Crutches and Stick: Choosing the Right Aid for Mobility
Struggling with balance and mobility? Fear not! Assistive devices like canes and walkers can be your lifesaver. This guide will help you understand the differences, benefits, and practical uses of each to make an informed decision.
With age comes potential health challenges, and one common issue affecting older adults is mobility difficulties. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls are a significant concern in older age, often leading to severe muscle and bone injuries [1]. Assistive devices, such as canes and walkers, can help maintain independence and reduce the risk of falls.
Now, let's dive into the world of canes and walkers!
Navigating the Cane and Walker Realm
Canes:
Canes are great for those with mild balance issues, minor weakness in their legs or trunk, or simply recovering from an injury like arthritis. A person typically holds a cane with one hand, and its stability can be enhanced with ice grippers for slippery conditions [2].
-helps with balance-adjustable
There are two main types of canes:1. Single-legged cane: Offers minimal weight bearing support and becomes unstable on uneven terrain.2. Three/four-legged cane: Provides greater stability and weight availability but can be somewhat heavier and more cumbersome, especially on stairs.
-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
Some multi-legged canes have a secondary grip, making it easier to get up or sit down. Standard canes are usually made of wood or aluminum [2].
-mild balance issues-mild to moderate arthritis of the lower limbs
Walkers:
$10-$40
Walkers are designed for individuals with more substantial mobility challenges, such as significant balance issues or conditions affecting the function of muscles or nerves.
There are three types of walkers, each catering to different needs:1. Standard walker: Has rubber-tipped legs that provide stability, but requires lifting with each step.2. Two-wheeled walker: Offers excellent maneuverability, but is less stable and requires mental effort to handle.3. Four-wheeled walker (aka rollator): Allows a more natural gait and offers sturdier support, but is heavier and may require more coordination for navigation.
-offers greater help with balance than a standard cane-can bear more weight-adjustable
Which Medical Conditions require a Walker or Cane?
-heavier-more cumbersome-may be harder to use on stairs
Cane:
-one-sided muscle weakness (hemiparesis) or more significant issues with balance
Canes are typically recommended for individuals with minor mobility issues, such as arthritis or those recovering from minor surgeries. A doctor might suggest a cane instead of a walker when balance and strength are sufficient for steady, independent use.
$15-$40
Walker:
Walkers are preferable for more substantial mobility challenges like Parkinson’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, stroke recovery, peripheral neuropathy, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, spinal stenosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, congestive heart failure, and pulmonary fibrosis [1].
-stable-foldable
Choosing the Right Device for You
-no wheels-needs lifting with each step
Cost:
-for conditions that affect the function of muscles or nerves or for fractures
A standard cane usually costs between $10 and $40, while walkers range from $20 to $100.
$20-$60
DME and Medicare:
Both walkers and canes are classified under Durable Medical Equipment (DME) by Medicare. Medicare Part B covers the cost of renting or buying a cane or walker if it is deemed medically necessary for home use [1].
-easier to move-may have a seat and basket for comfort
Safety Tips for Using Canes and Walkers
-less stable than standard-not foldable
Regardless of the device you choose, safety should always be your first priority:
-issues affecting the spinal cord, conditions that slow down mobility like heart or lung diseases
Cane Safety:
$35-$100
- Hold the cane opposite the injured or painful side.
- Maintain an upright posture and relaxed arms.
- Place the cane ahead when stepping, follow with weaker leg, then the stronger one when walking up stairs.
- Place the cane down first when going down stairs, then the weaker leg, followed by the stronger one.
Walker Safety:
- Place the walker one step ahead, move the injured or painful leg to the middle, and bring the stronger leg forward when walking.
- When sitting, back up to the chair, feel for the seat, and lower yourself slowly while gripping the walker's handgrips.
- Avoid using a walker on stairs or escalators.
So, there you have it! Weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each device, and consult your healthcare provider to determine the best choice suited to your specific needs. Stay safe and get moving!
[1] American Family Physician. (n.d.). Help an Older Patient Choose a Cane or Walker. Retrieved from https://www.aafp.org/afp/2017/0315/p425.html
[2] Arizona Center on Aging. (20 September 2021). The Guide to Mobility Devices. Retrieved from https://arizonacenteronaging.org/the-guide-to-mobility-devices/
[3] CDC. (n.d.). Older Adult Falls. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/falls/
[4] Mayo Clinic. (11 February 2020). Mobility aids: Choosing the right assistive device. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/assistive-devices/art-20045682
[5] National Library of Medicine. (13 May 2021). Medical Conditions That Affect Mobility. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000934.htm
- For those with minor balance issues or recovering from arthritis, canes can help maintain independence and reduce the risk of falls, providing assistance with balance and adjustable height.
- In cases of more substantial mobility challenges, such as Parkinson's Disease or significant balance issues, walkers with rubber-tipped legs or four-wheeled walkers offer greater stability and weight support.
- Both canes and walkers can be categorized under Durable Medical Equipment (DME) by Medicare, and Medicare Part B may cover the cost if deemed medically necessary for home use.
- Choosing the right device depends on the individual's specific needs, considering factors such as balance, mobility, and chronic conditions like osteoarthritis or stroke recovery.
- Safety should always be the primary concern when using assistive devices; follow proper usage guidelines, such as placing the cane or walker ahead when stepping, maintaining an upright posture, and using them only on flat, even surfaces.
- Those with chronic diseases, aging, or medical conditions like heart or lung diseases may benefit from using a cane or walker to alleviate mobility difficulties and potentially decrease the risk of falls.
- To enable a senior to live a healthier life, it's essential to focus on health and wellness, including fitness and exercise, proper nutrition, and managing chronic diseases to improve overall quality of life as they age.
