Walker Safety: How to Use a Walker Properly

As we age, mobility can become challenging. Our bones change and weaken. Balance is not as simple as it once was, making fall prevention important.

Using a walker is a great way to increase mobility for elderly people or those who may have a disability that makes getting around difficult. However, proper use of the walker is crucial to stay safe and make sure the walker does not cause the exact problem it was meant to prevent.

How to Use a Walker Properly

The first step in using a walker properly is choosing the right one. There are many different styles of walker, including:

• The standard folding walker. When you picture a walker, this is likely what pops up in your head. These walkers are very stable and can support the user’s weight, but need to be lifted when walking, which can become tiring. They are light and easily portable. 
• The two wheel walker has two wheels in the front and rubber tips in the back. Like the standard walker, these are foldable and easy to carry. While the wheels make it easier to move, they can also be a fall hazard, and are therefore not ideal for those that need to put their entire weight on the walker. 
• The three wheel walker looks sportier, almost like a scooter. They sometimes come with a basket for carrying belongings and are easier to navigate down hallways and around tight corners. 
• The four wheel walker comes with a built in chair, making it popular for the on-the-go senior who still needs some support. They are a bit more difficult to fold when traveling but are ideal for seniors who don’t need to put their entire weight on the device.

When choosing the size of the walker, the handles should land right at the wrist when the user is standing up straight inside the walker. You can also get more comfortable grips than the ones that come standard with the walker. 

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Tips for Using the Walker Properly

Now that you have selected the right walker for you – likely with the help of your doctor or another healthcare provider – now you need to learn how to use the walker correctly. It can be a little more complicated than it looks. These walker safety tips should help:

• Stand up as straight as possible when using the walker. This will help protect your back from strain or injury. 
• Step inside the walker, do not walk behind it. 
• Don’t push the walker out too far in front of you. 
• Take small steps and take your time when turning. 
• Be mindful of the ground – the walker may snag on uneven surfaces or carpeting. 
• Keep the grips, wheels and tips of the walker clean, especially after using it outside. 

When using a walker properly, it can have huge benefits to seniors who would otherwise struggle with mobility or even be confined to the home. You can support your loved one who uses a walker by walking next to or behind them, so you can easily assist them if they stumble or need additional support. 

To learn more about our home care services, contact our caregiving team today at 1-800-GRISWOLD or find a Caregiver near you.