The majority of people, who have difficulty walking with out assistance, do not need a wheelchair. You or your loved one may just have balance problems, arthritis, joint pain, or difficulty breathing. Here are some things to know about elderly walkers they can use in place of a motorized scooter or wheelchair.
The basic model has no wheels on it and so the person using it has to lift it and move it forward. On the opposite end of the spectrum is a model with a wheel on each of the four legs. Because it moves forward easily, it is best if the person using has balance enough to not lean on it. Leaning on the four wheel style can cause a fall. Another type has a wheel on the two front legs, allowing easy movement. The lack of wheels on the back legs helps to prevent falls. If choosing the two wheel style, be certain there are rubber tips on the back legs to prevent slippage.
Selecting the correct grip will prevent pain from stress on the joints. Choose a large size if you have trouble grasping items with your fingers. If your hands get sweaty, a soft foam style will work best. Also, make certain it is attached securely to avoid falls.
The next thing to consider is the fit. Adjust the walker so that the elbow bends comfortably when moving forward. Also, when moving with the equipment, the wrist should be even with the top bar. Check to make certain the person is standing upright while moving forward and is walking into the space inside the walker and not behind it. Another thing to always remember is to never climb stairs or steps with it.
The use of available accessories will also allow the user more freedom. A seat and basket can be added to the model which will make visiting, shopping, or sightseeing a joy. An added food tray that fits securely across the top of the walker makes it possible for the person using it to take their snacks or meals from the kitchen to the table, at a buffet, or a picnic.
A walker is not for use only by people over a certain age and it is not a sign that the person is helpless. People of all ages have neurological issues, musculoskeletal, or problems with balance which makes it difficult to walk without assistance. People with breathing restrictions, heart disease, or fatigues easily also benefit from use of a walker.
There is one thing to keep in mind and that is falls are still possible while using this equipment. So take a few precautions. Do not wear slick or smooth bottom shoes, make certain there are no obstacles in the area that can be tripped over or bumped into. And check the rubber tips on the legs without wheels.
Any person who has difficulty getting around or wants more mobility will benefit from using elderly walkers. Once purchased, adjust the height properly to avoid adding pressure to the joints and to avoid falls. Accessories such as a food tray, seats, and baskets are also available. The use of this aide will help a person maintain and increase their mobility. The exercise they will get being physical active will also benefit their overall health.
The basic model has no wheels on it and so the person using it has to lift it and move it forward. On the opposite end of the spectrum is a model with a wheel on each of the four legs. Because it moves forward easily, it is best if the person using has balance enough to not lean on it. Leaning on the four wheel style can cause a fall. Another type has a wheel on the two front legs, allowing easy movement. The lack of wheels on the back legs helps to prevent falls. If choosing the two wheel style, be certain there are rubber tips on the back legs to prevent slippage.
Selecting the correct grip will prevent pain from stress on the joints. Choose a large size if you have trouble grasping items with your fingers. If your hands get sweaty, a soft foam style will work best. Also, make certain it is attached securely to avoid falls.
The next thing to consider is the fit. Adjust the walker so that the elbow bends comfortably when moving forward. Also, when moving with the equipment, the wrist should be even with the top bar. Check to make certain the person is standing upright while moving forward and is walking into the space inside the walker and not behind it. Another thing to always remember is to never climb stairs or steps with it.
The use of available accessories will also allow the user more freedom. A seat and basket can be added to the model which will make visiting, shopping, or sightseeing a joy. An added food tray that fits securely across the top of the walker makes it possible for the person using it to take their snacks or meals from the kitchen to the table, at a buffet, or a picnic.
A walker is not for use only by people over a certain age and it is not a sign that the person is helpless. People of all ages have neurological issues, musculoskeletal, or problems with balance which makes it difficult to walk without assistance. People with breathing restrictions, heart disease, or fatigues easily also benefit from use of a walker.
There is one thing to keep in mind and that is falls are still possible while using this equipment. So take a few precautions. Do not wear slick or smooth bottom shoes, make certain there are no obstacles in the area that can be tripped over or bumped into. And check the rubber tips on the legs without wheels.
Any person who has difficulty getting around or wants more mobility will benefit from using elderly walkers. Once purchased, adjust the height properly to avoid adding pressure to the joints and to avoid falls. Accessories such as a food tray, seats, and baskets are also available. The use of this aide will help a person maintain and increase their mobility. The exercise they will get being physical active will also benefit their overall health.
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