[2022] How to choose crutches for the elderly? 5 key points for choosing crutches for the elderly and walking sticks for the elderly

2022 Hong Kong Cane Recommendations for Seniors｜Choosing the Right Cane Length｜A Cane-Buying Guide

As people age, many older adults experience declining muscle strength and balance throughout the body due to aging, or have mobility issues caused by conditions such as stroke. This can make walking difficult.

Older adults with reduced muscle strength and coordination often need a mobility aid to walk safely. However, choosing an unsuitable aid or using one incorrectly can cause injury.

To help older adults with limited mobility maintain their basic independence and even enjoy a normal social life outdoors, mobility aids are important tools for supporting their activities. The right aid can improve stability and support when standing or walking, and reduce the risk of further injury from a fall.

Canes are a common type of mobility aid, but many people do not take the time to learn how to use them properly after purchasing one. Over time, this can easily lead to injury.

That is why Lohas Elderly Care has put together this guide to choosing a cane, covering the five basic things to know before you buy one.

Steps for Choosing a Cane

Learn about the types of canes

A cane is the mobility aid most commonly used by older adults. A standard cane can support approximately 20–30% of a person's body weight. The extra point of support improves stability while walking and reduces the load on the lower limbs. Canes are suitable for older adults who can go out independently but have some difficulty walking. The main types include:

• T-handle canes
• Multi-legged canes
• Folding canes

 

1. T-handle canes

With a T-handle cane, it is easier to lean your body weight on the cane. The angle between the handle and shaft allows the wrist to apply force more effectively.

Suitable for older adults who have some difficulty walking but are in good health, with good overall muscle strength and endurance, and a good sense of balance.

2. Multi-legged canes

Multi-legged canes offer greater stability. They are suitable for walking recovery training for patients who have difficulty standing, as well as for people with leg or foot impairments.

A quad cane provides greater stability and is suitable for older adults with somewhat reduced muscle strength or balance. It is also less likely to fall over, reducing the risk of older adults bending down to pick it up.

3. Folding canes

Folding canes were developed from T-handle canes. They are easier to carry than standard T-handle canes, making them more suitable for travel.

Suitable for older adults who are in good health, with good overall muscle strength and endurance, and a good sense of balance, as a cane to have on hand just in case.

Cane weight, handle, and wrist strap

1. Weight

A cane is not necessarily better just because it is lighter. For older adults with poor balance or those who have had a stroke, a cane with some weight can actually make walking easier.

2. Handle

Cane handles come in different styles, such as curved and flat. How comfortable and natural the handle feels in use is an important factor when choosing one.

3. Cane wrist strap

When buying a single-point cane, consider getting a wrist strap to prevent it from slipping out of your hand and falling to the ground, reducing the risk of falling when bending down to pick it up.

Choosing the right cane size

How to choose a cane:

• Stand naturally with both arms hanging at your sides. Measure the distance from your wrist to the ground.
• Place the cane tip 20 cm in front of your body. Your elbow should be bent at an angle of 30–40 degrees. This gives you the right cane length.
• (Height ÷ 2) + 3 cm = standard cane length

 

1. Height and cane length chart

Refer to the height and cane length chart below to find a suitable cane length based on the older adult's height.

*Measurements may vary slightly depending on the user's posture and preferences. Thank you for your understanding!

Using a cane safely

Have you figured out how to choose the right cane for yourself?

As the saying goes, “Safety is everyone's responsibility; happiness belongs to every family.”

Now, let's go over some cane safety tips.

1. Walking

1. Move the cane forward.
2. Move the affected leg forward between the two crutches, keeping it in line with them.
3. Then swing the unaffected leg forward and place it ahead of the crutches.
4. Repeat to walk forward (crutches > affected leg > unaffected leg).

2. Standing up

1. Keep the unaffected leg on the floor and move your body forward to the edge of the chair or bed.
2. Hold the cane handle with the hand on the affected side, and use the hand on the unaffected side to hold the chair armrest or edge of the bed.
3. Push down with both hands while using your unaffected leg to stand up. Make sure you are steady.

3. Going upstairs

1. Hold the stair rail or wall on one side.
2. Use both hands for support as you step up one stair with your unaffected leg.
3. Then bring both crutches and the affected leg up to the same stair.
4. Repeat to continue up the stairs.

4. Going downstairs

1. Hold the stair rail or wall.
2. Support yourself with both hands as you move the affected leg down.
3. Once steady, use both hands for support and move the unaffected leg down one step.
4. Repeat to continue down the stairs.

Cane safety tips

1. Use your cane correctly

Do not lean your armpits on the top of the cane. If you feel numbness, pain, or discomfort in your armpits, correct your cane technique immediately. If you are using it correctly but still feel pressure in your armpits, the cane may be too long and need to be shortened.

2. Make sure all parts are secure

Make sure the cane has a rubber tip, a padded shoulder rest, and a handle. Check that these parts are secure, not loose, and not badly damaged. Replace them if necessary.

If your hands tend to become sore or tired, add extra padding to the cane handle.

3. Watch out for hazards on the ground

Avoid walking on slippery surfaces. If you have no choice, walk as slowly as possible.

Rugs or mats laid flat on the floor can easily cause slips. Move them out of the way, and do not use your cane on them.

4. Wear protective footwear

When walking with a cane, wear supportive shoes—or go barefoot rather than wear slippers.

When using a walking stick, the handle may chafe the skin on your arm and chest. You can use lotion or talcum powder to prevent skin irritation and inflammation.

Summary

There are hundreds of types of walking sticks on the market, and choosing one can be overwhelming. However, by keeping in mind the key points introduced today, you should soon be on the right track. We hope that after reading this article, you will have gained valuable insights and will soon find a convenient walking stick that meets all your needs, including your body size, physical condition, and lifestyle!

We hope you enjoyed today's article. If you have learned more about walking sticks or have any other thoughts about them, feel free to visit the Lohas Elderly Facebook page and share them with everyone!