Are walkers and canes BAD for you?
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- Опубликовано: 6 сен 2024
- Seniors: Can a Walker or cane reduce your risk of falling? Do you really need a walker or cane to walk with less risk of falling ?
This video will discuss to topic and hopefully answer all your questions.
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Learn more at www.neurolasticinstitute.com
I’m 82 and have difficulty walking any distance. Today I walked 3.2km with my walker and had a great time! Love my walker!
Yes 80 and started to use a walker when feet problems left me walking like a drunk as I was so off balance, I now walk eacd day with ease even when feet sore if you need a stick walker or mobile shop rider go for it use trolly at shops who wants to end up with broken body due to stupid embaracement.😊
@@elsiecater156 totally agree
That’s brilliant, at 82 and walking for independence and exercise, good for you. I’m 76 I said I’d never use a walker, well to hell with pride. If and when I start having falls I’ll be using a walker. Why risk breaking a hip, many older people don’t survive a broken hip.
Young men are walking with canes….they’re the perfect weapon against attack.
Keep it up proud of yoi😊
Everyone is nice to you when you use a walker. People open doors, ask if they can help me lift my walker into the car, carry packages, etc. So it's all good with me using a walker. No one laughs at you or anything. It's way better than falling.
I agree! I tend to walk around my huge apartment building with a wheeled grocery cart, and people are lovely, opening the door for me, holding the elevator door, smiling at me.
I have no problem using a cane to feel safer walking. I always feel safer using a shopping cart when in a store. No shame in my game!
Hi , that is so true,!! They think you are so old and fragile ,lol works to your advantage.!!
not true where i live......... i have the opposite reaction from people. and i am isolated. alone and somewhat fearful because people are rude. mean and pushy... i rarely leave apt. only when i have to. it sucks cause i have become very weak and depressed. down to 119 lbs not wanting to be. i need to get a PT or i am gonna lose it. i have no one to help me. been left to deteriorate. Have neck injury that has made this situation into helplessness....i wish Everyone in this world is nice to you when you use a walker as you stated?
Interesting . I too use a cane due to drop foot and did not realize why so many peop!e are so quick to hold a door open for me.
I have severe bone-on-bone hip osteoarthritis and was encouraged to use a cane. There is something called "cane shame" and I have been shamed and laughed at by "friends" and strangers. It hurt but I needed to forget about others and realize I was walking for miles with my cane. Aloha.
keep ignoring the ignorant shamers. I get no such shaming in my community, I am using the can well, walk 1.5 miles and do calisthetics 6 of 7 days and other exercises. Therefore, press on!
@@jeroldpaquette1151 thanks for the encouragement. Aloha.
My wife and I love our canes. Wife says it is the best technology and FASHION ACCESSORY ever ! We walk up straight upright and fast !
I have started feeling dizzy occasionally so an occupational therapist suggested a walker. As I was 63, I felt embarrassed about using one. It took a very close call to change my mind. Now I love my walker. It has 4 wheels and a seat and gives me something to hold on to. I walk more easily and faster now that I am not concentrating on not falling. Thank you!
I had to start using a walker when I was in my mid 40s due to neurological disabilities. Walkers are freedom machines! I say give it a name, put on pretty paint or funny stickers, love it, use it and wear it out! : )
I do love it! Her name is Hazel! I don’t have a basket but I tie my reusable bags onto it and off I go. I also have carabiners to use if necessary. I find people are very kind and helpful. I am trying to come up with a winter tire idea as the snow (I live in Canada) but even that is doable.. 😄
I'm 41 and got a rollator for my balance and joint weakness issues. If you have any tips for winter, I'm all ears! lol @@marileesaturley4176
Good for you. Keep it up!
I needed to hear this today. I've been walking very carefully with 2 canes, and I walk so much better with a walker. But yes, I've been hesitant to use a walker in public. Thank you, you have helped me.
I would say use a walker or a cane if you need it (and you will know) and, the big one, don't let pride or embarrassment stand in the way. But also do exercises that can help you. Stay active if you can.
Absolutely! I've needed a walking stick for quite some time now and I will never let pride vanity or the stupid opinions of ignoramuses get in the way of my using it! As the famous cliche so rightly goes 'Pride goeth before a fall! Enough said!!!!
1:46 ❤
So good to get outside every day if possible !
I use a cane as i will bend over before i get outside.
The world is a better place with people like you. Keep doing the videos. Thanks...
So nice of you
I am 79 years old and I fell 4 times last year because I was distracted. My hip did not break, but I have severe bone on bone as well as hip arthritis. I always use a cane when I go out and I did have physical therapy. Being that I am a full time caregiver to my 82 year old husband who is on home peritoneal dialysis, I am trying to put off surgery. So far I am stable and take no pain meds. Using a cane does not bother me. If I had a walker that would let me stand tall, I would not hesitate to use it. I am super careful while walking.
