Aid for Mobility: Determining the Appropriate Use of Walkers vs. Canes
Struggling to navigate through life? Walkers and canes are here to lend a helping hand! These mobility aids are designed to support older adults or those with disabilities who need a little extra assistance with balance and mobility.
The decision between a cane and a walker depends on the level of support you need, your lifestyle, and your budget. Chronic conditions that can develop with age, like arthritis, can make mobility challenging, and falls can lead to serious injuries. But, don't worry! Assistive devices can help you maintain your independence and reduce the risk of falling.
Let's take a look at the differences between canes and walkers, when and how to use each, and how to choose the best one for you.
Comparison of Walkers vs. Canes
| Device | Pros | Cons | Conditions | Cost ||--------|--------|-------|---------------|-------|| 1-legged cane | -Aids balance-Adjustable | -For minimal weight bearing only -Some have a curved handle that may be difficult to grasp | -Mild balance issues-Mild to moderate arthritis of the lower limbs | $10-$40 || 3-4 legged cane | -Offers greater help with balance-Can bear more weight-Adjustable | -Heavier-More cumbersome-May be harder to use on stairs | -One-sided muscle weakness (hemiparesis) or more significant balance issues | $15-$40 || Standard walker | -Stable-Foldable | -No wheels-Needs lifting with each step | -For conditions that affect the function of muscles or nerves or fractures | $20-$60 || 2-4 wheeled walker| -Easier to move-May have a seat and basket for comfort | -Less stable than standard-Not foldable | -Issues affecting the spinal cord, conditions that slow down mobility like heart or lung diseases | $35-$100 |
Cane or Walker: Which Medical Condition Requires Which?
-helps with balance-adjustable
Canes and walkers offer stability during mobility. Canes can help people with minor balance or stability issues, those experiencing weakness in their legs or trunk, or those living with an injury or pain from conditions such as arthritis. On the other hand, someone with more significant balance and mobility issues might prefer a walker. It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate mobility aid.
-for minimal weight bearing only-some have a curved handle that some may find difficult to grasp and cause pain, especially for people with joint or muscle conditions
Types of Canes and Walkers
-mild balance issues-mild to moderate arthritis of the lower limbs
Standard canes are typically made of wood or aluminum with a rubber tip and a hook-shaped or flat handle. They are best suited for those needing minimal assistance. Canes with three or four legs can stand independently, offering greater stability for users who experience pain on one side. They also have "sit-to-stand" canes with a secondary grip, providing extra help for getting up or sitting down.
$10-$40
There are three types of walkers: the standard walker with four rubber-tipped legs, the two-wheeled walker with front wheels and back sliders, and the four-wheeled walker (also known as a rollator), which allows for a more natural gait and features such as brakes, a seat, and a basket. Each walker type has benefits and drawbacks depending on the user's specific needs and abilities.
Is a Walker Better than a Cane?
-offers greater help with balance than a standard cane-can bear more weight-adjustable
Effective use of a cane requires sufficient strength to walk consistently and securely while maintaining balance. While a cane can assist with minor balance problems, it requires the user to be able to steady themselves if they begin to slip. On the other hand, walkers are more appropriate for those with a more significant balance impairment. Using a walker allows users to shift some or all of their body weight away from their lower body while moving, making it easier to maintain balance.
-heavier-more cumbersome-may be harder to use on stairs
When to Switch from a Walker to a Cane (or Vice Versa)?
-one-sided muscle weakness (hemiparesis) or more significant issues with balance
Determining when to switch from a walker to a cane or vice versa involves several factors. Ask yourself:
$15-$40
- Has my or my loved one's balance improved or worsened?
- Has my or my loved one's endurance and strength improved or worsened?
- What does the doctor recommend?
- Is my or my loved one's daily routine more appropriate for a walker or a cane?
Where to Get a Cane or a Walker?
-stable-foldable
A person may be able to purchase their preferred mobility aid directly from a supplier or through their insurance company or a non-profit organization for older adults or people with disabilities.
-no wheels-needs lifting with each step
Walkers and Canes: Cost Comparison
-for conditions that affect the function of muscles or nerves or for fractures
According to American Family Physician, canes generally cost between $10 and $40. Walkers can be a little pricier, ranging from $20 to $100.
$20-$60
Durable Medical Equipment (DME) and Medicare
Medicare considers walkers and canes as Durable Medical Equipment (DME). A person can rent or buy a cane or a walker through Medicare Part B if they are medically necessary and needed for home use, provided the doctor accepting Medicare writes the prescription, and the person purchases the device from a Medicare-approved supplier.
-easier to move-may have a seat and basket for comfort
Using a Cane vs. a Walker Safely
-less stable than standard-not foldable
No matter which mobility device you choose, it's important to ensure you can use it safely. Hold the handle at wrist level with relaxed arms, and maintain an upright posture without leaning forward.
-issues affecting the spinal cord, conditions that slow down mobility like heart or lung diseases
Cane Safety
$35-$100
- Hold the cane with the hand opposite the injured or painful side when standing.
- Place the cane ahead, step forward with the painful or injured leg, and follow with the other leg when walking.
- When going upstairs, step up using the stronger leg first, and hold on to the handrail. When going down, place the cane down first, then the weaker leg, followed by the stronger one.
Walker Safety
- Position the walker one step ahead, move the injured or painful leg to the middle, and then bring the stronger leg to meet it, taking small, slow steps.
- Safely sit down by backing up to the chair, feeling for the seat, and lowering yourself slowly down. To stand, push up with your arms and grasp the walker's handgrips. Do not use the walker to help stand up, as it may give way.
Takeaway
Assistive devices are essential for maintaining independence and reducing the risk of falling. Whether you need a cane or a walker depends on your specific needs, including the severity of your balance issues, the extent of your weakness, and the level of support required for safe mobility. Consultation with a healthcare provider is advisable to determine the most appropriate mobility aid.
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- For minor balance issues or mild arthritis of the lower limbs, a 1-legged cane might be the best option, providing aid in balance and being adjustable, though some may find certain handles difficult to grasp.
- When dealing with more significant balance and mobility issues, a standard walker with foldable legs and no wheels may be more beneficial, as it offers greater stability, especially for conditions affecting the function of muscles or nerves or for fractures.
- For those who require a device that bears more weight and offers greater help with balance, a 3-4 legged cane could be the better choice, while walkers provide a more natural gait and may have additional features like brakes, seats, and baskets.
- Navigating between canes and walkers depends on assessment of balance, endurance, strength, and the user's specific needs and lifestyle, requires a consultation with a healthcare provider.
- The cost for canes and walkers can vary, with costs for canes typically ranging from $10 to $40, while walkers can range from $20 to $100.
- Assistive devices like canes and walkers may be obtained through Medicare Part B, as they are considered Durable Medical Equipment, provided the doctor accepts Medicare and the device is purchased from a Medicare-approved supplier.
- Regardless of the chosen mobility device, it's essential to use safety precautions when walking, ensuring proper posture, grip positioning, and following stair rules to maintain stability and prevent accidents.
