Aging brings with it many difficulties. The body becomes less efficient at repairing its little hurts, muscles are less forgiving of strain and bones are more brittle. Just at a point in life when falling becomes most dangerous, the body's sense of balance also fails. This makes the proper use of mobility aids vital for those crossing the threshold into senior citizenship.
Advances have resulted in an abundance of products to aid any degree of mobility problem, which is good news for both older people and those who assist in their care. Unfortunately, the extent of options can be daunting if you're new to the subject. The two main types of mobility aids for those who are still able to stand and move on their own are canes and walkers.
When you can still walk but have balance difficulties and need occasional support, a cane will help keep you moving safely. Basic canes can be found in pharmacies and department stores, while canes to fit more specified needs are available through medical supply stores or online. While a doctor's advice is the best help for choosing a cane that suits your situation, a few pointers can help narrow down your choices. Cane choices vary according to materials, handle types and special options.
Most canes are made of either wood or metal. Wooden canes have a classic appearance and are available in a variety of wood types, grains and finishes, either plain or carved decoratively. They are, unfortunately, heavier than their metal counterparts. The lightest and sturdiest canes are of carbon fiber, but aluminum canes are cheaper and still lightweight.
The choice of handle type is not merely aesthetic but also quite practical. Classic crook handles are easy to find and can be hooked over an arm or rail when the cane is not needed. However, they can also be painful for arthritic hands to grip.
Derby canes have an elegant appearance and support the user's weight more easily, but kinder still on painful joints are offset handles, especially those with gel padding.
Ball grips are a stylish statement, while palm handles are possibly the easiest for arthritic hands to grasp.
Present-day canes are not limited to sticks with curved handles and rubber tips. Many aluminum canes fold for convenience when they are not needed. One new model even folds up into a bag that has a shoulder strap and pockets for carrying other small essentials.
Quad canes have four small legs instead of a single tip so that they can stand alone and provide the most stability a cane can offer.
For those who need greater support and are willing to sacrifice some portability, walkers have many benefits. A basic walker generally consists of an aluminum frame with rubber-capped feet, is sturdy and folds for easy storage. Casters on the feet make movement easier for those who have enough control.
Top-of-the-line walkers have both wheels and brakes and often include a convenient seat for occasional rests, with storage beneath for purses, jackets, umbrellas or other items.
While a doctor's advice is preferable, knowledge of the options and a brief analysis of your needs should allow you to make a suitable choice in mobility aids.