I'm in my mid 80s I had a difficult time of walking so I started walking with a cane in 2023 then I went to a bike shop and seeing that they had three wheelers trikes .so now I ride a trike that I purchased in in 2024 my walking, my balance is so much better now .I am so thankful for cat trike.God lead
me in the right direction.I have a bad knee and lower back pain,I can true fully say that greater days are a head.❤ It
That’s such good advice. Thank you for sharing it. I’ve taken to using a walker around the house but don’t want to be seen outside with it. I also thought it would hurt my ability to ever be free of it because I’d lose strength. I’m glad to know the more I walk with it the better. Time to swallow my misplaced pride and get outside with it. Where I live the sidewalks are in good condition and the area is nice and flat. The perfect spot to get out and roll around especially with spring coming.
Being idle causes lose of strength & muscles to atrophy, so use your walker all the time & stay active, healthy, independent & happy. You will find that people will respect you & not look down on you.
A good lesson for me tks for sharing... And I can spread this advice🌺
Like all of you, I also use assistance when walking. I have severe neuropathy in both feet, a drop foot on the left as well as major low back pain and arthritic knees. Whew! I'm a mess. 😅
Even with a rollator I wasn't getting much exercise so I got an adult tricycle. Now I get plenty of exercise, but even so I find I need to start doing more walking for better strength in my legs and to decrease the ache/weakness in my back.
I'm pretty thankful to have these assistive devices available to me. 😊 Oh, I'm 74 years.
Keep up the great work ❣️
It is not balance, I have a very bad knee and a bad hip. I can not move my right side without the walker. Yes, thanks for this episode. You have really made it clear that for some of us, a walker is the answer.
How do you manage your shopping with your disabilities?
@@rosiej1942 Small short trips. I put the walker in my cart. Also, I ask a neighbor to pick up a few things sometimes.
Ask your doc. if replacements might be in order. They are covered by Medicare and are amazing.
@@meredithmericle7487 My hip is basically like a jig saw puzzle, completely a mess. But the hip surgeon will not perform the operation! All your health numbers must 'insure' a good operation. Many people do not qualify for the surgery, it is not a $$$ issue.
canes crutches walkers etc are great and needed by millions of elderly and younger patients worldwide.. i use a cane almost all the time.. it gives great confidence
Me too I was walking only at home, buy with muy walking stick I walk outsides again.
Walker is a friend which gives you a sense of freedom.
Getting past the stigma of growing old or needing assistance is an issue for some people. What you need to fear is hurting yourself because you needed a device but you don't use one and you really get injured
I am 70 and I have fallen several times over the last 10 years but they have been because of being careless. But recently I have been ill and that has caused a weakness in my legs so that my balance is appalling. I feel that I need the stability of a stick to help me just stay upright. Who cares what anyone thinks…they’re my bones that could break not theirs.
I have had a few falls and now when I walk my dog every morning I happily use my walking poles. They have made so much difference and I feel so much safer and I enjoy my walk so much more now. I would rather be safe than worry about what people think of me . Anyone who is not stable walking ,go for these aids. 🚶🏻♂️
After falling and fracturing my pelvis and with osteoporosis, I now happily use my walker inside and outside. It gives me the confidence I need to not fall and strengthens my legs at the same time. I don't go anywhere without it!😊
@@margarethiggins8217 l
Thank for 2:51 3:00 on
I quite agree, i went to church many years with a cane, until i began walking around the walls, i knew a walker was drawing nearer, and worried about my street cred - until i was noticed and a friend brought of their friends walker 's, to try .The hurdle i feared didn't exist anymore, though it did shock those who weren't so close to me, from experiance i can fully edorse a 4 wheeler as being the most stable
To use walkers and other aides reduces the risk of becoming an invalid, and hardship for your family, I love my walker, it’s my best friend🤗
I had a hip replacement a few years ago and didn’t require a cane or walker after a while. But recently I had a minor stroke and do require a cane or walker for assistance again. I used to fight it and not want to depend on them in public, but I have since changed my mind and I’m more comfortable in public. They add to my quality of life and I’m happier being out and about!
Yes a shopping cart is a big help & I have a "pretty cane" & sometimes hesitated to use it in public but it's better than a fall!! Thanks for information. I think sometimes we feel it lessens us as older but I feel safer with it & learn not care what others think❤️❤️
I agree with you !00 % better to walk with walker then risk a fall and end up having a broken hip or worse having to have surgery. These walking devices are a life saver for
many of us who would not be able to get around at all.
Thank you sooooo much for this information! I am 64 and need a walker...it is kinda humiliating at first, but it has kept me out in the world and kept me safe and gets me the exercise I need to try and maintain/improve my strength and overall health (mental also) so that I may keep my independence! Thank you from the bottom of my heart!❤❤❤
I am 72 and have Ehlers-Danlos, hypermobile type and use a cane. While I am vain, the cane allows me to look people in the face and walk with confidence. I look so much better when I am vertical and smiling than when I am face planted on the floor or on my backside, grimacing in pain. Same thing when I use my walker with arm crutches. Bruises and scrapes aren’t fun an neither are fractures.
