What Is a Walker?
Walkers are usually associated with people who have disabilities as well as the elderly. However, there are many situations in which an individual may benefit from the use of a walker. If you are suffering from decreased weight-bearing capacity, fatigue, injury, or poor balance, a walker can make your life a lot more comfortable.
With its walking frames or wheels, a person can have additional support as they move. A walker is different from a wheelchair despite serving a very similar purpose. Just like other medical equipment, people need to regularly check their walker for wear or damage. This way, the user is sure that it won’t crack or break under stress.
It is vital to purchase a walker that fits your arms comfortably so it won’t cause pressure or strain on your shoulders. Ensuring that your walker is also the right height is a must for your comfort when using your walker.
Benefits You Gain from Using a Walker
Here’s a look at some of the advantages you gain by using a walker in your daily life.
Support
A walker is something you can rely on for support as you take your morning stroll or move around your home. With a walker, you can have the peace of mind that your risk of falling is significantly lowered. Most people with a walker use it as a precaution for unexpected mobility issues. Considering this, a walker is a great investment to make if need support when getting around.
With a walker, you bear less weight and stress on your body. Through this, you will gain more stamina and energy to power through your day.
Independence
A walker will enable you to stand in an upright position for a long period. Because you can move freely, you can participate in just about any activity. Although it may be difficult to adjust to life as you start using your walker, you will have the confidence to do activities without the help of a friend or family when you become accustomed to the device. Generally, getting used to your walker does not require a long transition period.
By being more independent, you can adjust your schedule according to what you want, without relying on people to help you.
Increased physical activity
Often those with disabilities or the elderly can find it difficult to reach moderate levels of activity. However, this is crucial because engaging in low-intensity physical activity provides many important health benefits.
When you have a walker, you can improve your circulation and respiration. This happens because being in an elevated position extends your body and lets you expand your lungs. Because of gravity, a walker also does wonders for your gastrointestinal function, especially because your torso and pelvis will be stretched.
When you stretch your muscles and joints, you can increase your muscle tone, and decrease muscle imbalances and weakness. A walker will also improve the range of motion for your lower body. This piece of medical equipment is also beneficial if you want to improve bone density since it facilitates better movement for your muscular system.
Social interaction
When you stand and walk on your own, you will grant yourself the opportunity to interact more with others. You can communicate and participate in activities that you are passionate about.
When you stand upright, you will be able to look at your loved ones at eye level. This helps achieve an enhanced sense of control and connection. You will also gain a better sense of wellbeing through social interactions. In time, you will notice that your self-image and self-esteem will increase.
What to Consider When Getting a Walker
Usage
Before you get a walker, assess when, where, and how you will use it. Only then can you find the perfect walker suited to your needs. For example, if you regularly walk on uneven surfaces, a walker with wheels may suit best. For people lacking upper body strength, it is best to avoid a walker without wheels, since lifting the walker can put stress on the body.
Keep in mind that even if you purchase a walker with wheels, you still need to be control of its pace and direction.
Portability
Fit
Types of Walkers
In this section, you will discover the two major types of walkers on the market today. We will first consider standard walkers and then examine wheeled walkers. We have included some of the best models available at ILS for each type.
Standard walkers
Standard Walkers Available at ILS
Invacare Mobility Folding Walker
Days Folding Walking Frame
Wheeled Walkers
Wheeled Walkers at ILS
Days Forearm Walker
Drive Medical Carbon Fibre Nitro Elite Super Light Weight Seat Walker
Folding easily to ultra-compact size and sold with a deluxe zippered bag, the Nitro Elite CF is a convenient on-the-go mobility option. In addition, this walker is also equipped with an EZ clip cane holder to allow you to account for the walking cane whilst using the walker.
Hero Medical Tutor Plus Forearm Walker
Royale Seat Walker
Hero Medical Quad Seat Walker
Hero Medical Knee Walker
Days Seat Walker
Able Life Space Saver Rollator
Find Your New Walker at ILS
** This post was originally published on https://ilsau.com.au/regain-your-independence-with-a-walker-from-ils/