A Family Physician’s Perspectives on Prescribing Ambulatory Aids for the Elderly

Abstract

Ambulatory aids extend the mobility of patients who have gait disorders. Knowing the functions of a cane, walker, and crutches helps in appropriate prescription of these devices. There are 8 suggested steps to go through when prescribing ambulatory aids: (1) Conduct a thorough review of patient’s medical conditions to determine if the elderly patient is safe for ambulation (2) Evaluate the patient’s ambulatory expectations and ambulatory requirements (3) Screen if the patient will benefit from using unilateral or bilateral support ambulatory aid. (4) Choose the most appropriate ambulatory aid based on the patient’s conditions, expectations, and the need to use upper extremities for balance or weight bearing while ambulating (5) Ensure proper fitting of the ambulatory aid (6) Provide education or training to use the ambulatory aid effectively (7) Determine if the patient requires physical assistance in addition to the ambulatory aid (8) Review the use of ambulatory aid regularly and check ambulatory aids periodically for wear and tear.