I have had multiple joint surgeries and I love my walker since I can walk further and faster with it. A cane makes me limp and I lose confidence without some assistive device. It is important to be fitted with the best one for you. It is not a one size fits all or most.
I am 85 in the past year I have fallen 3 times broken hip and wrist and badly. Bruised now I walk with a walker without wheels I will move onto a walker with wheels once I am more confident it helps so much and i can do housework knowing I’m safe
Walkers with wheels are better than those without. A walker without wheels can require lifting with each step. If the person using it lacks upper body strength or has poor balance, it won't be good for them. A walker with two wheels in front is very helpful. It's important to stay focused when using the walker, be aware of curbs, a single stair that can send one flying if they didn't see it. The four wheel walkers with a seat, handbreaks and storage compartment are good for those who need to sit once in a while, for grocery shopping and their less likely to let vanity get in the way of needing the walker.
A cane can be very dangerous, it can trip, it can get caught in the railings of stairs and even cause slipping if the tip is worn out. The cane with four little legs on it is dangerous and should be taken off the market. Use a walker instead of a four legged cane! Stay safe, people. Don't let vanity get in the way of your healing.
Who cares what people and strangers think? I'm sure there are people who praise those who use a walker for being smart enough to care more about their safety than the thoughts of others.
There is such a stigma to aging in our society. It’s too bad. When I had a hip replacement I loved the freedom I felt with my walker. Prior to surgery I would not have gone anywhere outside without my cane. Too bad if I look older than my years. I’m 71. The sidewalks in my area are so torn up that I have recently been tripping and falling. I’m trying to be more conscious of my step-heel first and toes up. But I may resort to using a cane again because walking is my main form of exercise. Having a fall is so discouraging-and very scary. How many times can you hit your head on concrete without major damage?
Just your head? The rest of your body is vulnerable also. As we age our bones become weaker & break easier. I am recovering from a broken hip & find a walker to be a godsend without which I wouldn't be able to get the necessary exercise I need to strengthen my body so that I can regain my freedom & independence. After my surgery I learned that I have osteoporosis weakened bones so any fall, no matter how minor could cause more broken bones. I refuse to live a life of a shut-in & this walker gives me the ability to be active & do for myself as I have always done. My vanity is that I am proud to have this walker which enables me to maintain a normal life again. I am 78 live alone so must be able to do for myself which I am doing .
Love my roller walker . Prevent falling .
Walking faster
6:46
I go to PT twice a week . I appreciate these additional moved to increase my self confidence. Also using devices is better than taking the risk of falling
call your Mayor, City Manager, Councilmen, etc and COMPLAIN!!! There is no excuse to allow pedestrian traffic to be endangered. If you are friendly with a lawyer, call him/her and just ask for help. You will be nicely surprised.
THANK YOU for this.
Using a walker makes you stronger , not weaker. I have severe spinal stenosis. I resisted a walker until my family decided to plan a trip to Switzerland. I immediately got a rollator-walker and started to exercise. I can now walk a mile in23 minutes. I can easily walk 5 or 6 miles over the course of a day with my rollator walker. Because I exercise most days now I need fewer pain meds. I used to need a steroid shot on my lower back every 3-4 months. Now I have not needed one in a year. Life changing. Keep encouraging people!
I don’t care for canes, but when one’s balance is compromised ( as we age) a walker is a blessing as it keeps one mobile! So many physical weaknesses cause poor balance, and we should all walk “ heel to toe” which one can do with a walker, so a walker is the greatest gift an elderly person could own!
100% true. Walk faster when shopping in any store
With shopping cart .
You are a kind and wonderful physical therapist. Thank you for this advice.
thank you
I have a dislocated Knee from an old bicycle accident. It's not painful but I'm really 'twisted. I dont want a knee replacement. I have been using my Hiking Stick for years. Wouldn't leave the house without it.
Me too maybe GEL next month in left knee..
My mother who ended up in a wheelchair, but went from cane to walker to wheelchair after a fall Would nag other people in her building to use their cane or walker, because she said that look older in a wheelchair than using a cane now and you can get a lot better with a cane or walker than you’ll ever get around in a wheelchair
I fractured my femur last January and I am still using my cane and very comfortable with my walking ability, I am walking instead of driving and I am 78years if age and I feel very proud of myself and back at my local leisure classes and gym work to improve my walking ability hopefully to stay sSfe as i am also a widow My journey has been very positive and I am not proud to have my cane with me as our pavem er nts Are no to very good her well in the ER UK, Thank you so much for your advice for my guidance 😅 One happy lady
My walking since posted that info and I feel wonderful and 🎉🎉🎉very happy with myself , it had Al so been tough but i feel so proud of myself lovexxxx
I'm 71. I have arthritis in my knees, hips and spine. I've had two knee replacements in the last year and my surgeon says I will likely need at least one hip replacement.
I find that my balance has eroded in the last few years, so I am doing exercises I found on this wonderful channel to help with that. I get how some people might be embarrassed to use an assisted walking device in public, but what I would remind them is it's not so much that they're using the device, but HOW they're using it.
When I had physical therapy, I was urged to remember to stand as straight as possible when using the device, with my shoulders back, taking natural strides and not looking down as I walk. There is a difference between doing that and being hunched over and just shuffling along. I get that some people might be in pain and are walking as best that they can, but just remember that sometimes at least some of that pain is being caused by poor posture.
So, even though I'm using a walker, I try to walk with authority and purpose, sort of like I "own the place" and even though I'm using an assisted device, someone who might want to cause me harm might do well to think twice about it.
Thank you for your wonderful videos. They have been really helpful to me!
Great😊
Thank you from this MS warrior! Much appreciated!
I always say 3 legs are better than 2, or 6 legs are better than 3. I use a rolling walker for walking the dog 1 1/4 miles a day, parks, cruises, etc. I asked the Dr for a walker-- he said no, he didn't want me dependent on it, so I bought 1 in a resale shop (bite me). We had gravel, broken cement chunks, nasty stuff on our roads. New used dog is a puller. Also if we go to places like the Zoo, Bush, Disney. I carry everyone's drinks, our lunch, and jackets. Before covid I went to the gym, with cane, but twice I asked someone to wipe down the equipment- one Said "if you want it wiped down do it yourself " the othrr said he didn't sweat so I guess he doesn't drop cells or bacteria. I've been a gym person since the 60's, I quit going.
This is the video that makes it final for me. It all makes sense and I so believe in exercise and walking so I will be using my walker. I do feel safer with it. That is the bottom line. I have never fallen because I am so careful. I know that falling can alter your life so dramatically. I don't want to be bedridden. I am 83 and have sciatica that acts up whenever it wants to plus a hip replacement that makes my one leg slightly longer than the other. When I go to the store I can't wait to get to a shopping cart. Thanks for your valuable info. You are doing so much good! Lucy
Love the walkers. I was a carer for my father & inherited his walkers plus I volunteered at an op shop & also have a four prong walking stick. With a walker I can get shopping in the basket which was too difficult with just a walking stick. I use hand weights in a chair to try & reduce the flab at the back of the arms as using a walker you can’t swing your arms. Just remember to put the brakes on & have clearance & not as much furniture. I fell a second time when I got up from sitting at the table but carried a cup & plate in both hands to the walker. I should have the walker next to the table & need to move some furniture to fit the walker next to it to be easily manoeuvrable.
I've learned to get a shopping cart in the parking lot when going into a big store of any kind because it helps me to walk longer without pain.
Hi, I'm 77 years old soon to be 78 in July, I use my wheelchair for walking some time. I. am able to get around independently , but at a slower rate if I walk like that. So, I use the w.c. for long distance walking. I go to the grocery store , put a small. basket in the w. C. Big, Bam, Boom.!!!there you have it.
You bring up an excellent point that isn't stated often enough. I totally understand people's resistance to assistive devices. Maybe the distributors of these things should create ads making them look cool, something like "My walker is sexier than your walker."
Or my Covid mask litters the streets better than yours.
I had gout in my right knee recently, super painful, way, no way I could walk. I got by using a couple of canes because that's all I had at the time, The first thing I did when I could get around better was go get a walker at the 2nd hand store. I sure could have and would have used a walker when I needed it. The amount of pain when trying to get around, I could care less what others think.
Lumpy unleveled ground/pavements make me unsteady.....smooth areas I am fine...
Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful information!
Not 'get rid of it'! Pls put it aside or put away,never know if needing walking aid later on in life. Or least donate it! That's where I bought mine! Ik you were using an expression but some senior or others may not get your point! Thx
When I started using my cane I got laughed at because I was in my 50’s but I had bad Knee’s and had a knee replacement in which my surgeon got my knee replacement in there crooked which caused worse pain. I was told I was where I started I needed a new replacement I haven’t had it redone yet I am so scared. I was supposed to have my other knee done 3 months after the first one, but due to the problems with my first one I am afraid to trust
another surgery. I just suffer and can barely walk. Some people just don’t understand how painful it is to walk and think you don’t need your cane, but I have tripping issues I trip and lose my balance easily. One of the most dangerous things is stepping up or down onto curbs the cane works great to keep you from falling. I had a lady in a store tell me once her doctor told her to use one but her friends told her she better not start it and she was much older than I was and I told her not to listen to them it was much better than falling and busting her hip bones. People need to quit making people with walking problems feel ashamed of their disability. I have to use an electronic cart in Walmart and grocery stores or I can’t shop and when you step up to get something some people think see they can walk they don’t need that cart. When I go into the store and there are no carts available I get a buggy to lean on and get the few most needed items and forget the rest cause it hurts to bad trying to walk on those concrete floors. I have offended wished some people could feel my pain just for 5 minutes and I know their attitude would change. I pray for all people with any disability because others do not know how bad each disability is until they get into the situations their selves. I have many other conditions so I speak from experience. GOD Bless ALL! Do unto others as you would have them to do to you. May we all live in peace.
