Slide 17 of 21
Notes:
Use of any assistive devices in the home needs to be routinely evaluated. Poor use of these devices as well as older people reaching to get the devices, slipping from inappropriate use, or trying to catch the device if it tips over or starts to fall to the floor can cause an individual to loose their balance and fall.
Canes are usually indicated for people who cannot walk because of one sided injury to an extremity which can occur following a stroke The cane needs to be adjusted to the user’s height. Physical therapy should be consulted to instruct the person on the proper use of a cane.
Pick up walkers require upper arm strength and require that the user be able to maintain their balance while lifting the walker up and then placing it down again. When this becomes too difficult for the person to accomplish, they begin to push the walker along the floor which can increase their risk of falling.
Gliding walkers allow the person to walk by pushing the walker forward instead of picking it up. This is easier and it performs closer to a normal way of walking. The disadvantage is that in the home, the floor surface needs to be flat and smooth in order to properly use this type of walker. Carpet edges and door thresholds will cause the walker to come to a sudden stop and possibly tip over causing the user to lose his/her balance and fall.
The home should be evaluated to ensure that a wheelchair can safely be used in the home. Is there enough room to maneuver the wheelchair especially in the bedroom and bathroom? Can the person safely operate the chair and safely transfer from the chair?
