Feb 4, 2008, 3:08 GMT
Essen, Germany - About 33 per cent of people over 65 years and 40 per cent of people over 80 years fall at least once a year, according to estimates compiled by experts at the North Rhine medical association.
Serious injuries, bone breaks and reduced mobility are common results of the falls. Walkers and other supports can help older people avoid falls and provide a feeling of security. A cane is the proper aid for slightly handicapped people.
'Unfortunately, many users still shy away from picking up a cane at the right time,' said Michael Hubert, an adviser at a German research institute for technology and handicaps.
Canes have continued to develop: There are numerous light canes made of aluminium in different colours and designs. A style of cane with a curve near the handle has proved strong competition for the traditional straight cane, experts say.
Many health insurance policies cover the cost of a cane, said Ingo Doneth who is with a German medical services association representing the top health insurers.
Anatomically formed handles must be specifically prescribed by a doctor. The same is true for specially formed supports that fit the arms or armpits. A cane, however, is less suitable for users who need a lot of support.
This type of user is better off with a cane that has four feet, also known as a walker. These supports come in different styles; some have four feet, some have two feet and two wheels.
Less cumbersome are walkers with three or four-wheels. They are easy to turn and therefore easier to use in small rooms. The four- wheeled models are unbeatable for stability and security.
'Around 80 per cent of all rolling walkers are produced in Korea and many come from the same company,' said Doneth. Thus, the selection is small. 'The two front wheels are able to turn 360 degrees. The walker is made to fit through gates and doors of normal widths. Maintenance on the commonly used wheels is minimal, said Kristina Kreutzer of a clinic in Remscheid, Germany.
The handles are positioned higher to allow the user to walk upright. The mechanism used to collapse the walker is also positioned high, and a removable shopping basket is standard equipment.
The weight and braking mechanism are essential parts of the walker for manual operation, and there are big differences in walkers in these two categories.
'A standard model weighs about 12 kilogrammes and a light-weight model weighs only seven to eight kilogrammes,' said Kreutzer. In some cases, insurance will cover the higher cost of a light-weight walker.
Walkers with wheels typically have a hand brake on each handle to control the back wheels. The brake system also has a setting that can be used to hold the wheels in a fixed position. Many older people use a walker outside their homes and a cane inside. For them a holder for the cane is an important feature that their walker should have.
The rubber cover that fits over the tip of the cane should be checked before winter weather sets in. A normal cover should be exchanged for one with spikes.
Checking the brakes on walkers also is recommended. There is, however, no assurance for ease of use in the winter.
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