I feel your pain I'm 59 I used a cane my cane got caught on a mat and I fell hard since than I been using a walker fear of falling my balance ain't great but I'm working on it
This topic couldn't be more relevant for me and my daughter at this point in our lives. First, my daughter has a physical disability which was enhanced right at the beginning of COVID about 3 years ago. She is one of the unlucky ones that has residual side effects. Since then her balance (ataxia) has been a lot worse and she used a walker when on flat surfaces and a wheelchair when out and about. My concern with walkers for those that do have balance problems is that if not on a flat surface which most sidewalks or roads are not, the walker can get stuck in a rut or pothole and the person using the walker can (as was the case for my daughter even before COVID) fall or twist an ankle . Another scenario was she would stop, put on the brakes and instead of it helping, she'd hold on to balance herself while still standing, but inevitably she'd take two small steps backwards and often fall. So frustrating because the walker was fitted for her, but failed her because she couldn't balance herself once it was stopped. Taking the small steps was her way of counterbalancing. Now she has broken her ankle (held together with a plate and multiple screws) and needs a Hoyer Lift to get in and out of bed and into a wheelchair. She will get physiotherapy once the cast comes off, but highly unlikely she will be able to use a walker again because of the risk and will now be in a wheelchair fulltime. Hence, I'm not a big fan of walkers for balance especially on surfaces that aren't smooth. Your thoughts...? My situation is that I have an Essential Tremor which was diagnosed many years ago. It actually started in my legs and slightly in my hands. The legs have been the most annoying problem because it impacts my balance to the point that before I was prescribed medication I couldn't even stand up to sing our national anthem without tremble uncontrollably. Lineups are a nightmare even on medication. The medication does help, but the balance part is a major annoyance. Interestingly, I can walk very quickly and sprint too, but stand without feeling like I'm going to fall...not so much. I'm a leaner, but if there isn't something to lean on, I'm in trouble. It's been this way for years, but now I'm wondering if a cane would help or (I can't believe I'm saying this considering my daughter's situation) a walker. I exercise 3 times a week and work on balance and strengthening especially my core, but at age 70 with osteoporosis, Essential Tremor that may have been misdiagnosed because my symptoms sound more like POT...whatever, the name doesn't change the fact I feel like I'm going to fall every time I stand still and definitely with a very wide stance to try to keep myself upright. I've never actually fallen other than once on ice and it wasn't pretty but I didn't break anything. I've always been able to catch myself, but I do have a tendence of walking into or clipping the side of a wall occasionally. So walker or cane or just continue to suck it up buttercup? Do you have any thoughts or insightful information? Sorry about this massive message, but your video is so coincidentally relevant for us right now.
Hi, that is a lot! Sorry! You would really benefit from balance training that focuses on balance challenging activities.Yes, on uneven surfaces, walkers won't work. 4 Wheeled walkers with large wheels sometimes will work, but on very uneven surfaces its impossible.
My Mom used a regular 4 wheel walker inside that had small wheels and a 3 bigger wheel walker for outside. They both had brakes. The 3 wheel walker gave her the ability to change directions easier because there was only one wheel in front and it easily turned right or left to avoid objects. It also pushed over cracks, small holes, and rough terrain. They both had a seat and back rest. Hope this info helps you or someone else.
You are doing amazing ❣️Stay strong 💪 ❣️🙏
I'm 91 years old and have no trouble walking. I do have muscle pains around my waist line, so I tend to bend over when I walk. I use a walking stick to keep me from falling, but i really don't need one if the path is clear. I'm on my exercise bike for one hour each day.
Thank you for saying that about shopping carts. I recently ordered a rollator after struggling to walk more than 30-90min for over two years, and then I fell recently and that was the last straw. I'm only 41 but I have hEDS that was diagnosed late. I have tremors and balance issues that come and go, too, and fatigue and pain in general, so I'm sure this will help. Maybe I won't need it all the time, but I know I need it now!
Thanks for sharing!
I am 70 years old and I use Nordic poles. They are marvellous for my balance and I like standing up straight. They take 20% of the weight off my hips and knees. I can't use canes because my wrists are really weak (I use poles with hand straps to avoid wrist pain). The only thing about the walker is it would be a good place to rest if I got one with a seat.Even my doctor says she thinks it is a good idea. Caveat: you should be automatic with poles before you really need them (I started in my 50's when I only had balance problems on rough territory).
