Walkers with seats are especially useful for people who need regular rest breaks when walking due to fatigue or pain. Often a basket is also fitted under the seat for storage. Generally these walkers have four wheels therefore can’t be used for large amounts of weight bearing as they will roll away and may lead to a fall. Walkers with seats are ideal for people with high levels of functioning who walk long distances and need only minimal weight bearing.
These devices can significantly improve an individual’s ability to move independently within the community environment and participate in daily activities.. Some disadvantages of walkers are that they are difficult to move through doorways and crowded areas, and generally cannot be used on stairs. They also reduce normal arm swing and may result in abnormal posture while walking.
The wheels of seated walkers usually have a braking system that is controlled with the hands. The hand controls may need to be modified for people with one-sided weakness or arthritis. Other accessories may also be added to modify the function of the walker such as walking stick holders to allow a walking stick to be carried on the frame, carry baskets, and plastic trays to assist carrying light items such as food.
Relevant Links
References
Pedretti, L. 2001, Occupational Therapy : practice skills for physical dysfunction, Mosby, St Louis.
Sloan, H.L., Haslam, K. & Foret, C. 2001, ‘Teaching the use of Walkers and Canes’, Home Healthcare Nurse, vol. 19, no. 4, pp. 241-246.
Trombly, C.A. & Radomski, M.V. 2002, Occupational Therapy for Physical Dysfunction, 5th edn, Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins, Philadelphia.
Van Hook, F.W., Demonbreun, D. & Weiss, B.D. 2003, ‘Ambulatory Devices for Chronic Gait Disorders in the Elderly’, American Family Physician, vol. 67, no.8, pp.1717-1724.