It’s common to have some trouble moving around as the years go by, and in some instances, seniors might be encouraged to use a walker to provide stability for continued independence. This does not mean they’ll take to the walker easily or even look forward to learning how to use it.
However, with the help of loved ones and home care, seniors can begin to see the benefits of a walker and learn how to use it to support their quality of life.
Choosing the Right Walker
Choosing the right walker is important for comfort and safety. Walkers come in various styles, such as traditional, two-wheeled, and four-wheeled. Also, it’s important to pay attention to things like the weight of the walker, the amount of weight it can withstand, and its height.
Why does this matter? Using a walker at the right height provides the most stability and comfort. Seniors can test if the walker is the right height by ensuring the handles are level with their wrists when their arms are at their sides. If the height is incorrect, the walker might be painful to use, so it’s essential to get the details right.
Encourage Seniors to Practice
As the saying goes, “Practice makes perfect.” Home care and loved ones can encourage seniors to use the walker in a safe place, like their own home or a quiet street in the neighborhood. They should start by walking short distances and eventually make their walks longer. In addition to walking, they should practice turning, moving around obstacles, and using any extra features the walker might have.
With home care by their side, they can be monitored while practicing to make sure they’re using the right form.
Maintain Good Balance
Speaking of using the right form, it’s important to stress good balance while using the walker. Seniors should stand up straight, with their shoulders back and their eyes forward. Encourage them not to slouch or lean too far on the walker, as this can hurt their back and shoulders.
Additionally, it is best to take small steps in a slow rhythm. Home care and loved ones can show them how to move the walker a little ahead of them and then step forward with their better leg first to gain the most support and ability to control balance.
Consider Upgrades for Walkers
Seniors may feel more stable and confident when they use assistive devices like gripping items made just for walkers. These aids can add extra support and comfort, particularly for seniors with arthritis or a weak grip.
It’s crucial for seniors to receive support from loved ones and home care while they get used to the walker. Remind them that getting used to the walker will take time, but the end goal is to ensure their safety and ability to stay in their own home. With time, they will be using the walker like it’s second nature and ready to take on the next challenge in their path.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Care in Grand Island, NE, please contact the caring staff at AmanaCare today. Call (402) 440-5878
AmanaCare Provides Senior Home Care Services in Lincoln, Kearney, Grand Island, North Platte, Hastings, Omaha, Columbus, Broken Bow, Scottsbluff, Norfolk, and surrounding areas.
Sources:
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/walker/art-20546805
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/15542-how-to-use-a-walker
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