|  | Healthcare Industry | Elderly Care

Tips For Invacare Leg Walkers

A walker is a three-sided, four-legged device used to enhance mobility for patients with lower extremity weakness or balance problems. A standard walker has four rubber-tipped legs, although some walkers may have wheels instead of tips on the front legs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that of 47,000 serious injuries in elderly people using walkers and canes, 87 percent involved walkers. Walkers can be invaluable in increasing a patient's mobility, but following a few important tips will make their use much safer. Invacare makes walker 17 different models.

  1. The Right Fit

    • First and foremost, your walker must be comfortable to use. A key element in user comfort is height. Your physical therapist or nurse can help you adjust the height of the walker so that it is comfortable for you. Typically, the height should allow you to hold the walker with your arms flexed at a 15- to 30-degree angle.

    From Chair to Walker

    • To rise from a chair, position the walker directly in front of you. Slide your body forward and use the arms of the chair -- not the arms of the walker -- to support you as you rise. Once you have achieved a standing position, move your hands from the arms of the chair to the arms of the walker.

    Getting Into Motion

    • Using your walker to improve your balance requires a little concentration but becomes second nature with practice. First, extend the walker to arm's length away from your body with all four of its legs on the floor. Step slowly into the walker, leaning on its arm rests as you step. Stand still for a moment to ensure that you have your balance; then proceed, taking small steps.

    Additional Pointers

    • If you use a folding walker, make sure it is locked before using it. Don't carry objects while using the walker; attach a basket to the walker instead. Inspect the rubber tips and, if applicable, wheels on your walker regularly. Worn tips and wheels can cause slips and falls. Wear rubber-soled shoes whenever possible. Inspect floors before you rise from a seated position; don't watch the floor when you walk.

Elderly Care - Related Articles