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Using a Walker Doesn't Mean Losing Your Independence
Motivo Staff |
Staying mobile when using a walker.
Adjusting to life with a walker or rollator can be a difficult transition for many people. Some may fear they’ll lose their mobility, independence, and even identity. But life with a mobility aid doesn’t need to be so challenging. Here are some tips that have helped our customers maintain their mobility and their independence.
1) Get some new wheels.
If your doctor approves, and you’re comfortable using one, take the plunge and invest in a rollator. Rollators have three or four wheels and are vastly superior to traditional walkers for walking any significant distance. The best rollators will have wheels that are at least seven inches tall to make traversing minor obstacles, such as curbs and sidewalk joints, much easier. You should also look for a rollator that feels very sturdy and stable. This is a critical component of rollators that you shouldn’t overlook. The stability of your rollator will allow for greater use and movement, meaning you’ll be more mobile.
2) Get up close.
Choose a walker that allows you to get as close as possible to counters, cabinets, chairs, car doors and the like. Staying mobile means staying independent, and if your mobility aid prohibits you from completing every-day tasks, you may find your independence compromised. Many rollators and walkers force you to reach over them to grab what you need—that’s not only inconvenient, it can be a safety risk, too. So if your walker or rollator forces you to bend uncomfortably when using it, choosing a new one is more than worthwhile.
3) Use it or you might lose it…your mobility, that is.
When you do choose a walker or rollator, choose one you’re comfortable using. That means that if you’re embarrassed by the grey aluminum and tennis-ball equipped walker your grandparents used, choose a different one.
More importantly, make sure you actually use the walker or rollator as your doctor orders. Many people refuse to use their mobility aids and choose instead to simply limit their movement only to what’s absolutely necessary. Often, this leads to further reduction in their mobility, making recovery harder or independence more unlikely. Even worse, not using a walker when you need one can increase the likelihood of falls and the potential for injury.
We’re not doctors, so don’t take our word as medical advice. We do know something about mobility, however, and if you want to check out our newest product, the Tour, visit us at www.motivolife.com!