Is My Elderly Relative Using Their Cane Right?

There’s no doubt that canes can give elderly people a new lease on life as they gain support and stability when walking. However, when seniors use canes improperly and without training, they can actually put themselves at a higher risk of falling. Instead of struggling with mobility aids, seniors need to learn from a doctor, physical therapist or occupational therapist about the proper way to walk with a cane. Family caregivers that have seen their elderly loved one struggle with their cane need to start the conversation about using the cane the right way so that it is a help and not a hindrance.

Elder Care Riverhead. NY: Senior Mobility

One of the most common problems with elderly adults and canes is that the cane is not the right height. If it is too small, the user must hunch over and if it is too tall, they won’t get the full support they need.

Measuring a cane is the best way to find the right size. The elderly person should be wearing their walking shoes and standing straight. Their arms should be hanging loosely at their sides. In this position, the top of the cane should come up to the elderly person’s wrist joint.

The cane should always be on the dominant or strongest side of the body. That way, the elderly person’s body weight is going to the strongest and most supportive side rather than the weakest side. Many people mistakenly use the cane on the weak side of the body, but medical experts say that this isn’t as effective. The cane goes on the strong side but moves with the weak side.

Coordinating with a cane on flat terrain is not too difficult, but when it comes to climbing stairs, it’s helpful to remember the proper technique for maximum support. When climbing up the stairs, seniors should lead with their strong leg, then use the cane and the weaker leg together. When descending the stairs, the weaker leg and the cane go first, followed by the stronger leg. It may take some practice to get the proper technique, but it’s worth spending the time to master it.

Family caregivers and seniors should make sure that the doctors and therapists advise on the right cane to use and how they should use it. Of course, as part of the elderly care plan, the doctors will consider an elderly adult’s physical and mental abilities. Caregivers can reduce the risk of slip and fall accidents in the senior’s living space by clearing clutter and eliminating rugs and protruding furniture that may cause tripping.

When it comes to elderly care, family caregivers need to do whatever it takes to provide their elderly loved ones with all the tools they need to remain happy and healthy. When mobility becomes an issue, learning how to use a cane can give seniors the extra support they need to stay active.

If you or an aging loved one is considering Elder Care in Riverhead, NY, call the caring staff at Artful Home Care today at 631-685-5001.

Source:

http://www.arthritis.org/