in empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives by enabling them to work, socialize, and engage in their communities easily. Whether through adaptive vehicles, mobility aids, or public transportation accommodations, accessible mobility solutions are a lifeline that enhance quality of life and foster greater inclusion.
STATISTICS:
United States and Canada (Mobility)
• Over 18 million people in the United States and Canada have mobility issues.
• Six million of the 18 million people are veterans.
• There are nearly 18,000 new spinal cord injuries each year in the United States.
• Mobility challenges are the most common disability among older Americans.
• 11.1% of U.S. adults have a mobility disability with serious difficulty walking or climbing stairs.
• A stroke reduces mobility in more than half of stroke survivors ages 65 and older.
United States and Canada (Disability)
• 61 million adults in the United States live with a disability.
• Canada is home to 6.2 million people with one or more disabilities.
• 36% of people 65 and older reported at least one disability.
• 27% (one in four) of adults in the United States have some disability.
• 22% (one in five) people ages 15+ in Canada identify with having a disability.
• Caregivers spend 24 hours per week assisting their loved ones.
Case managers advocate for individuals with mobility challenges in healthcare and social services. They are pivotal in coordinating care, navigating complex systems, and connecting individuals with resources that promote independence and mobility. National Mobility Awareness Month allows case managers to underline the importance of accessible transportation and collaborate with stakeholders to address mobility barriers effectively.
As you engage with your clients this month, we encourage you to reflect on the transformative power of mobility and the vital role you play in facilitating access and independence. By embracing a client-centered approach and leveraging your expertise, you have the potential to empower individuals to reclaim their freedom and pursue their goals with confidence.
To learn more about National Mobility Awareness Month and how to get involved, check out Mobilityawarenessmonth.com.
If you are looking to contact a mobility dealer near you or one of your clients, check out the dealer locator.
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Bio: Brittney McMahan currently serves as the Manager of Communications & Social at the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA), an Affiliate partner of CMSA.