Yeah walking! It’s what we do. Ambulation is a basic human skill. You nailed it early on, but that was a very long time ago. Since then, you have been striding along, one foot in front of the other, without giving it another thought. It was great. It gave you an unbelievable sense of freedom, until the unthinkable happened. A fall, or a near fall, shattered your confidence.
It wasn’t your first fall, but hopefully it will be your last. When you were young you just picked yourself up, dusted yourself off, and went on about your business. It’s different now.
Walking can be difficult for dependent people, like us, for a variety of reasons (illness, accidents, or just old age). A simple act has become more than a little challenging.
Your ability to navigate through your world has changed. You need help. If you are brave enough to ask, you will be introduced to the world of physical therapy and mobility aids (canes, crutches, walkers, rollators, or even scooters).
Thanks to mobility aids many dependent people remain active and independent. Do some research. You may think that selecting a mobility aid is a piece of cake. They are readily available, and you may be tempted to accept used ones from relatives or friends, but not so fast. If you are serious about independent living, you need to ask your doctor for a Physical Therapy referral.
A professional therapist will consider your needs and will help you select the exercises or the right appliances for you. This is important. A cane or walker that is not the right fit can do more harm than good. A borrowed appliance, set at the wrong height, can cause unnecessary strain on your back, wrist, knuckles, elbows or shoulders.
Don’t forget mobility scooters. Mobility scooters have gained considerably popularity of late. You see them everywhere, indoors and out. Mobility scooters enhance mobility, maneuver easily. and are travel friendly.
A good walking aid is not a step backwards but a leap forward. It can give you the confidence that you need to get out and about again.