What is the best walking aid for the elderly? Unfortunately, certain ailments or physical conditions may restrict us Aids help us get back some of the physical freedoms once enjoyed when we were healthier. This can be a temporary or permanent solution, depending on the condition that restricts movement. Walking aids are made to help you improve balance, stability, and general limb weakness. Generally, mobility or walking aids can improve safety and freedom by reducing the risk of falls by allowing the users to move around with minimal help from a caregiver or family member
Many types of walking aids and mobility aids are available in the market to assist individuals who have difficulty moving about securely. Additionally, the probability of falls rises with increasing age, especially in the elderly. Also, each and subsequent fall in the elderly may pose increased health risks with increased frailty, a range of various walking aids have been designed to provide safety and support to people who require it.
In fact, there are so many mobility aids and walking devices on the market today. While there will be something to suit everyone’s needs, many people are still unsure where to begin! Crutches, walkers, and rollators are all part of an industry that originated with simple walking assistance like a walking stick (often referred to as a cane).
- Canes
Canes are perhaps the most common and standard type of walking aid a senior is likely to use. By the time most of us reach our seventies, our balance will be starting to falter and a cane can really help for stability whilst reducing strain on the legs and being an easy, portable device to keep around. Most canes come in a “standard” length of 36 inches, a great height for most, but one that can be adjusted to the user’s needs. If you ever feel at risk of falling, a cane can be very useful.
- Crutches
Crutches, like canes, take the weight from the legs and transfer some of it to the upper body instead. Crutches are commonly used by the elderly in pairs and are generally a lot more obstructive, awkward, and difficult to use than standard canes. They tend to be better as a temporary walking device, often used after a leg injury. However, once someone is considering a walking assistance device for long-term use, there are usually better options.
- Walkers
Walkers, also known as Zimmer frames, have metal frames with four legs. Sometimes they will have wheels on the two front legs to make forward movement easier. There are also different types of walkers, including 2-wheel walkers and rollator walkers (discussed at 4). Walkers provide more support and balance.
Sometimes it is hard, and the elderly feel discouraged going outside. With the right mobility walking aid, you can help them get outside and become more mobile and help them conquer their fear of falling. Safely navigating within and outside the home is critical. Even if a senior enjoys getting out of the house, they may not think the effort and preparation are worthwhile. When going out necessitates the assistance of another person or the use of a mobility aid such as a cane, embarrassment and irritation are prevalent.
If they have difficulty walking, work with them and an occupational or physical therapist to find the right mobility product to help them stay active. An occupational therapist is trained to provide comprehensive solutions for seniors with mobility challenges. Look for a device or walking aid that provides the support and stability they need and is easy to use and transport.
Walking aids can be viewed as a nuisance by many elders, yet they are designed to increase independence and safety. Make this point clear to guide them outside the home with the assistance of the best walking aid for them.
For help choosing the right walking aid, contact the friendly and knowledgeable team at JB Medical who have a range of walking mobility aids including a variety of options to suit different conditions, abilities, and personal requirements.