Transcript for:
Understanding Mobility Aids and Their Use

[Music] using the right Mobility Aid can reduce the risk of falling reduce pain compensate for neurological impairment and improve confidence unfortunately some of these AIDS are acquired through informal sources without seeking advice from a health professional as a general rule the larger the mobility Aid the more stable it becomes however the tradeoff is walking speed and access to different environments which is often reduced pickup frames also referred to as Zimmer static or Hopper frames have four legs and three sides the height of the frame can be fixed or adjustable the legs of these frames have rubber tips to reduce the risk of slippage some models have two wheels at the front or two skis on the rear legs two wheeled frames are often called modified pickup frames or Rollator frames unlike the wheels of the four-wheeled Walkers which can rotate these wheels are fixed which increases stability most frames can fold down for easy Transportation however fixed frames are often stronger and can have a higher weight limit people often use pickup frames when they've reduced confidence and reduced balance they are designed for people who can stand with light support but require additional support when walking frames are also commonly used for people with reduced weight bearing through one leg who require more support than crutches due to the stop start nature of these frames people using these frames expend more energy therefore these frames are more suitable for indoor use and shorter distances frames with small wheels can be more difficult to move on carpet fitting the rear legs with skis instead of stoppers on the back can be advantages the person using a pickup frame should wear the appropriate Footwear stand in an upright position with shoulders relaxed and Arms by their side the elbows should not have more than 10 to 20° bend the handles of the frame should be at the High of the wrist crease lift or push the frame forward about one step length without overstretching make sure all four rubber tips are firmly on the ground before stepping take two steps starting with the weaker leg leaning through the arms for increased support frames without wheels produce more of a halting pattern wheeled frames produce a more normal walking pattern and require less energy to lift the frame ensure the frame has been fully unfolded if recently transported or in a folded position do not pull on the frame to stand or sit as the frame can tip over avoid leaning too close to the front or side which may cause the user to overbalance if using a frame without wheels do not lift the frame and move your feet at the same time Mobility equipment must be inspected for signs of wear and tear always check for signs of bending deformity breakage or corrosion protruding or missing screws split or loose hand grips worn rubber tips the safe user weight limit sticker always wear well-fitting Footwear with nonslip soles no thongs loose slippers or socks when Outdoors take care of on wet or uneven surfaces frames should not be used on stairs when prescribing a Mobility Aid in the home check for and eliminate any trip hazards such as loose rugs power cords or cluttered Furniture if the person using the mobility Aid has stronger leg strength in one leg turn toward the stronger side to provide more support where possible these AIDS should all be prescribed by a trained health professional such as a physiotherapist or occupational therapist for more information contact your local hospital physiotherapy Department other options in the community may include private providers local pharmacies or local health equipment suppliers [Music]