Walking Aids Selection: Understanding When to Use Walkers and Canes
Wanna chat about walkers and canes? Here's the lowdown on these badboys, perfect for those needing a bit of support to stay mobile.
Sure, as we get older, it's only natural that our bodies start to feel the wear and tear. Some of us may develop conditions that affect our mobility, like the annual fall fesit sponsored by Mother Nature. Ouch! But hey, don't fret, as we've got options to help you maintain independence and reduce the risk of falls.
Canes and walkers, two faithful companions to aid the journeys of those with some balance and mobility issues. The decision between them all comes down to the required level of support, lifestyle, and, of course, budget.
Now, let's dive a bit deeper into these lifesavers, shall we?
Canes vs. Walkers: What Give?
Here's a quick rundown of the pros, cons, ideal conditions, and costs for these two empowering devices:
-helps with balance-adjustable
| Mobility Aid | Pros | Cons | Ideal Conditions | Cost ||---------|-------|-------|--------------|-------|| 1-legged cane | Lightweight, helps with balance, adjustable for different users. | Supports minimal weight-bearing only, some users may find curved handles uncomfortable. | Mild balance issues, mild to moderate arthritis. | $10-$40 || 3-4 legged cane | Offers better balance, can handle more weight. | Heavier, more cumbersome to use, harder to manage on stairs. | One-sided muscle weakness or more significant balance issues. | $15-$40 || Standard walker | Stable, foldable, less cumbersome. | Requires lifting with each step, doesn't have wheels. | Conditions affecting muscles or nerves, fractures. | $20-$60 || 2-4 wheeled walker | Easier to move, may have a seat and basket for comfort. | Less stable, not foldable, more hardware to maintain. | Issues affecting the spinal cord, slow mobility diseases like heart or lung diseases. | $35-$100 |
-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
Walk this way or Can I get a one-legged pogo stick?
-mild balance issues-mild to moderate arthritis of the lower limbs
Canes can lend a helpful hand to folks dealing with minor balance problems, weakness in their legs, or even some pain from conditions like arthritis. In general, a person can use one hand to hold a cane and adjust the number of legs depending on their needs.
$10-$40
Members of our aging community would be better off with a walker if they've had a total knee or hip replacement, or if they're battling more significant balance and mobility issues. Walkers typically require both hands to use and provide greater support overall.
To make things comfier, you can add various accessories to both canes and walkers, like wrist or arm supports, wheels, or brakes.
-offers greater help with balance than a standard cane-can bear more weight-adjustable
The Evolution of Canes and Walkers
-heavier-more cumbersome-may be harder to use on stairs
Just like life, canes and walkers have evolved over the years. Standard canes are usually made of wood or aluminum and have a rubber tip and either a hook-shaped or flat handle. For those needing a little more support, three- or four-legged canes are available that can bear more weight and offer greater stability.
-one-sided muscle weakness (hemiparesis) or more significant issues with balance
When it comes to walkers, there are three main types: the standard walker, the two-wheeled walker, and the four-wheeled walker (or rollator). Each caters to different needs and preferences.
$15-$40
- Standard walkers boast four rubber-tipped legs for maximum stability, but require lifting with each step.
- Two-wheeled walkers have front wheels and backsliders, making them easier to maneuver but less stable.
- Four-wheeled walkers (rollators) allow a natural gait and often include features like brakes, a seat, and a basket.
Making the Switch: Canes vs. Walkers
-stable-foldable
Deciding whether to switch from a walker to a cane, or vice versa, depends on several factors:
-no wheels-needs lifting with each step
- Has your or your loved one's balance improved or worsened?
- Has your or your loved one's endurance and strength improved or worsened?
- What does the doctor recommend?
- Is your or your loved one's daily routine more appropriate for a cane or a walker?
-for conditions that affect the function of muscles or nerves or for fractures
If you're still unsure, don't shy away from reaching out to a healthcare provider for guidance.
$20-$60
Where to Score a Canes or Walkers
You can score your preferred mobility aid directly from a supplier, through your insurance company, at a clinic or hospital, or even from a non-profit organization for older adults or people with disabilities.
-easier to move-may have a seat and basket for comfort
Budget Matters
-less stable than standard-not foldable
According to American Family Physician, canes generally cost between $10 and $40, while walkers tend to be a bit pricier, ranging from $20 to $100.
-issues affecting the spinal cord, conditions that slow down mobility like heart or lung diseases
DME and Medicare
$35-$100
Medicare considers walkers and canes as Durable Medical Equipment (DME) and covers them for home use if they're medically necessary and prescribed by a doctor accepting Medicare.
Using Canes or Walkers Safety
No matter which device you choose, ensure the handle is at a comfortable wrist level with relaxed arms and maintain a slightly bent posture while using it.
For cane safety, hold the cane with the hand opposite the injured or painful side, and place it ahead while walking, with the painful or injured leg taking the step first.
When using a walker, place it one step ahead, step the injured or painful leg to the middle, then bring the stronger leg to meet it. The safest way to sit or stand is to use a chair and not the walker itself.
So, Choose Wisely, Wander Adventurously!
Chronic conditions may creep up as we age, but don't fret, my friend; with the right support, you can conquer the world!
- While canes are ideal for those with mild balance issues or mild to moderate arthritis, walkers are more suited for individuals who've had a total knee or hip replacement, or those fighting more significant balance and mobility issues.
- For those needing additional assistance, three- or four-legged canes are available that offer greater stability and support more weight than standard canes.
- Walkers can be further categorized into standard walkers, two-wheeled walkers, and four-wheeled walkers (or rollators), each catering to different needs and preference.
- When deciding between a cane and a walker, factors such as improved or worsened balance, endurance, and doctor's recommendations should be considered.
- Both canes and walkers can be purchased from suppliers, insurance companies, clinics, hospitals, or even non-profit organizations for older adults or people with disabilities. Medicare may cover them if they're medically necessary and prescribed by a doctor.
