Prevent falls by using walkers safely
GRF SAFETY MESSAGE
Over the last two COVID-19 vaccine clinics, GRF staff noticed a large number of caregivers, family members, friends and neighbors pushing four-wheeled walker “rollators” while someone was sitting in the fixed seat.
Surprisingly, when counseled, most people were oblivious of the risks of using such devices incorrectly.
Falls are the leading cause of non-fatal injury in the U.S., and falls among older adults can have especially serious consequences.
Walking aids are very important in helping many older adults maintain their mobility. However, it is important to make sure people use these devices safely.
A rollator is a mobility aid that consists of a metal frame mounted on three or four wheels. A pair of handlebars is positioned on one side. The person pushes it forward while walking. The rollator gives stability and balance.
Walkers are often used by frail and vulnerable older adults, people for whom falls can have serious health consequences. Over the last dozen years, Leisure World stats show that falls involving rollators have continued at a steady rate despite the fact that all new walkers now have a manufacturer sticker warning against using them as wheelchairs. Educational articles have also been periodically printed in the LW Weekly A walker with four wheels, brakes and an attached chair is commonly known as a rolling walker, or rollator. The chair is attached to the rollator so if the user gets tired, he or she can sit down and take a break. This type of rollator is not designed to be used as a wheelchair or to transport someone.
The safety instructions for all rollators clearly indicate that no one should attempt to push the rollator while someone is sitting in the seat, and the various manufacturers warn that using the rollator as a wheelchair or to transport someone “may result in serious injury or death.”
The Mayo Clinic offers six safety tips on using a walker.
1. Types of walkers: If stability is a significant concern, a walker without wheels is a good choice. But if you need help walking, a two-wheeled walker allows you to place weight on the walker as you move. If you do not need to lean on the walker for balance, you will walk faster with a fourwheel walker.
2. Selecting a grip: Most walkers come with plastic grips, but you can add foam or soft grip covers. If you have trouble grasping with your fingers from arthritis or other joint pains, a larger grip may relieve stress on joints.
3. Fitting your walker: Adjust it so that it fits your arms comfortably to reduce stress on your shoulders and back. First, place your hands on the grips. Your elbows should bend at a comfortable angle. Second, relax your arms at your sides. The top of your walker should line up with the crease of the inside of your wrist.
4. Taking your first step: If you need to place weight on the walker as you move, start by pushing the walker forward and keep your back upright.
5. Do not lean over the walker: Stay upright as you move. Always step into the walker, rather than walking behind it. Be careful not to push the walker too far in front of you or set the handles too high.
6. Walker accessories: Many people trip with their walker while they are carrying something. You can add trays to carry food and other items, a pouch, or a basket. Some walkers also have seats, so you can take a rest.
People should check with a medical professional and/or physical therapy department for recommendations on the type of walking aid that would be of most benefit and how to safely use it.
In addition to mobility aids, the CDC’s Injury Center recommends the following to protect against falls for adults ages 65 and older: Begin a regular exercise program, have doctors review their medications, have their vision checked and make their home surroundings safer.
— Eloy Gomez, GRF safety and emergency coodinator, and Cindy Tostado, GRF member resources
