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December 14, 2024 – A new study published in The Lancet Public Health highlights significant gender disparities in the use of mobility aids such as canes, walkers, and wheelchairs. Despite a higher prevalence of disability among women aged 50 and older, they are less likely than men to use these essential tools, even when they face mobility challenges.
The study, conducted by researchers from UCL and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, analyzed data from 12,080 participants aged 50–89 in the English Longitudinal Study of Aging. Over 13 years (2006–2019), 8,432 participants reported mobility difficulties. Among them, 61% experienced “unmet need,” meaning they did not use a mobility aid despite needing one, while 39% reported using such aids at least once.
Key findings revealed that women were 50% more likely than men to transition from not needing mobility aids to experiencing unmet need. Conversely, they were 20% less likely to move from unmet need to using an aid.
Gender Inequality in Mobility Aid Access
The research team pointed to cost barriers, design issues, and social stigma as potential reasons behind the gender gap. Lead author Jamie Danemayer explained, “Our analysis suggests a clear gender gap in access to mobility aids. Women often face additional challenges, such as income disparities and stigma related to disability visibility, which may discourage them from using these aids.”
Mobility aids are often designed with men in mind, which may contribute to their underuse among women. “Using mobility aids can make a disability visible, and women in particular may face increased safety concerns or stigma as a result,” Danemayer added.
Broader Implications of Unmet Need
The study also identified other demographics associated with a higher likelihood of needing mobility aids, including those with lower educational attainment, unemployment, or lower wealth. However, these groups were more likely to use aids if needed, further underscoring gender as a significant determinant of unmet need.
Professor Cathy Holloway, a co-author of the study, emphasized the broader consequences of unmet needs: “Not having access to mobility aids can severely impact independence, well-being, and quality of life. Women, regardless of socioeconomic status, are not getting the support they need. Addressing this issue requires urgent action.”
Recommendations for Policy and Design
The researchers called for inclusive, gender-sensitive approaches to assistive technology design and policy. Professor Shereen Hussein highlighted the need for structural changes, stating, “Cost, design bias, and social stigma disproportionately affect women. These barriers must be addressed to achieve equity in aging and disability policies.”
The study’s findings offer a foundation for policymakers to prioritize gender equity in public health initiatives, particularly in addressing the rising prevalence of disability among aging populations.
Further Reading:
Jamie Danemayer et al., Demographic, socioeconomic, and social barriers to use of mobility assistive products: a multistate analysis of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, The Lancet Public Health (2024). DOI: 10.1016/S2468-2667(24)00243-3
