Walker, Cane, Or Scooter: Evaluating Your Options

Consumers have plenty of options when it comes to mobility aids that make the most sense for them. From walkers and canes to motorized scooters, consider carefully your living situation, lifestyle, and needs to find reliable aids and equipment from reputable sellers that can improve your overall quality of life.  

When it comes down to it, consumers have a vast array of mobility aids, equipment, and adaptive devices to choose from. All enhance accessibility but which one is right for you? If you have mobility issues, talk to a reputable mobility retail professional to further pursue and explore your options. 

 Walker, cane, or scooter? Here are some choices to consider: 

Walkers 

Walkers are used for a variety of reasons by a range of people. There are different kinds of walkers, as one may expect, and each type is designed for specific needs. For instance, knee walkers are effective aids for moving about with an injury to the foot, heel, or ankle. Four-wheeled walkers with seats may be used by seniors that can move about, but that tire quickly or that are at increased risk for a fall. Additionally, there are three-wheeled styles of walkers as well as a wide array of accessory items to make the walker more conducive to the user’s lifestyle, such as baskets, bags, and supportive cushions.  

Canes 

Sure, anyone can use a cane or walking stick. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to acquire without insurance or a medical prescription. The key is in using a cane properly. When used incorrectly, a cane may be more of an impediment than an aid.  

The first order of business for a cane carrier is to adjust the height. If you are using the cane for an injured leg or foot, carry the cane in the hand on the opposite side of your ailment; walk as you normally would. Move forward with your strong or uninjured foot at the same time that you move the cane. If you find that a cane is not supportive enough for comfortable mobility, you may need to consider a walker instead.   

Remember to never use a cane or walking stick for stability when standing or sitting down, as this may cause you to fall. Again, too much reliance on a cane may merit consideration of more supportive aids, like walkers or scooters.  

Scooters 

Speaking of scooters, these devices have come a long way in recent years. They are far more prevalent than they were previously, and buyers have greater options and selections. There are three and four-wheeled scooters. The best way to hone in on the right scooter is to try them for yourself. Consider paying a visit to the showroom of Pacific Mobility to try one for yourself!   

Ramps 

There are plenty of other options to enhance mobility and accessibility, too. For instance, have you thought about investing in a ramp? Depending on the nature of your needs, you may find a temporary or portable ramp to be just right. Here are a few ramps that could be perfect for your living situation: 

• Door Threshold Ramps are found widely in different sizes constructed of rubber and aluminum. These make it slightly easier to navigate and traverse a doorway or threshold when you have challenges walking or raising your legs.  
• Folding ramps are easy to take with you for better access wherever you are! Look for folding single and tri-fold styles that can fit in a regular-sized car or truck with ease.  
• Aluminum Modular Ramps are another consideration. This option is more of a system than a ramp, professionally installed and lasting a lifetime. Talk to a qualified mobility retailer to find out more. 

Think about how ramps may make your current living situation easier and more comfortable. These options also help seniors age in place, they may not need them now but could later on.  

Lift Chairs 

The list of mobility aids goes on and on. What are you looking for? Think outside the box and consider what you do each and every day. For example, a quality lift chair that gently raises and lowers the user to sit and stand may be life-altering. Furthermore, these chairs reduce the risks of a fall and lower the chance of fall-related injuries which can provide great peace of mind. It is recommended that when you are shopping for a lift chair that you plan on trying them out and sitting in them for the best results.  

So, which mobility aid or device is right for you walker, cane, scooter, or something else? Before you spend time and effort buying the wrong equipment, talk to the team at Pacific Mobility; we are accessibility experts! We look forward to finding the right aids and equipment to enhance your accessibility and improve your quality of life. Call or visit today!