I am reminded of an old Irish Record. Called "Walker
Walked away,
Couldn't stay, couldn't stay,
Walker walked away,
Because he couldn't stay. Lol
I'm 82 and broke my femur due to a fall at age 80. I use a walker around the house and a Rolator when I go out.
I wouldn't get on my feet without one or the other.
thank you -- you're a great guy.
Thank you Doug for this video. I am learning to walk again but have been afraid to depend on the 4 wheeled walking aid with seat that I have been given by my OT as I was afraid I would make my body and or my damaged brain lazy. I honestly do manage well with the shopping trolley or cart that my brother William insists I use when he takes me to the supermarket. He is very good to me and very patient but I need to stop fighting to appear normal and use the equipment that is meant to help me. God bless you. V
0:54 0:54
I was able to see "Beyond Van Gogh" using my Walker and seat attached. Perfect. A dear friend's husband died and she gave me his rollator. I put it in my trunk and took it out for the Van Gogh show. There were no seats in the showroom. I will be walking now with this aid and I will be able to sit after 20 feet when I get out of breath. At 86 I don't care what other people think. I have 13 year old knee double replacements and the pandemic has left me deconditioned. Hope I can now get out there and move. Also will be doing your balance exercises.
Hello, I have Chiari Malformation and I had decompression surgery in 2020. I now walk with a walker, because I tend to stoop over when I stand, sometimes. I do some walking around with a cane too. I'm 42 female. I don't know if I will ever be able to walk without any aid. Anyway, just thought I'd share 😊.
The other advantage of a walker is that it signals to the public that you are disabled and should be careful around you. I live in a busy, urban area where people race around. I still have to be very careful since many people are still walking too close and too fast around me. But it helps a bit.
A wonderful talk thank you, I’ve just taken delivery of a three wheel walking aid with the intention of having daily exercise. My balance is poor due to an acoustic neuroma. I have a lovely shopper, but can’t take that walking. I totally concur with embarrassment issues of people seeing me walking using an aid, when not really that long ago I used to walk my energetic Border Collie. I’m 71. Thank you again.
Wonderful!
This is wonderful advice. Thank you.
I don't care for the opinion of others. Vanity has no place in the safety of this life. I use a rollator in the house, too cumbersome for carrying in a car. So I have a cane to assist in walking outside of the house. A grocery cart offers me a sense of security. So I even take & retrieve the garbage & recycling bins in the push cart manner for security reasons. I'm grateful for the items available to assist in walking.
I too have found a foldable pushcart to be invaluable, after having a stroke 2 years ago. I can take my garbage out and take it into stores for shopping. It folds flat to go in car. It’s good support too though I do feel (and look) like a little old lady using it. 🙄. But then I am over 70‼️🤯
A recent MRI scan revealed that the foramina (holes) for the nerves emerging from my Sacroiliac are Too SMALL, and HAVE BEEN all my life!!!! Weird. Didn't keep me from high school gymnastics and competition diving in college. Now FIFTY years later, both legs are losing strength week by week, even after physical therapy for about six months of the last two years. The progressive weakness is definitely affecting my balance. I'm using a cane for any distance walking.
Some people - such as my weight-lifter brother - are concerned that depending on a walker or a cane MAKES THEM A TARGET for muggers. I understand that. But there are videos showing how your Wooden Cane can serve as an effective and legal defensive weapon. Doesn't mean you have to become a marshal artist, nor am I recommending you automatically fight in every circumstance. But if you're concerned about being intimidated, robbed, mugged, what not, GET SOME DEFENSIVE TRAINING!
Proper Professional Training will help your judgment and attitude, NOT steer you toward being some nutball AGGRESSOR. With that, your demeanor will suggest to most people who might target you that they should look somewhere else. NOT because you're a THREAT, but because you're paying attention to your surroundings, alert and prepared.
I haven't fallen and walk half an hour each day alone. I have had a hip redone as I dislocated a hip replacement 2yrs after I had it done. I managed to run with the hip replacement. I dislocated it because I am hyper mobile. I had a mild stroke after the dislocation, it affected my sight, recently 6yrs down the track I am having balance issue, especially in the house as my spacial perception is compromised. Have been told by my physio that a bad whiplash in my early 20s doing flying trapeze is the cause of the imbalance, not the stroke, have had 3 treatments so far not much difference. I am able to walk up steps pretty steep, with 5 sets of 8 steps in 48 seconds, but I can't walk down again. I am female and 80 and being told to use a cane by friends, not the physio. Exercise has been my lifestyle and identity, I have always had body control and confidence. I have not tripped on my walks but have to focus 100%. It is extremely discouraging not to be able to walk more than a couple of kms after running marathons, hiking and distance walking my dog. I have the confidence in my body to walk alone but others, who have not seen me walking suggest a stick, which I dont feel I need. I have peripheral neuropathy so my feet feel numb some days. I have hear"walking stick" so often now that it makes me feel uncertain. I walk daily to retain my confidence.
