How To Handle A Rolling Walker Safely

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By Michelle Olson


It may seem like just a simple piece of equipment mostly operated by the elderly and infirm, but walkers are frequently involved in pretty serious accidents. Used improperly, they can cause broken bones, concussions, and automobile collisions. Although everyone should be careful in the vicinity of an individual who needs this equipment to get around, the person using a rolling walker bears responsibility for operating it safely.

If the equipment is not adjusted to your height, you will either have to bend over to use it correctly or have your arms in an uncomfortable position. Ideally walkers should be at wrist height when your arms are hanging loosely at your sides. Holding onto it while walking beside it is not how it was intended to be used. Although it is sometimes tempting to look down, you should stand as straight as possible and watch where you're going.

People using walkers have to pay attention to where they are going. Walking with a piece of equipment in front of you can be hazardous. If you are inside, you need to check the room you are entering for area rugs, doorway plates, and small pets. Outside, sidewalks may have cracks and holes that could make you lose your balance. You need to learn the proper way to step off of curbs, as well, so you don't become unbalanced and fall.

If you need glasses or hearing aids, you should wear both when operating this equipment. It is a good idea to look both ways before entering a hallway or room to make sure someone else isn't just outside. You shouldn't follow too closely behind another person, and you shouldn't travel too fast for conditions.

Walkers are like everything else, the parts can wear out or break. You should check the wheels for debris you might have picked up. The rubber tips on the legs will eventually become worn and have to be replaced. If the seat isn't secure, it should be tightened until it is.

The seats on walkers are not meant to be used while the equipment is in motion. They are conveniences for the users. Walkers should not be used in the place of ladders. Using the equipment in ways not intended by the manufacturers can cause injury if it topples over or breaks. Putting too many packages or grocery bags in the seat can unbalance it and make it tip.

There is a certain etiquette to be followed when using walkers. If you are in a restaurant, for instance, the best idea is to let the waiter take it from you and store it out of the way until you are ready to leave. You shouldn't park your equipment in aisles at a theater or concert. Not only could someone trip over them, but they might be a hazard in the case of an emergency.

Whoever invented walkers did a great service for people with mobility issues. Unlike a wheelchair, walkers allow individuals to stand and move around. They can get some exercise and have a degree of independence at the same time.




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