How to Choose the Right Ambulatory Aids for You
Whether it comes about through an accident, illness or even simply aging, it could happen that you may find yourself in need of some kind of ambulatory aid so that you can get around independently. Until you need one, no one ever thinks about which one they would prefer, or even be capable of handling, and in this article, we will cover the basic types available, as well as suggestions as to who might be able to use them the best.
Want to learn more about our selections in ambulatory aids? Everyone here at Mobility Specialists is well trained in fitting the right model to the right person. Additionally, we offer only the most affordable aids around. Call us today for more information.
Wheelchairs and Power Chairs
For those who cannot comfortably use most ambulatory aids, they may be a better candidate for either a wheelchair or power chair. The manual wheelchair is moved about by manipulating the outer large wheels, rolling them forward and back to facilitate turns, movement and momentum.
Power chairs and wheelchairs have motors mounted on them to provide the momentum needed for movement. They also have a more sophisticated braking system than the manual version, and feature more comfortable seats and headrests. The only limitation on these mobility aids is the battery life, on average between three and six hours.
Canes and Crutches
For people who have no issue with their balance, and have decent upper body strength, it may be more fitting for them to use canes or crutches for their daily living aids. Canes are good for those who only have limited mobility in one leg or foot. To move successfully, keep the cane in the same hand as the injured leg, and as you walk, move the cane with that leg, taking the weight off of it, and putting in on the cane. Canes are available in single tip and tripod versions.
When choosing crutches, the armrests should never be more than six inches above your waist, because they are meant to be leaned upon during movement, so that the crutches take your full weight instead of your legs. Always firmly place the crutches first, ahead of you no further than a normal stride, and then move your legs smoothly forward.
Walkers and Rollators
A walker is an aluminum frame designed to act as a brace for a person as they walk. Moved about just like crutches, they take the full weight of the person while they slowly move about. These are excellent for anyone who is re-learning how to walk, and have no desire to be chair bound. One of the best ambulatory aids around, a rollator is perfect for those who wish to get around on their own two feet, but need to rest while doing so. Outfitted with a handy seat, it can be used as an aid for walking upright, or while seated.
How to Choose the Right Ambulatory Aids for You
Whether it comes about through an accident, illness or even simply aging, it could happen that you may find yourself in need of some kind of ambulatory aid so that you can get around independently. Until you need one, no one ever thinks about which one they would prefer, or even be capable of handling, and in this article, we will cover the basic types available, as well as suggestions as to who might be able to use them the best.
Want to learn more about our selections in ambulatory aids? Everyone here at Mobility Specialists is well trained in fitting the right model to the right person. Additionally, we offer only the most affordable aids around. Call us today for more information.
Wheelchairs and Power Chairs
For those who cannot comfortably use most ambulatory aids, they may be a better candidate for either a wheelchair or power chair. The manual wheelchair is moved about by manipulating the outer large wheels, rolling them forward and back to facilitate turns, movement and momentum.
Power chairs and wheelchairs have motors mounted on them to provide the momentum needed for movement. They also have a more sophisticated braking system than the manual version, and feature more comfortable seats and headrests. The only limitation on these mobility aids is the battery life, on average between three and six hours.
Canes and Crutches
For people who have no issue with their balance, and have decent upper body strength, it may be more fitting for them to use canes or crutches for their daily living aids. Canes are good for those who only have limited mobility in one leg or foot. To move successfully, keep the cane in the same hand as the injured leg, and as you walk, move the cane with that leg, taking the weight off of it, and putting in on the cane. Canes are available in single tip and tripod versions.
When choosing crutches, the armrests should never be more than six inches above your waist, because they are meant to be leaned upon during movement, so that the crutches take your full weight instead of your legs. Always firmly place the crutches first, ahead of you no further than a normal stride, and then move your legs smoothly forward.
Walkers and Rollators
A walker is an aluminum frame designed to act as a brace for a person as they walk. Moved about just like crutches, they take the full weight of the person while they slowly move about. These are excellent for anyone who is re-learning how to walk, and have no desire to be chair bound. One of the best ambulatory aids around, a rollator is perfect for those who wish to get around on their own two feet, but need to rest while doing so. Outfitted with a handy seat, it can be used as an aid for walking upright, or while seated.