Walkers, canes, and other assistive devices can help seniors maintain their independence. However, if used incorrectly, these devices can cause more falls than they prevent. The American Physical Therapy Association recommends elderly adults who use canes and walkers as walking aids be properly assessed and fitted by a physical therapist to avoid fall-related injuries.
A study in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society estimated 47,000 older adult fall injuries in emergency departments were associated with improper use of walking devices annually. Of these 87% were walkers, 12% with canes, and less than 4% using both. Walkers were associated with seven times as many injuries as canes, and approximately one-third of the injured were hospitalized. Could the walker injuries have been avoided if the person had been fitted properly and trained to use their device?
Physical therapists can help prevent falls and ensure safety when using devices. There are fall prevention programs and interventions that can be tailored to each individual’s needs to address issues with balance, stability, weakness, injuries, and pain. Physical therapists are movement experts, with the skills and knowledge to provide proper fitting and training on how to use mobility devices.
Physical therapists may also prescribe specific exercises to help improve functional mobility. Exercises may include:
• Strengthening exercises
• Range of motion exercises
• Flexibility exercises
• Balance exercises
Staying active is a key component to staying healthy and maintaining mobility and function. It is important for people to use the device that best matches their needs in order to stay as mobile as possible. There are many reasons why seniors lose their independence, making fall prevention an important facet of aging in place. Our fall prevention program helps with device selection, fitting, and training. Contact us to learn more about our services!
Sources:
Proper fit and use of walking aids can prevent fall-related injuries in elderly. [Internet]. ScienceDaily. [Cited 2021 Nov 11]. Available from: www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/07/090710170105.htm.
Stevens JA, Thomas K, Teh L, Greenspan AI. Unintentional fall injuries associated with walkers and canes in older adults treated in US emergency departments. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society. 2009 Aug;57(8):1464-9.
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