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Real members of MyMSTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Mobility Items

A MyMSTeam Member asked a question 💭
Preston, UK

Hey, abit random but I thought id ask anyway. I recently purchased a mobilty scooter, is it normal or feel embarrassed to be using one?

Ive notcied that when it comes to mobilty scooters, stair lifts, bathroom equipment and wheelchairs there all advertised for elderly people. I think this is where the embarrassment comes in. Because you feel like you shouldn't be using equipment unless your older.

You never see younger adults on adverts or in magazines. Disabilty is not always visible, and I… read more

August 16 (edited)
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Answer Summary

Members rallied around the question of feeling embarrassed about using mobility items like scooters and wheelchairs, with the overwhelming... Read more

Members rallied around the question of feeling embarrassed about using mobility items like scooters and wheelchairs, with the overwhelming message being that if you need it, use it without shame. Several members shared personal experiences, including delaying the use of mobility aids and facing worsening health consequences as a result, and others noted they now rely on wheelchairs, lift chairs, and bathroom grab bars as normal parts of managing their condition. A recurring theme was that mobility equipment is simply part of living with chronic illness, and the community agreed that greater representation of younger and disabled people in advertising could help reduce the stigma.

A MyMSTeam Member

@A MyMSTeam Member I've just had to get a wheelchair to get around my doctors offices because of all the walking and overheating that I do. Doesn't embarrass me at all. If I need it then I'll use it. I also have a lift chair, and a bar in my shower and by the toilet to be able to get myself up easier. There is never a reason to be embrassassed using something that you need. It's just part of this disease that we have to go through.

August 16 (edited)
A MyMSTeam Member

The disabled community have always been marginalized since Biblical times !! so we need definitely need more education and knowledge to be given out , shown on tv to make people aware .
I try to go to the MS walks whenever they’re on Sunday since Saturday is the Sabbath and I have my date with God as He asked us.

August 16 (edited)
A MyMSTeam Member

@A MyMSTeam Member
I completely understand and can imagine how you feel. But if it helps it helps.
And I am glad that in the time we live in there are devices that can help. I can only imagine what it would be like to live in previous times without these things.

August 16 (edited)
A MyMSTeam Member

I recently broke a small bone in my foot before my toes, the markets in Texas are huge, like a mall. I am using the market automatic cart. I don't look at people, real eye contact, aside from the deli and cashier. I don't care to see if there are people are judging me.

August 16
MyMSTeam

Not random at all — this is such an important topic! Feeling embarrassed about using a mobility scooter is completely normal, and you are definitely not alone in feeling this way.

A MyMSTeam member shared a very similar experience, noting that mobility aids are almost exclusively marketed toward older generations. As a Show Full Answer

Not random at all — this is such an important topic! Feeling embarrassed about using a mobility scooter is completely normal, and you are definitely not alone in feeling this way.

A MyMSTeam member shared a very similar experience, noting that mobility aids are almost exclusively marketed toward older generations. As a younger person, seeing only seniors in those adverts can feel discouraging and even isolating. The good news is that using a mobility scooter isn't giving in — it's a smart, empowering choice that helps you stay active and engaged in daily life. Many people with MS have gone from dreading mobility aids to feeling genuine relief after using one.

One thing that really helped some people was turning to social media, where chronic illness communities showcase younger people using mobility aids confidently and stylishly. It can genuinely shift your perspective! Your point about representation is so valid. Disability isn't always visible, and the marketing world has a long way to go in reflecting that reality. Some people find it helps to personalise their mobility aid to make it feel more "them" — because why not look great while staying safe? 🙌

The most important thing is that your scooter is helping you live your life on your terms.

August 16

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