Challenges with walking, balance, and mobility can lead to falls for older adults. However, falling isn’t the only poor outcome that can come with walking issues; seniors can also become nervous or anxious about getting around their homes, leading to a more sedentary lifestyle that can in turn lead to more mobility obstacles, poor mental health, and loss of independence. While balance and mobility challenges are more common with age, older adults can still maintain their independence and safety. Walking aids or mobility devices can keep older adults independent, confident, and safe while moving throughout their homes and communities.
Walking aids and mobility devices are not one-size-fits-all. Be sure you work with your loved one’s physician to ensure they choose the safest one that addresses their specific needs. In addition, a physical therapist can help you and your loved one understand how to safely use the device, including how to store it when not in use.
Here, we explore a few of the most common types of walking aids and mobility devices to help you become familiar with possible solutions for your or your loved one’s mobility challenges. The right match can help to boost confidence and independence with this activity of daily living.
Single-point cane
A single-point cane comes to mind when most people think about a walking aid. This traditional cane can be made of metal or wood, has a curved or angled handle, and has only one point at the bottom that touches the ground. There is usually a rubber tip on the bottom of the cane that provides extra stability and grip.
Single-point canes are relatively lightweight, making them easy to travel with or keep in the back seat of the car while driving. Most also come with a loop around the top that the user puts around their wrist to prevent dropping the cane.
A single-point cane can be ideal for someone who struggles with balance while walking. It can also be helpful for someone who is weaker on one side or needs to bear less weight on one side while walking. The user holds the cane on their strong side for extra balance and stability.
A single-point cane will not work for someone who cannot effectively use it correctly. If your loved one is struggling with mobility, make an appointment with a physical therapist to practice using the walking aid. If the extra instruction doesn’t help, you might need to try another device that your loved one can use safely and correctly.
These types of canes are relatively inexpensive (typically running less than $25) and easy to find online or at the durable medical equipment section of a pharmacy.
Quad cane
While a single-point cane touches the floor at a single point, a quad cane touches the floor with four small legs, set in a square at the bottom. A quad cane can provide more stability than a single-point cane, making it ideal for someone who needs a little more support due to balance issues. However, because of the wider base, it can be heavier and a bit more cumbersome to maneuver than a single-point cane. Fit and handle selection can help to alleviate some of the cane’s weight, so be sure to work with a therapist to choose the best one for you.
Quad canes can also be purchased online or at a pharmacy. They are reasonably priced, typically costing less than $35.
Traditional walker
Canes are not always the best solution. A walker could be a better choice for someone who needs consistent support when walking due to balance issues or general weakness. A traditional walker has four points of contact with the ground. Some versions have rubber tips at the bottom of all four legs while others might have wheels on the two front legs. Most traditional walkers are lightweight and foldable, which is handy for travel or if your loved one needs extra space by their chair or bed.
A traditional walker requires some practice for safe and efficient use. Working with a physical therapist will ensure your loved one learns how to use it safely and with proper form. For example, a walker shouldn’t be used too far ahead of the person. Instead, the user should push the walker a bit ahead and then walk two steps to be back inside the walker before pushing it forward again. Leaning too much or pushing it too far forward can cause falls.
Walkers can be purchased online or at a pharmacy. Traditional walkers are typically priced at less than $60.
Rollator walker
Rollator walkers, sometimes lovingly referred to as “Cadillacs,” are walkers with four wheels. These walkers typically feature a seat and wheel locks so a person using one can take a break and sit down safely as needed. Rollator walkers are ideal for adults who have low endurance or need the option to take frequent breaks in addition to having balance or mobility challenges.
A rollator walker is typically heavier than a traditional walker, and while it can collapse, it does take practice to do so. It can be more cumbersome to throw in the back seat of the car, for example, or to maneuver when traveling, but the safety it offers may well be worth it for many people.
Rollators can be found online or at a pharmacy. Pricing is typically less than $90.
Scooter
For those who don’t have the endurance to walk long distances, a motorized scooter can provide safety while enabling independence. Motorized scooters are typically not used in small homes or apartments but instead in larger areas like stores. People who need a motorized scooter might successfully use a walker or cane in their home and transition to a scooter when going outside or to another location.
Motorized scooters can be dangerous, so it is imperative to understand how they work before using them. Work with a physical therapist to ensure your loved one is using the scooter safely. If your loved one lives in a senior living community, double-check that the community allows scooters in the halls and common areas, as some communities ban scooters due to accidents.
Scooters are heavy and cumbersome to move without battery assistance. It can be challenging, for example, to load a scooter into a van or car that does not have a wheelchair lift.
You can order a scooter through a pharmacy or online. These devices are an investment, with prices typically ranging from $1,500 to $2,500.
Wheelchair
A wheelchair is another option for someone who needs mobility support at home and on the go. It is designed for someone who cannot safely walk without standby or hands-on support. Most people who use wheelchairs still transfer from chair to bed or from chair to couch and do not stay in the wheelchair all the time.
A wheelchair is collapsible, allowing it to be easily transported in the trunk of a car. However, if a person cannot transfer from the wheelchair to a car or public transportation seat, they will need transportation that includes a wheelchair lift.
Wheelchairs need to be fitted and outfitted with the right accessories to meet the needs of the people using them. Work with a physical therapist to select the best combination for your situation.
Wheelchairs can be ordered through a pharmacy with a doctor’s order or from a durable medical equipment vendor. They typically cost less than $300, and some costs might be covered by insurance.
Walking aids for mobility and independence
Working hand in hand with your loved one’s physician and physical therapist will ensure you choose the mobility device that will serve them best now and in the future. With the right walking aid or mobility device, your loved one can maintain their independence and well-being while getting around, whether in the home or out and about.
