Walking Stick, Walker or Wheelchair: Choosing the Right Aid (Video)

Transcript

Why does a too-short walking stick cause falls?

Why does a too-short walking stick cause falls?

Choosing Walking Aids

Pick the right walking aid and avoid falls, stay till the end for the one height trick that makes all the difference.

Which aid fits?

First, match the aid to the problem. A stick helps if only one leg hurts. A walker is better when both legs are shaky or after surgery. A wheelchair is for when walking is unsafe or distances are long.

Set the right height

Height matters more than brand. Have them stand in the shoes they wear most, arms relaxed. Measure from floor to the crease of the wrist, that’s where the handle should sit. The elbow should be a little bent, like holding a shopping bag.

Elbow bend

Aim for a 15 to 30 degree elbow angle; it keeps the parent upright and reduces forward lean.

Holding the stick

The stick goes in the hand opposite the painful leg. When the weak leg steps forward, the stick moves with it, sharing the load. On stairs remember: go up with the good leg, down with the bad.

Home safety tips

Make the house safer: place a rubber-backed mat in the bathroom, tape down or roll away loose rugs, and keep a clear path about 60 to 70 centimeters wide from bedroom to toilet. A night light helps avoid dark-time trips.

When to see a pro

If the parent has had a stroke, a hip fracture, or multiple falls, a physiotherapist can assess gait and suggest the right aid. Sudden pain, head injury, or dizziness when standing warrants a doctor’s visit right away.

The one height trick

The single most effective habit is setting the handle at the wrist crease and keeping the elbow bent 15 to 30 degrees. This simple adjustment stops the forward lean that leads to falls.

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Read the full guide

Read the complete guide on thecareonline.com. This is general information, not medical advice.