The variety of canes available in the market can be overwhelming, making it difficult to decide which one is right for your elderly loved one. Here are some guidelines to help you choose the appropriate type of cane for their needs.
Walking Canes
Walking canes, such as single-legged crutches, tripod crutches, and quadruped crutches, are the most commonly used canes for the elderly. A single-legged crutch is sufficient if the elderly's physical condition is good, but it must meet the criteria of being non-slip, lightweight, and convenient. A walking stick with an ergonomic design provides comfortable and confident walking on all terrains and can even stand on its own. However, if the elderly has poor balance ability, a multi-legged cane is advisable to provide better support for the body.
Foldable Four-Legged Crutches
Foldable four-legged crutches are ideal for the elderly or those with degenerated knee joints. It can be adjusted according to the height of the elderly and is lightweight and foldable. Due to the four contact points with the ground, it provides more extensive support and higher stability than a hand pole, but it can cause shaking and instability when the road is bumpy. Therefore, it is best used on flat ground and is more suitable for indoor use.
Multi-Functional Foldable LED Walking Cane
A multi-functional foldable LED walking cane is an excellent option for those who need a cane to get around after hip surgery. The anti-shock foldable walking stick comes with a built-in LED flashlight, providing an easy walk on all terrains, with five different adjustable height levels. It is lightweight, portable, and comes with a slip-resistant anti-marking rubber tip. The standing cane with LED lights fits easily into any case or bag, making it perfect for storage and travel.
العكازات الإبطية
Axillary crutches rely mainly on the handle to support the body weight, while the axillary support is used to grasp the direction, enhancing the balance and stability of the body. These canes are suitable for those who are weak in the lower limbs and cannot bear the weight of the lower limbs. However, they have the disadvantage of compressing the armpit area for extended periods, which can damage the brachial plexus in the armpit.
Elbow Crutch
Elbow Crutch have a forearm sleeve that can clamp the forearm, and are mainly supported by the hand and supplemented by the forearm support, similar to the function of the axillary cane. They are lighter, more flexible, and more convenient to use than a cane, with better stability than an axillary cane. More importantly, they will not cause damage to the brachial plexus in the armpit, making them suitable for a wide range of applications.
In conclusion, choosing the right cane for the elderly depends on their specific needs and physical condition. The right cane will provide support, stability, and comfort, making daily activities more accessible and enjoyable.