Introduction to Correct Use of Canes
Sometimes a person has difficulty walking because of:
- Poor balance
- Weakness in the legs
- A healing bone fracture
- Unsteady gait
- Loss of movement from a stroke
- Surgery involving the hips or legs.
When this happens, the proper use of an assistive device such as a cane can help a person walk more safely.
A doctor or physical therapist should recommend a cane for the person you care for. The doctor will order a visit to a rehabilitation facility or ask that a physical therapist come to your home to evaluate the type of cane that will work best. The doctor will decide how much weight the person you care for can place on their affected leg, this is called weight bearing status. The type of assistive device chosen, such as a walker or a cane, is decided by how much weight the person can safely put on their weaker leg. Selection of the right assistive device also depends on a person’s age, strength, coordination, overall health, and ease of being able to move about.
Once you know the type of cane a person needs, the physical therapist or the staff of a medical supply store can help fit the cane correctly. Once a person is fitted, as a caregiver you want to observe how a person uses a cane so that you can offer assistance as needed.
Here is Keisha’s Story:
Whenever I go over to my mom’s house to help her with her medicines, I keep an eye out for her and watch how she uses her cane. I read recently about how so many older adults fall at home. Mom is 86 and sometimes she does not seem as steady using the cane as other times. I make sure the cane is in good repair and then I talk to her about being sure not to bend over too much and to stand straight when she uses it. I think my reminders help her.