Hi everyone I m new to this blog I just turned 67 and love my walker I get around just about anywhere ,I hve had help from physio before being discharged from hospital so they've helped me a lot at home now can't go without it nz
Thank you ! I’m 74 & have been using a walker due to knee problems, I finally had a knee replacement 2 years ago but my other knee now is painful & I have bad bunions making my feet turn outward! So my balance is bad! I feel more safe & confident using my walker & I have never felt embarrassed using it! Also I don’t need to carry stuff as I have a basket on it! My oldest sister 81 yrs old has problems with her back yet said to me she wouldn’t be seen using one of them , why I asked, ‘I’m not old enough’ she answered 😮. I thank my mother-in-law for leaving this walker after she passed! I knew it would come handy one day. ❤
i had a stroke was working very hard mowing lawn tc did lokomat for 3 months. was able to get rid cane. im 63 now i actually fell grabbing the cane st 2 am broke hip dont want to fall had to have hip replacement never broke anything in my life had horses very active before stroke . im set back now hate the cane and the walker it hurts my hand and lean on cane. walking on treadmill plan to work my way back to no assistive device at normal pace dont want to fall obviously
As I see it, they are two problems canes keep you off-balance unless you have two of them one on each side. Walkers cause your posture to be bent over in front. Because old people don’t walk upright with them with their back straight, they walk by pushing the walker forward with their arms and then sort of stepping along. The goal of an assisted device is to hopefully get back to not having any assisted device.
Commendable effort and service to senior citizen
I can understand the embarrisment of walking with walker. Because thats how I felt until I felt I don't care what other people think. I'll walk with this where ever I go. And I found that people were kinder and very helpful from there on. Use your walker or your cane whatever your doctor recomends.
Many canes and walkers are set too low. To make sure I feel safe on my walker , because it is set higher. My husband put fishin sinkers, 1 in each front leg as a counter balance. I am walking upright and don’t want to fall backwards. I have a notebook of core exercises and use light weights on my ankles for strengthening. I work at trying to maintain balance, which was never good, due to my Ehlers Danlos. Haven’t had a fracture in 11 years thanks to better living through chemistry, drugs for osteo porosis.
There are many neat mobility options at fashionable canes without that old person look.
I endorse everything you say. I feel safer using a walker Nearest shop is 300 yards, can do a good shop for one, and safely walk back home. Am considering a walker race down to the Coop in the spring. Thankyou from pat in Jersey C. I.
My problem is my balance and being unstable im glad to hear what you say my doctor says i dint need a walker i feel i need feeling unsure i do use a cane i font want to being 59 yrs old is embarrassing.
88 yrs old here and have used a cane for the last 6-7 yrs. I do try to free style but have the assurance that I can adjust when i have my cane. I would probably just sit and waste away without it. If you care what other people think about you when you get old, You probably need more than a cane.
Thanks !
Thank you very good info
Thanks much for all your great tips! I confess I am a shopping cart addict. I also use a cane because I walk better with it BUT I also know that using any assisted device too much takes away from the way from the way I was born.. I need to get back to the way I was ...
Dan. Patient could walk approximately a mile with a walker to me being a CRASS person is the patient looking for empathy/pity by being rescued/saved by paramedics and ambulance than the embarrassment of a walker? Ya! Kenneth
At 77 I always use a cane, even in my house. I walk better and faster w/ a cane. I use my cane at Court with no issues. Feeling ashamed about the cane is silly. Even though I need no assistance I get assistance even though I politely decline it! People want to be helpful.
Hi, I also have 2 canes ,one for when I dress up ,and the other one for " real walking ".I also have a walker , it is good for short distances , and you have to be on smooth surfaces. Otherwise Disaster!!!
my parents REFUSE to use assistant devices in public.. ive used crutches and canes since i was a child with a broken leg.. i have no ego over it..
but my parents and grandparents just refuse.. its very interesting.. and very sad
I have MS and I avoid a walker or cane too. I don’t know why I don’t want to use these. I don’t even want it in the house where someone will see the device. Dumb, I know.
Guy across street fell DONE brain damage.Quit job and sold cars didn't want a cane !!! to Macho..
I am 99, fully mobile, but have a balance problem, my walker is my best friend🤗
Thank you Doug. I had a knee replacement 6 months ago and have not been able to walk unaided since the operation. I am hoping that eventually I may be able to discard the walker when I have built up enough strength to walk unaided, but not until then will I give up the walker as I know that I would fall.
I always walk with a cane or occasionally a walker. I am a shameless user of these devices. By the way I wear Depends and I don't give a damn who knows it.
