Many people within the community need assistance for walking from either another person or the use of equipment. Mobility aids such as walkers and canes are a useful way of improving stability for people at risk of falling, and are often used as treatment for people who have walking difficulties. They assist to widen the base of support for the lower body and reduce weight bearing by transferring some of the weight onto the upper body.
These devices can significantly improve a person’s ability to move independently within the community environment and participate in many daily activities. They can reduce the reliance on services such as home care, and are especially useful for people who live alone with no-one to assist them with their mobility needs. Enabling people to stand can also enhance circulation, organ functioning, joint stability and range of motion.
New walker and cane designs are continually being developed, and most are adjustable to suit individual needs. Accessories can be fitted to walking devices to modify their function. Walkers and canes must be chosen appropriately, and adjusted to the correct height to ensure maximum benefit. Before purchasing a walking device consultation with a healthcare professional such as a physiotherapist or occupational therapist to ensure correct and safe use of the equipment is recommended. . If a walking device is not chosen correctly, poor walking may result, leading to increased unnecessary energy expenditure and a higher risk of falling (Pedretti 2001; Sloan, Haslam & Foret 2001; Trombly & Radomski 2002; Van Hook, Demonbreun & Weiss 2003).
Links to specific types of walkers and canes