Using assistive devices for safety with mobility is important for certain individuals with balance concerns. Falls are not good for anyone at anytime, especially as a person ages. As such, it is imperative to prevent them whenever possible.

Use of assistive devices such as a cane or walker is sometimes avoided as a matter of pride. In reality though, they should be viewed as a way to maintain a higher level of independence and mobility SAFELY.

For those after surgery, walkers and canes can be invaluable to help the individual get up and moving faster. They can help off-set some weight on the surgical leg, and lower pain while easing the ability to walk. And they can also be a means to stabilize one’s balance early after surgery. Again, their role is to promote and assist early mobility, which ultimately helps with healing.

As people age, unfortunately balance sometimes suffers. Because as adults we generally do not “challenge” our balance system well, and thus its sensitivity lessens over time. This, in addition to strength loss can negatively impact a person’s balance. Also, changes in vision and reaction time change and not in favor of the individual. Thus, when added all up, older adults are at greater risk of falls….And this is where usage of assistive devices for safety comes into play. 

For individuals seeking to remain active at any cost, assistive devices are great ways to keep moving. By providing some measure of external support a person with knee pain may be able to walk further without pain. This means they can then attend a grandchild’s activity or event vs avoiding due to pain. Or help an individual with spinal stenosis to walk further meaning they can get around the grocery store and not give up that part of their routine.

And above all, assistive devices help prevent falls. Falls can lead to injury, avoidance of activities, and increases the risk they will fall again. So, for the person who wants to remain active and feels their balance or stability may not be what it once was…an assistive device can help them to stay active safely.

Should you have more questions about how assistive devices can help prevent falls and keep someone active or have had a fall (or know someone who has) and are looking for ways to help – click on the following link (HERE) to request a call and get your questions answered.