Independent Living: How Mobile Are You?

 If you are going to continue to live in your own home you need to be able to get around safely.  You may already be using some of the mobility aids available, but I would like to offer a few tips that you may not be aware of.  Canes are pretty common aids and hopefully if you are using one already, it has been fitted for you by a Physical Therapist.  If your first cane was a gift or a hand-me-down from your favorite uncle, it may be too high for you.   A cane that isn’t the right height can actually throw you off balance and make you less stable on your feet.  Another pitfall is the handle.  The common cane handle, according to the authors of “Home Sweet Home,” by Dennis R. La Buda M.A. and Vicki Schmall, Ph.D. (Gerontology specialists), has a U-shaped neck. This type of handle can be awkward to grasp and less than successful.  Physical Therapists often recommend a Ball or T-shaped handle because they are easier for people with limited hand strength to hold.  The cane should also have a suction tip to provide traction and keep you from slipping.

 

Standing and walking can be quite tiring.  You may not be aware that there are canes with attached seats.  These canes are handy if you are walking any distance or enjoying a stroll outdoors.  You can also find a cane with a forearm cuff that works well if your wrist and hand is not particularly strong.  Another model is the Quad-style cane (four legs mounted to the cane shaft), which is heavier and provides more stability. Last but not least, check out my article on decorative canes.  If you are style conscious and want to have a little fun while you are at it, you can have a cane or several canes customized just for you.  Using a mobility aid doesn’t have to be boring.

 

If you need more support than a cane can offer or if balance is a problem, a walker may be a better choice.  Walkers support about 50% of your body weight and are considerably more stable.  Walkers come in many styles and models, some of them look as sleek as the baby strollers joggers that you see on the bike/walking trails these days.  Walkers come kitted out with all sorts of attachments such as seats, trays and baskets so that you can carry most anything that you might need with you.

 

There are a few home safety precautions to keep in mind if you are using a walker or cane.  For example: reduce or eliminate door thresholds, install low pile carpeting, remove throw rugs and secure electrical cords to reduce tripping hazards.  Be sure you learn how to navigate stairs with your cane and don’t try doing this unless you have a banister and wall mounted hand rail to steady yourself against. If you do have multiple stairs in your home, consider installing a stair lift or home elevator.  Expensive perhaps, but how important is it to you to stay in your own home?  Don’t forget ramps and consider reconfiguring your home so that your living quarters are all on one level.

 

 Is it a struggle for you to get into and out of your chair, sofa or bed?   I have seen many seniors struggle with this one and it is something to think about if you live alone.   Sometimes all it takes is raising the height of your furniture. Chair leg extenders and wooden studs can be added to existing furniture or you might consider getting one of those marvelous electrically powered chairs.  You should be doing exercises to strengthen those arm and leg muscles too.

 

 A lot of seniors fuss about spending money on themselves, but if you want to be safe, happy and independent it may be necessary.  No matter what you spend, it will very likely not be nearly as costly as moving into a care facility.