What Are The Best Safety Tips On How To Use A Walker for Seniors?

If you are a senior and you have been considering getting one of those rollator walkers, chances are that you don’t want to fall. You’re not alone. Many seniors are wary about using this type of mobility device because they think it will make them feel less stable than a regular walker or cane.

Here are the best safety tips for seniors on how to use a walker:

1. Types Of Walkers

Different walkers are suited to different needs and abilities. For example, there are folding walkers which can be stored away when not in use and then easily transported, and then there are upright rigid walkers which provide more stability for people who have lost some of their balance. 

2. Look for The Perfect Height of the walker

One of the biggest mistakes that seniors make is buying a walker that is too tall for them. Seniors tend to trip and fall because they are not able to use their walkers properly. The best thing would be to get a walker that is at least 4-inches shorter than your height. Seniors who are 5’2″ should try and buy a walker that is around 5’6″-5’8″ and taller people should get one that is 6′-6’2″.

3. Don’t Put All Your Weight on the Rollator

There are many people that use walkers who will put all of their weight on the rollator. Whether they be seniors who have bad knees, or folks with bad hips, putting all your weight on the walker can cause pain in your feet and legs. To alleviate this problem, you should put a fraction (20%) of your weight on the walker and ensure it is well balanced when you walk.

Worried about the balance issues of your elderly one? Then you must read our in-depth reviews on the best canes for balance problems to improve stability in your loved ones.

4. Keep Your Fingers on the Brakes

The best way to avoid accidents while using a walker for seniors is to keep your fingers firmly on the brakes. Pedestrians are more likely to trip over their own feet or fall backward with the help of a walker than they are from riding an home elevator or escalator.

5. Lock Brakes When Not Moving

When you’re not using it, your walker should be locked by bolting the brakes to a secure surface. A walker’s brakes are still functional even when the handgrips aren’t held.

6. Keep it Light

The lighter the walker, the easier it is to control. Oftentimes, seniors have trouble lifting heavy objects, especially those that are made out of solid wood. Look for walkers made of lightweight materials like aluminum and plastics.

7. Add a Grip Strip to Your Walker

Adding a grip strip to your walker will allow you to use the handrails in case you accidentally lose your balance.

Many resources are available for seniors which helps in financing walkers. To know more check out our article on Do Medicare Covers the cost of walkers?

Conclusion

The walker serves an important purpose for seniors who find it difficult to move around. This article presented you with information on how to make your walking experience more enjoyable and safe. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, use walker glides watch out for obstacles, and keep the brakes on when they’re not in use!

If you have any questions or concerns about this topic, please leave a comment below and we will answer as soon as we can.