What kind of risk do walkers and canes pose to the elderly?
Boston (DbTechNo) – Millions of elderly Americans rely on walkers and canes to aid their mobility but a new report just released states that they may actually be cause of many injuries. The report, released by government researchers finds that each year in the US more than 47000 hospital visits by the elderly are made because of mishaps involving walkers and canes. Walkers and canes can pose health risks to those using them if they are not used properly. Walkers for example, have wheels on the bottom of them that can roll out of control if brakes are not applied when stopped. Canes, can also pose health risks, if they are not long enough for the person using them, resulting in the person falling over objects not found by their cane. The researchers insist that doctors need to be more thorough when fitting patients with mobility aids so the patient has a clear understanding of how to properly use them. The study can be found in the American Geriatrics Society. Sources:
