July 27, 2023 3 min read
Foldable walking frames or walkers are among the best mobility devices that help elderly persons to get around safely and independently. However, learning to use one correctly takes some practice, and the movements are not always as intuitive as it seems. More importantly, incorrect usage increases the risk of falling or developing body strain. If your ageing parents or relatives have recently purchased a new walker, this article will explain how they can use the mobility device safely and enjoy greater independence.
1. Adjust the walker to the proper height
Ensure that the walker is suitable for the user's height to reduce stress on their back and shoulders when walking. Ideally, your healthcare professional or physical therapist can provide guidance on how to make these adjustments. If this is not accessible to you, you can adjust the height on your own. To determine the right height, look out for these:
2. Walking safely with support from the walker
Learning the correct movements when using a walker is key to improving an older adult's mobility without compromising safety. This may take some practice at the start but eventually come more naturally. Here are the key steps:
3. Standing or sitting with a walker
Learning to sit and stand correctly with a walker is an important skill that helps prevent unexpected slips and falls. When sitting down, the user should move back until their legs touch the seat and then use their hands to feel behind the chair arms before slowly lowering themselves into a sitting position.
When standing up, the user can hold onto the armest of the chair or sofa, push themselves up to a standing position, then hold on to the walker's handles to move forward. During this process, they should avoid pulling or tilting the walker to help them stand up.
Essential do's and don'ts for walker safety
Do
Don't
Conclusion
While it may seem like walkers are easy enough to use, it takes a bit of practice to use them correctly in a way that avoids the risks of falling. We hope these tips above will allow you to get the best out of your walker and ensure your loved ones feel safe and remain independent.
If you are looking for other mobility aids or eldercare equipment, look no further than The Golden Concepts. We provide a wide range of quality mobility aids and home furniture such as wheelchairs, walking canes, rollators, and transfer aids such as lift chairs for the elderly which encourage independence and safety. To find out more about our eldercare products, don't hesitate to reach out to us any time.
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