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Thursday, December 14, 2017

A Rolling Walker Can Mean The Difference Between Independence And Assisted Living

By Marie Bailey


Everyone wants to be as independent as possible for as long as possible. It is also important to be safe and realistic. At some point it may become necessary to decide if it is time to get help, whether is of the equipment or human variety. A rolling walker can be a godsend for an older person who has temporary or permanent issues that make independent mobility difficult or dangerous.

Walkers can be helpful for people of all ages. Painful surgeries and accidents can leave individuals virtually incapacitated without the aid of special equipment. Arthritis sufferers have days when getting up and down is difficult. Older people who live by themselves often develop a fear of falling. Others have inner ear problems that can affect their balance.

There are several different kinds of walkers on the market, and you will have to decide which is best for your situation. If you have trouble putting weight on your legs, you probably need the kind without wheels. For those who use walkers because they tire easily or have limited endurance, the wheeled ones usually do well.

You can find walkers for sale at pharmacies, big box stores, and online. You can also purchase one from medical equipment stores, which is usually the best idea. These stores normally have a wide selection and personnel that is knowledgeable and will be able to help you choose the right model for your situation. You can also rent walkers or buy them used and reconditioned. Those eligible for financial assistance may be required to purchase from specific stores.

It may take some practice before you are comfortable using your equipment. Those using rollators often find the biggest adjustment is remembering to engage the brakes. If the rollator moves unexpectedly you, and those around you, could suffer an injury. The brakes have to be locked when you are using the walker to stand. Even with the brakes in place, you still can't put your total weight on it, or you will tip it over.

If you try to sit and put all your weight on the equipment, it can tip. The best idea is to put as much weight as possible on your legs and use your arms to balance. Instead to twisting around to see where the chair is, you should back up until it touches your legs. Once you are up against the chair, it should be safe to sit down.

You should never try to turn sideways while you are in the process of sitting or standing. Walkers need to be at a comfortable distance from the body. Standing too close or too far away can lead to a serious accident. Walkers are not meant to be ridden. You cannot sit on the seat and have someone wheel you around without risking injury to yourself and damage to the equipment.

Most people would rather not use walkers at all. Under certain circumstances, they can be extremely helpful however. If you are serious about getting around on your own, a good walker may be your best bet.




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