According to the CDC, falls among adults 65 and older lead to 34,000 deaths each year.  This makes falls the leading cause of injury deaths in older adults.  Most falls are preventable.  One way to reduce your risk of falling is to walk with a cane.  So, how do you know it’s time to start walking with a cane?  This article helps you answer this question.

A common dilemma faced by older adults involves the decision to start using a walking aide like a cane. Many hold off on using a cane because they believe, “If I start using a walker or cane, I will become dependent on it.”  This is erroneous thinking.  If you fall down and break a hip you might instead be dependent on a wheelchair or scooter.

If you answer “yes” to any of the following 3 questions, it is time you start using a cane.

1. Are You Reaching For Furniture When You Walk?

This is the most common clue of poor balance we hear. If you’re always looking for the next piece of furniture or a wall to grab onto for support, you have a balance problem.  Reaching for objects to maintain your balance is never a good idea.

Many falls happen when reaching for, and missing a piece of furniture in the home.  Walking doesn’t have to be a struggle.  Use a cane instead of your furniture.

2. Are You Avoiding Certain Activities or Not Going Places Because You Are Afraid of Falling?

A fear of falling impacts how many people plan their community and social activities.  Are you staying away from certain stores because of an uneven parking lot?  Are you not visiting friends or family because of the stairs?

A walking cane might give you the support and confidence you need to resume your daily walk around the neighborhood or get up and down stairs more easily.

3. Have You Already Fallen?

This might seem obvious but many people ignore or brush off falling down.  This is especially true if you escape serious injury.  However, falls are not normal for adults.  Falls are a sign that something is wrong!

You might be tripping over things more frequently, or you may be experiencing unusual muscle weakness. Falling is increasingly dangerous as you age since your bones become weaker. Whatever caused the fall, it’s time to talk to your physical therapist about using a cane.

See Your Physical Therapist to Learn How to Properly Use a Walking Cane

Canes and walkers are very important in helping older adults maintain their mobility. However, it’s important to make sure you use these devices safely.  Your physical therapist will help you get the right type and size cane.

Also, you have to learn how to properly use a cane when you walk.  Using a cane improperly will actually increase your risk of falling. Get help from the experts.  Call our office to schedule an appointment with your physical therapist.