Submitted on Thursday July 16th, 2015
For many older adults, use of a walker carries great stigma. It's a symbol of disability and often of isolation. In actual fact, a walker can be the key to staying safely and actively engaged with favorite activities.
A walker is superior to a cane because
- it can bear up to 50% of a person's weight. A cane can hold only 25% of one’s weight.
- it supports good posture. A walker keeps a person upright by reinforcing both sides of the body. A cane steadies only one side.
- it is designed for people with moderate to severe balance problems or those with generalized weakness and arthritis. A cane is best for only minor balance problems or injuries.
- it may include a basket or other device for carrying items.