Technology to help you get out and about

Staying connected and getting out and about are important for maintaining a fulfilling life. However, age-related changes like limited mobility, safety concerns, and navigating public transport can make venturing out feel daunting.

Common scenarios and concerns	Lifestyle and equipment options to help you
Limited mobility: Difficulty walking long distances or navigating uneven terrain can restrict outings. This can lead to reduced social interaction, isolation, and frustration.	Electric mobility scooters: Provide motorised transportation for those with limited walking ability. GPS navigation apps: Help plan accessible routes and avoid obstacles
Safety concerns: Feeling unsafe while navigating unfamiliar places or experiencing falls can lead to anxiety and hinder independence. This can lead to reduced confidence and a reluctance to venture out.	Medical alert systems: Offer immediate help in case of emergencies. Personal GPS trackers: Allow loved ones to monitor your location for added peace of mind.
Difficulties using public transport: Complex schedules, crowded buses, and unclear signage can make using public transport challenging. This can lead to limited access to destinations and dependence on others.	Real-time travel apps: Provide up-to-date information on bus schedules and delays. Contactless payment systems: Simplify ticket purchases and eliminate the need to handle cash.

Common scenarios and concerns

Lifestyle and equipment options to help you

Limited mobility: Difficulty walking long distances or navigating uneven terrain can restrict outings.

This can lead to reduced social interaction, isolation, and frustration.

Electric mobility scooters: Provide motorised transportation for those with limited walking ability.

GPS navigation apps: Help plan accessible routes and avoid obstacles

Safety concerns: Feeling unsafe while navigating unfamiliar places or experiencing falls can lead to anxiety and hinder independence.

This can lead to reduced confidence and a reluctance to venture out.

Medical alert systems: Offer immediate help in case of emergencies.

Personal GPS trackers: Allow loved ones to monitor your location for added peace of mind.

Difficulties using public transport: Complex schedules, crowded buses, and unclear signage can make using public transport challenging.

This can lead to limited access to destinations and dependence on others.

Real-time travel apps: Provide up-to-date information on bus schedules and delays.

Contactless payment systems: Simplify ticket purchases and eliminate the need to handle cash.

Technology for navigating the great outdoors

Here are some technological solutions to overcome challenges faced while getting out and about:

Electric mobility scooters: These offer a comfortable and convenient mode of transport for individuals with limited walking ability. They can be used on pavements and cycle paths, allowing you to explore further and stay connected.
GPS navigation apps: Utilise apps like Google Maps to plan accessible routes that avoid stairs, steep inclines, or uneven surfaces. These apps also provide real-time directions and traffic updates, making navigation easier.

Equipment and aids to help enjoy the outdoors

Feeling safe and secure is essential for enjoying your outings. Here's how technology can help:

Medical alert systems: These wearable devices allow you to call for immediate help in case of a fall, a medical emergency, or feeling unsafe. This can provide peace of mind for both you and your loved ones.
Personal GPS trackers: Consider wearing a GPS tracker that allows your family or carers to monitor your location in real-time. This can be particularly helpful if you tend to wander or get lost in unfamiliar surroundings.

Making public transport accessible and user-friendly

Public transport can be a convenient way to explore different areas of Plymouth.

Real-time travel apps: Utilise apps like Plymouth Citybus to access up-to-date bus schedules, track bus arrival times, and plan your journey efficiently. These apps can also highlight any delays or disruptions to services.
Contactless payment systems: Many public transport operators now offer contactless payment options or travelcards. This eliminates the need to handle cash and simplifies the boarding process.

Additional things to consider

Plan your outings in advance: Research accessible routes, check bus schedules, and identify places to rest if needed.
Dress comfortably and appropriately: Wear layered clothing for variable weather and comfortable shoes for walking.
Pack essentials: Carry a water bottle, snacks, medications, and a phone charger, especially on longer outings.
Don't hesitate to ask for help: Bus drivers, shop assistants, or other passengers are usually happy to assist you if you need directions or help boarding a bus.

Where to buy equipment to help you get out and about

Plymouth City Council, NHS Devon, and Livewell Southwest have jointly commissioned NRS Healthcare to deliver the Safe+Well service, and they have over 2,500 daily living aids that you can purchase by mail order, telephone, or online.

View the Plymouth Safe+Well website

NRS has a dedicated phone line with a trained team of specialists who can answer any questions you might have. Just call 0345 6461860.

Other places to buy equipment from:

Free assessment tool: Select the area of difficulty that is relevant to you. You will then be asked a few questions to guide you towards helpful daily living aids.
Free telephone advice line: Complete the online form, and we will contact you to arrange a convenient time to call.