Assistive devices for mobility: Discernment of walkers and canes
Hittin' the pavement with a bit of help? Walkers and canes can be just the ticket for older adults or folks with disabilities dealing with some balance and mobility struggles. So, which one's right for ya? It all boils down to the level of support you need, your lifestyle, and your wallet.
Aging can tough on the body, and chronic conditionspack a punch when it comes to mobility. Every year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that older adults experience falls, and as we grow older, they can lead to some serious muscle and bone damage. That's where mobility aids come into play, helping folks maintain their independence and reducing the risk of falls.
Canes and walkers are designed to assist people with at least some mobility. Both offer support during movement, but the best choice for you depends on the support you need, your life's groove, and your budget.
Check out this quick comparison of walkers versus canes:
| Device | Pros | Cons | Conditions | Cost || --------------- | ------------------- | ------------------- | ------------------- | ------------- || 1-legged cane | -Balance assistance | -Minimal weight bearing | Mild balance issues | $10-$40 || 3-4 legged cane | -Extra balance | -Heavier | One-sided weakness | $15-$40 || Standard walker | -Stability | -Lifting required | Conditions affecting muscles or nerves | $20-$60 || 2-4 wheeled walker | -Easier movement | -Less stable | Issues affecting the spinal cord, conditions slowing down mobility | $35-$100 |
When should you use a cane or a walker?
-helps with balance-adjustable
Canes and walkers offer stability when navigating the world. For individuals with minor balance or stability issues, a cane might be just the ticket. And for those with more significant balance and mobility issues, a walker might be the ideal choice.
-for minimal weight bearing only-some have a curved handle that some may find difficult to grasp and cause pain, especially for people with joint or muscle conditions
A cane is typically held with one hand and can come with one to four legs. A multiple-legged cane offers greater stability, but its curved handle might be tough for some to grasp, causing pain for those with joint or muscle conditions.
-mild balance issues-mild to moderate arthritis of the lower limbs
On the flip side, a person who's had knee or hip replacement surgery or who has more severe balance issues might prefer the three-to four-legged device known as a walker.
$10-$40
For comfort, you can always add support for your wrists or arms to your cane or walker, and if needed, a number of different accessories, like wheels and brakes.
What kinds of walkers and canes are out there?
-offers greater help with balance than a standard cane-can bear more weight-adjustable
Standard canes tend to be made of wood or aluminum with a rubber tip and a hook-shaped or flat handle. While they're great for folks needing minimal assistance, they're not the best choice for those needing more support.
-heavier-more cumbersome-may be harder to use on stairs
Canes with three or four legs can stand independently, providing greater stability for people who experience pain on one side. Some multi-legged canes, known as "sit-to-stand" canes, even have a secondary grip, offering extra assistance for getting up or sitting down.
-one-sided muscle weakness (hemiparesis) or more significant issues with balance
When it comes to walkers, there are three main types: standard, two-wheeled, and four-wheeled.
$15-$40
- The standard walker has four rubber-tipped legs and offers more stability, requiring users to lift it with every step.
- The two-wheeled walker has front wheels and back sliders, making it easier to maneuver, but it's less stable and requires more cognitive effort.
- The four-wheeled walker (also called a rollator) is more stable and allows for a more natural gait, but it also requires coordination and can be heavy to move.
Is it better to use a walker or a cane?
-stable-foldable
Effective use of a cane depends on an individual's strength and coordination, while a walker is better for those with more significant balance impairments. When using a walker, users can distribute weight away from their lower body while moving, helping to reduce fatigue and boost confidence in mobility.
-no wheels-needs lifting with each step
Determining when to switch from a walker to a cane or vice versa requires considering factors like balance and mobility improvements, the individual's doctor's advice, and daily routine appropriateness.
-for conditions that affect the function of muscles or nerves or for fractures
Where to get a cane or a walker?
$20-$60
If you need a new mobility aid, you can find plenty of options online or at stores specializing in medical equipment. You can also seek assistance from your insurance company, non-profit organizations for seniors or individuals with disabilities, or a hospital or clinic.
How much does a cane or a walker cost?
-easier to move-may have a seat and basket for comfort
According to American Family Physician, a standard cane usually costs between $10 and $40, while walkers can range from $20 to $100.
-less stable than standard-not foldable
Medicare and Mobility Aids
-issues affecting the spinal cord, conditions that slow down mobility like heart or lung diseases
For those in the United States with Medicare, both walkers and canes are considered Durable Medical Equipment (DME). You can rent or buy a cane or walker through Medicare Part B if it's deemed medical necessary and needed for at-home use. A doctor accepting Medicare must write a prescription, and the device must be purchased from a Medicare-approved supplier.
$35-$100
Safety tips for canes and walkers
Safety's paramount when using any mobility aid. Ensure the handle is at wrist level and your arms remain relaxed when using a cane or walker. Keep your arms slightly bent while using the device and maintain an upright posture.
Cane safety
To help you stabilize with a cane, you should hold it with the hand opposite the injured or painful side when standing, and during walking, place the cane ahead, step forward with the painful or injured leg, and follow with the other leg.
When navigating stairs, always use the handrail and step up with the stronger leg first while holding the cane, and step down with the weaker leg first.
Walker safety
When using a walker, place it one step ahead, move the injured or painful leg to the middle, and then bring the stronger leg to meet it. This helps facilitate small, slow steps.
The safest way to sit down in a walker is by backing up to a chair, feeling for the seat, and taking your sweet time lowering yourself down. To stand up, push up forcefully with your arms and grip the walker's handgrips. Do not use the walker to lift yourself up, as it could potentially give way. It's generally best to avoid using a walker on stairs or escalators.
- Other senior health concerns, such as chronic conditions and medical-conditions, can lead to mobility issues as we age.
- Uncategorized factors, like lifestyle and budget, are essential considerations when choosing between walkers and canes.
- Specific drawbacks of canes include their limitation for minimal weight bearing and the potential discomfort caused by some handles for those with joint or muscle conditions.
- Using a cane or a walker can enable a decrease in the risk of falls and an increase in independence for older adults and individuals with disabilities.
- Credit lines, science, and health-and-wellness professionals recommend fitness-and-exercise, nutrition, and the use of mobility aids like canes and walkers for staying active and managing aging-related issues.
- CBD, a popular wellness supplement, may offer pain relief and inflammation reduction, potentially benefiting those using canes or walkers.
- Both walkers and canes have different types available, including standard, two-wheeled, and four-wheeled walkers, multiple-legged canes, and 'sit-to-stand' canes.
- To obtain a cane or a walker, options are available online or from stores that specialize in medical equipment, or one may seek assistance from insurance companies, non-profit organizations, or hospitals/clinics.
