Using a Walker!

Hi everyone

I’ve read a few people on here say they use a walker when out and about I am just looking for tips and tricks on how to use it or if maybe I should try a different aid? I’ve been trying for months to get outside and use mine and I just can’t do it - it’s so frustrating. I am managing in the house - but I can’t even lift it over my 2 doorsteps without loosing my balance so how do you even begin to getting it up a curb if I could even get out of my gate.

I tried with my neuro assistant last week but I had to get on my bottom to push it out and back in the door using my arm strength - which was good on that particular day but it varies so much!

I can use the lightweight traditional Zimmer frame one for inside the house and garden it just seems the the one for outside with the seat is far too heavy for me? I have managed to use crutches for short distances in the past but I struggle with co-ordination and my leg drags behind. The walker works really well in the house and helps me with my normal movement.

I’m so frustrated! Any tips would be greatly appreciated ;0)

Sending everyone good wishes

Thank you

[Mygeordiebud]

Hi you can get help with a ramp if you contact your local council and ask to speak to a occupational therapist, not only can they sort a ramp but any other adaptations you might need.

Mark

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You need to first to not over think it. Just breath....... Second...... Know your application like you already do.

For stairs theres a video(s) on youtube that show well on how to move up and down stairs and also how to get up/down from a seated position.

For leg weakness/paralysis don't try harder than you can. strength and coordination comes with time, practice, and repetition. So for example if you're in the car slowly move your way up and down and make sure you connect with the movement. For walking, don't lean all the way forward as if you're about to fall forward. Have the walker about a foot away from you and make sure the walker is planted solid on the ground/floor. Don't let slip from you. When you lift it, you're taking away your support. So this is where maybe a folded cane comes into play so you can transition your support to that rather the walker.......It like jacking and supporting a car. You have the car tire off the ground and its supported and lifted by a pump jack. Take the jack away the car falls to the ground......Put another jack under and have it supported by that and all of sudden you can take away the 1st jack.

So by having a railing, or something next to you as you lift the walker will help you stay supported as you take a step while keeping the walker in your hand/arm when you lift it up off the ground/floor

[AjaStar]

I either use my cane on a good day or pushed on a wheelchair on a bad day. Can’t use walkers or crutches cause I don’t have arm strength when my walking is bad.

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Thank you ;0)