Sometimes it can be hard to admit that you need help. However, if you’re an older adult with trouble standing or decreased mobility, then you need help. It’s true that some are more prone to needing canes, with those suffering from osteoarthritis making up more than 20% of cane users because of limited mobility. However, almost 7 million Americans use assisting devices like walking canes to help improve mobility as a whole.
One of the most common reasons older people are asked to get a cane is to prevent falling and increase their mobility. While it is true that not every older person in the United States needs a walking cane, it’s also true that falls are a serious problem among that age group. Below are some fast facts about falling.
- Over 50% of the falls among older adults take place at home.
- And older adult is treated for a fall in the emergency room every 11 seconds. And every year, over two million senior citizens have to visit the emergency room for injuries caused by falling.
- Dizziness and unsteadiness when standing or walking are the two most common causes of falls in the elderly.
Canes are not meant to feel like a ball and chain, but a third leg to help you stand. They are designed to give you better mobility and keep you on your feet so that you reduce your risk of falling. Even if you don’t need a walking cane, they can give you something stable to hold on to while you stand up. And if you’re going to be using it, you might as well figure out which one is the right fit for you.
There are a variety of different canes available, including folding canes if you’re prone to traveling a lot. There are palm grip canes to simply give you a better hold on them when you need them. There are even extra tall canes to make sure that regardless of your height, you can get the same support. Canes also come in a variety of different styles including those with horse heads, brass, and other stylish options. So regardless of which one you choose, you can be sure that you’ll be happy with it. And that’s what matters most.
