Tips to Use a Mobility Walker Safely

As people grow older, several age-related issues may set in. They may pose problems like pain, balance issues, or others while walking - especially for long distances. Luckily, a mobility aid like a cane, mobility walker, rollator, or a wheelchair can help.

A wheelchair may also require mobility ramps along to help you move between various surfaces of differing heights easily. These mobility ramps also differ in types based on use, purpose, and ease of storage and transportation.

Though the best way to choose a mobility aid is always to approach a professional and seek sound medical advice, a walker is generally an ideal solution for individuals with no severe mobility restrictions. It not only provides more support than a cane does but also helps you overcome instability owing to balancing issues. Further, it generally doesn't require you to use mobility ramps alongside.

However, there are several safety tips you need to keep in mind while using a walker as below.

1. While Standing

Standing up with a walker is a little different than without it. So, while standing:

• Make sure to engage brakes.
• Sit on the edge of the seat as comfortably as you can.
• Keep your toes aligned with your seat edge.
• Place both hands on the walker or one hand on the walker and the other on the chair.
• Never put all your weight on the walker as it could cause it to move or tip over.
• Use arms only for that extra strength that your legs may not be able to provide while standing up.
• Never move forward without ensuring your stability.

2. Walking to New Areas

While exploring an unfamiliar terrain or area:

• Proceed slowly with caution until you know the area enough.
• Look out for anything - pets, debris, area rugs, holes, etc. that could be in the way. Look a little ahead of where you walk to anticipate uneven surfaces or hazards.
• Refrain from using your walker on an escalator.

3. While Turning Around

• Ensure that you are within the width of your walker.
• Move the walker with you as you turn while keeping your body parallel to the walker's front bar.
• Never twist your back as it could lead to a muscle pull or sprain.
• Always stay frontward while using it.

4. Know Your Limits

Just because you have a walker, never feel that you can walk for as long distances as you want.

Always know your tolerance capacity and honour them. Refrain from overstraining yourself and relax or sit down for small intervals as and when you need to.

5. Wear Appropriate Shoes

Always pay special attention to your footwear - especially in the rainy season. Non-slip sneakers or shoes are ideal in most of the cases as they can prevent you against slips and falls.

Even better, avoid going out in extreme winters or heavy monsoons, and consider walking indoors only.

6. Adjust Your Speed

Being able to walk by yourself is indeed a pleasure, but be watchful for the conditions where you walk. If it is slippery, snowy, or windy outside; at least alter your pace if you can't forgo walking outdoors (as mentioned earlier). This adjustment of pace will facilitate your safe walking.

Altering speed is also necessary when you walk in public with others. Avoid walking too close to people and maintain distance or else you may run into them if they stop abruptly. Also, ensure that you don't go too slow when walking and jam paths for others.

7. While Parking Your Walker

• Always park only in designated spots - not anywhere. Make sure that you only occupy only ONE spot - not two.

• Ensure that your walker doesn't block traffic.
• Ask for the assistance of a receptionist or attendant to park your walker in the right place while checking in a hotel, restaurant, or banquet.

8. Maintain Your Walker Properly

To ensure the longevity of the walker, conduct monthly inspections to check for any defects.

• Check the wheels and brakes in case you have a wheeled walker before every use.
• Make sure the wheels are clean and roll smoothly and that brakes are working properly.
• Replace rubber tips of walker's legs if you find them worn out.
• Never use a broken walker unless you get it repaired.

In a Nutshell

A mobility aid like a mobility walker is a great asset for people with mobility issues. However, to ensure its proper and optimum use, you can follow the above-mentioned tips.

Derry has been working in the mobility aids industry since 2003, acquiring a wealth of knowledge along the way. Before Essential Aids, Derry's background was in engineering. In his spare time he is a devotee of yoga and rare reggae vinyl.