Archive for the 'canes' Category
The lack of mobility can be a real source of frustration for those who are afflicted with leg injuries, paralysis or other ailments. Even though the mind is saying, “let’s go,” the body is saying, “no.” It’s only natural that many physically disabled individuals would turn to a mobilized scooter as a means of quick, efficient transportation. Bear in mind, however, that purchasing a power scooter is a serious investment that requires some forethought.
First of all, you should consult a doctor to make sure that you’re physically capable of operating a scooter. That includes the process of mounting and dismounting as well as steering and creating momentum. Ask yourself if you have a reliable source of transportation that’s large enough to hold a scooter. A minivan or pickup truck should be sufficient. Finally, consider shopping for a scooter that offers a warranty plan, especially if you’ll be using it outdoors. If a scooter doesn’t seem like a viable option, underarm crutches a more convenient solution.
If you have an elderly individual in your life, it can be difficult watching them lose their mobility. And once that mobility begins going downhill, there is also a quick loss of independence. After all, if you can’t get around, you can’t do many things for yourself anymore. That’s why it’s such a good idea to look into various aids that can help elderly individuals reclaim some of their independence.
One of the best devices for that very function is the walker or quad cane. Walkers are generally made of aluminum, and as such, they are lightweight enough for almost anyone to maneuver. But before you jump into any purchase, make sure that the walker is right for you. First and foremost, make sure that it is the right size. Having an adjustable walker is the easiest way to ensure the sizing will be just right. Also, depending on the strength of the individual, you’ll want to choose a walker with wheels for added maneuverability.
It never fails! Just when you think your cane is perfectly balanced against something, you (and everyone else) hears a loud clanking noise of the cane falling to the floor. Imaging having this cane holder with a powerful magnet which allows a cane to be attached to any metal surface, i.e., refrigerator, stove, car door. For crutches two sets are needed. Each kit includes one magnetic cane attachment, a metal fastening plate and a strip of double-sided tape. Stainless steel fastening plate can be attached to any non-metal surface - walls, doors, furniture - in frequently used areas, allowing for a convenient cane rest just about anywhere. Fastening plate has holes for permanent mounting (screws/nail not included) or can be attached using the double-sided tape.
It’s no fun not being able to get around, and mobility is a problem that affects millions of seniors around the world. Luckily, through advancements in elderly care there are a number of mobility solutions that allow you to get around even if your legs don’t work too well anymore. If you’re just looking to get around the house more easily, you might consider a quad cane which provides much more stability than your standard cane. For those seniors who can’t walk, an electric powerchair or scooter can help you get around the home, the grocery store, or the park. If you don’t have a car or can’t drive, often in urban and suburban locations there are buses that cater to seniors and will pick you up at your home or residence.
There’s never been so many opportunities for seniors to get around as there is now, so don’t just sit, find your mobility solution today!
Even with the best treatment, rheumatoid arthritis can slow you down. That’s why a good treatment plan doesn’t stop with just medicine and exercise. If you start to have trouble with everyday activities, help is available.
- A cane or crutch used on the opposite side of a painful knee or hip makes walking easier and makes the joint last longer.
- Braces and splints provide support to joints and decrease strain.
- Reachers are long rods with a grip handle on one end and pincers (like a claw, used to grab) on the other. They let you pick up small objects without having to bend over or reach uncomfortably.
- Elevated chair legs make it easier to get in and out of your seat. The chairs you have can usually be fitted with extenders.
Assistive Devices for the Bathroom
- A tub bench or shower seat lets you bathe more comfortably and reduces the chance of falls. Nonskid shower mats will make the tub safer, too.
- Grab bars make it easier to get in and out of the bath.
- A raised toilet seat with side rails reduces the strain of getting on and off.
- Long-handled sponges help you to wash your legs and feet without bending. Also, large sponges are easier to grip than washcloths.
- Easy-to-pull shower curtains are better than heavy shower doors.
- An electric toothbrush with a fat handle is easier than a regular toothbrush.
- By putting a seat in front of your sink you can avoid leaning forward; the same with using a freestanding mirror for grooming.
• Cane or walking stick: The key here is getting the cane fitted to the right height. Measurements are crucial to having the best fit possible. Ideally, when you hang your arm by your side, your hand should hang just over the top of the cane, your wrist lining up with the very top of the cane. An adjustable cane is easiest for ensuring the correct height, but if you are a long-time user, you may choose a custom cane, cut to your specific height, or even a walking stick to add a little style.
When you grasp the top of the cane, your elbow should bend at about
30 degrees. If you are using a cane because of weakness on one side of
your body, place the cane in the hand of your stronger side.
• Crutches: There are basically two types of crutch styles––under the arm
(auxiliary) or cuffed to the forearm (Lofstrand or Canadian crutches). A
proper fit and some instruction on safe use is important. Seek the
assistance of a health care provider when first using crutches. Long-time
crutch users have found the style tip (the rubber tip on the bottom of the
crutch) and the grip style for your hand can add to overall comfort for
long-term use.
• Walkers: Walkers are currently available in many styles––pick-up walkers,
which have no wheels; sliders, which have small skis or tennis balls on
the rear legs; or “rollator” walkers, which employ four wheels. Some
walkers use three wheels, are triangular in shape, and offer somewhat
less support, but are not as bulky; four-wheel walkers are primarily
designed for indoor use. More robust walkers that employ four larger
wheels and a full basket are also available and may even include a fold-
down seat.
Being as mobile as our abilities allow is essential for the independence of all people. Wheelchairs Abound has a wide selection of products to help people with mobility challenges keep moving.
Whether you or someone you love needs a quad cane, a walker, a scooter, or a wheelchair, Wheelchairs Abound has whatever it takes to stay engaged in life and on the go!