{"id":8382,"date":"2017-07-06T20:50:12","date_gmt":"2017-07-06T20:50:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.salushomecare.com\/san-gabriel-valley\/?p=8382"},"modified":"2020-08-20T21:20:33","modified_gmt":"2020-08-20T21:20:33","slug":"choosing-a-walker-for-a-senior-loved-one","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.salushomecare.com\/san-gabriel-valley\/blog\/choosing-a-walker-for-a-senior-loved-one\/","title":{"rendered":"Choosing a Walker for a Senior Loved One"},"content":{"rendered":"

A walker is an important piece of equipment that helps some seniors to feel more secure while standing or ambulating. This supports independence, safety and a higher quality of life. When a walker is necessary, some seniors have a difficult time accepting this fact and using it. They might purchase a walker only to have it sit in a box unopened or collect dust in the corner.<\/p>\n

Picking the Right Walker<\/h2>\n

If your loved one is having a difficult time accepting that they need a walker, buying the right walker can help. In most cases, it is better not to simply walk into a store and pick up the first walker you see. Talk to a doctor or physical therapist<\/a> to find a walker that properly matches your loved one\u2019s needs.<\/p>\n

Customized Features<\/h2>\n

You also might want to consider some of the customized features that make a walker easier and more comfortable to use.<\/p>\n

Height<\/h2>\n

Pick a walker with adjustable height so you can adjust it properly for your loved one\u2019s size. A 5\u20192\u201d woman needs a different height walker than a 5\u201911\u201d man. A good measure to use is that the top of the walker should line up to your loved one\u2019s wrists when their arms are at their side. If you purchase the wrong one, it probably won\u2019t fit right. This can turn the device into more of a hindrance than a help.<\/p>\n

Width and Foot Placement<\/h2>\n

Your loved one\u2019s feet should not be at the front bar of the walker. Instead, you want them properly lined up so that the senior’s\u00a0feet are between the back legs of the walker. Some walkers offer widths that are adjustable. This makes it easier to keep proper alignment and placement especially if the senior is very large or very small.<\/p>\n

Grips<\/h2>\n

Most walkers come with plastic grips, but fleece, foam and other soft coverings are also available. Consider which is most comfortable for your loved one to grip without having their hands slip. This choice is very individual, and the senior may have to try out a couple of options before finding the one that works for them.<\/p>\n

Wheels<\/h2>\n

Walkers are also available with rear wheels and front glides or wheels on all four legs. Wheels on all four legs can help the walker to move smoothly, but the senior needs the upper and lower body strength to manage it. If the senior does not have proper control over the walker, it can increase the risk of falls. Talk to a physical therapist to gauge which is best for your loved one.<\/p>\n

Other Accessories<\/h2>\n

Additional accessories that make a walker easier to use and more convenient include seats and baskets. A seat provides your loved one with a place to take a break from walking or standing whenever they need to. A basket gives them a place to store belongings so that their hands are free for proper support and walker use.<\/p>\n

Proper Use<\/h2>\n

Once your loved one has the walker, it is important that they learn how to use it properly. Improper walker use increases the risk of falls for seniors. Typically, the older they get, the higher the risk. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention offers the following guidelines:<\/p>\n