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Walking aids for seniors - our recommendations
Walking aids: difficulties with the gait function
There are many people who face challenges in regards to aging. In addition, about 1/3 of all 65 year olds suffer at least one fall per year. Of those who fall, half are subject to repeated falls, of which about 5% end in serious injury. This is not due to a single factor, but usually due to a combination of several factors. Increasing age, disability due to a stroke or other diagnoses, and certain environmental factors. Some examples of these factors may be a slippery surface, thresholds or objects on the floor or on the stairs.
Therefore, it is good to know which aids are available for seniors. Walking aids for seniors that make it easier to stay active while helping to prevent falls and allow you to continue living in your own home.
We know that exercise is good for your body and health. Physical activity prevents dementia and many other health related problems. Research shows that exercise can indeed play a key role in enabling people to live a healthy life.
The health benefits of physical activity are manifold, such as the prevention of illnesses and injuries as well as preventing mental health issues. But that does not have to be the goal of the training itself. For many, enjoying the activity together with others is the biggest driving force. This experience improves the quality of life and improves the health overall.
Therefore, we recommend that the walking aids for seniors are used to keep them as active as possible, so that they can continue to actively participate in social activities and maintain their gait function and quality of life. However, not all walking aids are good for the body and the health.
Good walking aids will help you to continue performing difficult tasks without doing the work for you.
Research has shown that the use of some aids more than inhibits the health of older people. Therefore, it is important to find the right walking aids to help you meet the challenges you face in everyday life.
Here are some suggestions from us if you have difficulties walking:
Walking aids - crutches
Crutches are especially beneficial for those who need help walking, especially during rehab. For example, many people use crutches after a hip fracture, where rehabilitation shows to be usually very effective. During rehabilitation, it is important to take responsibility for what the body needs to regain control of one's body. This is done in collaboration with physical and occupational therapists to help find the right methods. They should also motivate the patients to use their bodies.
There are many different types of crutches. It is important that you find crutches that are comfortable for you and that can support you for a longer period. It is advisable to choose crutches that are height adjustable, dampened and padded. There are crutches that support you on the forearm, armpit or wrist. There are also crutches where you can put down your knee or shin, leaving your arms and your hands free.
In any case, it is advisable that you seek advice from your therapist to find what works best for you.
And last but not least: Do not forget the ice claws for your crutches and spikes for your shoes, if you want to avoid a fall on ice!
Walking aids - rollator
You will find many rollators on the streets - for a good reason! |
Rollators serve as support on long or short distances. If you need a little rest, you can sit on the rollator or you can transport your shopping bags home. Also, the rollator can be used indoors as well as outdoors and is a great way to stay active when you're struggling with restricted mobility. You can use the brake at any time so you can take a break without the rollator rolling away.
If you need a rollator, you should think about what factors are important to you, as there are a variety of options. For example, do you need a retractable rollator that you can load into the car, or a bag or tray to carry things when you're on your way home? Do you need a lamp and a bell when you whiz through the streets? It's a good idea to think about what can be useful to you and make the right choice. Having a rollator makes it easier to get out and continue to engage in social activities without your walking restrictions stopping you.
Walking aid - stair walker AssiStep
If you have stairs in your house, you can use the stair climbing aid AssiStep. AssiStep is a walking aid for stairs which consists of a handle, which is moved along the rail system. AssiStep provides support and safety when climbing stairs, so you can climb the stairs at your own pace. This is a great way to make your own home accessible so you do not have to confine yourself to one floor or install a stairlift. Choosing safer solutions that simultaneously contribute to activity and exercise in your own home has great health benefits. Did you know, for example, that physical activity helps reduce the risk of dementia?
