Embracing Mobility Aids: Overcoming Stigma and Reclaiming Your Independence
by Taylin D. Ramirez
Using a mobility aid—whether it’s a cane, walker, scooter, or wheelchair—can feel like a big step. If you’ve ever hesitated to use one because of how it might look or what others might think, you're not alone.
But here’s the truth: using a mobility aid isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s a tool of strength. It means you’re choosing to support your body, protect your energy, and participate more fully in your life.
Let’s talk about what might be holding you back and how to shift the mindset from stigma to empowerment.
Recognize Internalized Stigma
Society has done a poor job of normalizing disability and chronic illness. From a young age, many of us are taught that needing help means something is "wrong" with us. That messaging is hard to shake.
You might feel:
Embarrassed by using a cane in public
Worried people will judge you or think you’re “faking”
Afraid you’re giving up by relying on a device
But here’s a reframe: You’re not giving up. You’re showing up—with the help your body needs.
Mobility Aids = Freedom, Not Limitation
Instead of thinking of mobility aids as a restriction, try to view them as a bridge to more freedom. Check out this article about various types of mobility aids.
Think about this:
You can go places without worrying if your body can keep up.
You can spend energy on joy instead of on pain or fear of falling.
You can say yes to more experiences because you feel more supported.
Mobility aids don’t limit your life—they expand it.
Normalize It Through Visibility
You might feel like “the only one” using a mobility aid, especially if you're younger or your disability is invisible. But the more we see and share stories, the less isolated we feel.
Try this:
Follow creators and advocates who proudly use mobility aids
Connect with online support groups for people with chronic illness or disability
Talk about your experiences with trusted friends and family
You’re part of a much bigger community than you realize.
Permit Yourself to Rest
Sometimes, the hardest part isn’t using the aid—it’s giving yourself permission to need it. Rest isn’t laziness. It's self-preservation. Rest is part of resilience, not the opposite of it.
Useful Affirmation
"Rest is not a reward—it's a necessity. I deserve to pause, restore, and care for myself without guilt."
Know You’re Not Alone
So many people wrestle with the same feelings. Whether it’s the fear of judgment, shame around needing help, or grief over changing abilities, it’s all valid.
Helpful resources:
Therapy to process internalized ableism and grief
Community forums (Reddit, Facebook, etc.) for shared experiences
Disability rights and advocacy groups
The more you share your story, the more you help others feel seen, too.
Focus on What You Gain
Instead of focusing on what using a mobility aid might take away, shift your attention to what it gives you. Check out this article about a woman whose mobility aids gave her freedom.
You gain: Energy, Safety, Autonomy, Confidence, and Participation in life on your terms!
That’s not a loss. That’s a win!
You Deserve to Move Through Life with Dignity
You deserve to show up in the world without shame. Using a mobility aid doesn’t change your worth—it supports your wholeness. The world may not always make space, but you get to claim it.
If you’re navigating the emotions and transitions that come with chronic illness or disability, make an appointment today. Therapy can help you process internalized stigma, build confidence, and embrace your independence. You don’t have to carry this alone.