Much appreciated your advice!
The shopping cart is how I determined I needed a cane to help me with balance and safer walking. I also exercise and go to exercise class.
I'm 59 years old I was embarrassed to use a cane let alone a walker but after a couple of falls due to lack of balance and mobility nowadays I use the walker
Walker has breaks, shopping carts don't, they are false security, I know, I fell with using one on 3 separatel loccasions in a shopping mall, now that is embarrassing. So, I just stick with a walker.
My 75year old mum long ago leaned on a shopping trolley in a supermarket, fell and broke her pelvis. The hospital sent her home to rest, (in agony) then 2 weeks later phoned to say come back in, we see on the X-ray that you have broken your pelvis. Prior to that she was the fittest slim 75year old in a gym and dancing display. Months to feel better and active again but destroyed her confidence! A Walker would have helped so much!
I only use the shopping cart for my back pain
The analogy isn't good because the front handle of the shopping cart--the part in front of your stomach-- is HIGHER and centred to your body. THAT is what walkers should be but aren't. A walker is not a good analogy for a grocery cart. Yes they do make you lean forward. They also make you rock side to side. They need to be redesigned.
And another really bad thing about a walker is it stops your arm movement. Our bodies are meant to work with arm movement opposite leg movement. That's walking. This other stuff is pushing something.
I have been using a walker for almost 2 years now and do not find it making my strength any or much better. I do go to the supermarket and shop but I have not used a shopping cart except once and it was a small one and i pushed it along with my walker, was slow but not any slower than my walker, and most shoppers kept asking me if I needed help which I replied no. I also saw a man b4 that and on the same day i was shopping in a wheelchair doing the same thing. I know a lady that has to use a wheelchair and had seen her do that before My daughter does take me to the store and does help but I generally use the cloth basket on my walker and a shopping basket but you can not get much in the shopping baskets and some stores do not have the shopping baskets I am 80 years old.
Hello. I am going to repost an answer I gave to someone else: Many people, who are already having balance issues, start using a walker and become dependent on it to help them balance. Once this starts, it is a one way path to having declining balance, because you aren't getting the challenging that your balance needs. I highly recommend that you try to incorporate balance challenging activities in your routine to regain some of your lost balance. Some of these video might help you!
The best exercise at reducing falls: ruclips.net/video/clI2BHDyc-k/видео.html
Four exercises that improve balance : ruclips.net/video/o6w-R2OBuig/видео.html
10 best exercises to improve balance ruclips.net/video/KtHuvxfwF4w/видео.html
I think Some are. My aunt has MS. She tried this new type of walker and they said it was so good. I forgot the name of it. They were forcing her to use it so they could market it. Well this thing made her go backwards and all the work she had helped her progress was for nothing. Her PT could see it too. It would
do the work for her and she was now weak in that one foot. This thing was not for her. It took months for to get the strength in her foot again.
Thanks 👍 for sharing And God 💕🙏❤️🙏❤️ Bless U Dr Doug 💖💞
I agree in toto with back walk which i have been doing for sometime with benefits
What if its not balance but disc pain and core strength. My mum leans heavy on rollator, arms outstretched in front like wagon shafts. Torso parallel to floor like a small horse. . her upper body/pecs/arms are strong but collapses in middle and scoliosis setting in where she sways. Certainly she shuffles the less she dances. so appreciate yr vids on that. But thats fear not balance. She has never fallen .but she is lazy in the core, and leaning away from disc pain. Post surgery the walker out in front like shopping trolly between her and the world definitely allowed her to avoid using her core and recover C of gravity.
Im seeking yr reflections on whether two poles, a two dimensional frame or a rear rolling walker that doesnt present to the eyes as a convenient landing surface for a large lazy whale might be better or need inventing. Disturbingly for reteaching the dementia brain the existing walkers inhibit the brain pathways of opposition swing imprinted as a package since crawling days. Any thoughts or recommendations on that?
Thank You.
People should be able to decide for themselves. Others should heed their their own 😮advice.
I've seen some people lean on a shopping cart. That's the only problem with a shopping cart.
How can I get my husband not to lean forward using his walker?
these exercises might help: The best exercise at reducing falls:
ruclips.net/video/clI2BHDyc-k/видео.html
Four exercises that improve balance :
ruclips.net/video/o6w-R2OBuig/видео.html
10 best exercises to improve balance
ruclips.net/video/KtHuvxfwF4w/видео.html
a broken hip is similar to the case of the chicken and the egg, ... do people fracture their hip because of a fall ... or do they fall because of a fracture of the hip ... so ... what really happens first ? the fall or the fracture ?
I find. Using a stick I am now stooping forward and shuffling feet
never mind good/bad, I can't go down the village/anywhere without mine and I can rest on the seat when the shuddering angina kicks in and wait 5.
Thank You