A Short Guide to Walking Frames
Walking frames is the term given to a range of mobility aids which can be used both in the home and community. Walking frames can improve someone’s level of independence and reduce tiredness or pain when walking. Because of the larger base a walking frame may also provide more support than a walking stick. An assessment by a health practitioner is important to establish the cause of the difficulties when walking and prescribe the most effective treatment or equipment. There is a large range of walking frames available to suit a range of body shapes and sizes. When choosing a walking frame the individual’s needs, abilities and the places the frame will be used should all be considered.
Mobile Walking Frames
Is the term given to a group of walking frames with one or more wheels. Three or four wheeled walking frames can be suitable if the user is able to balance when standing without support, can walk reasonably well but would benefit from extra support over longer distances. Three wheeled walkers may be easier to manoeuvre but due to a larger base of support a four wheel walker will provide more stability. Four wheeled frames often come with a seat which the user can rest on if they fatigue or experience shortness of breath. Many also have a basket to carry light goods. Styles of brakes include hand/bicycle type brakes or push down brakes which work by pushing down through the handles. Check that you can operate the brakes easily before purchase. Push down brakes can be of advantage when the user may forget to engage brakes when sitting and standing. Most of these frames fold for transportation.
Two wheeled frames
These are generally recommended if the user is able to stand with light support and requires extra support when walking. They are most suited to indoor use. They have two wheels at the front and rubber stoppers or glides also known as skis at the back. Some models have wheels that swivel providing better manoeuvrability but may have a tendency to be less stable. Stoppers offer greater stability than glides but glides are easier to push on carpet. Most fold for transportation.
Pick up frames
These have four rubber stoppers and no wheels. Suitable for someone requiring even more assistance and support when standing and walking that won’t “run away”. It is picked up and placed down again as you take each step. Some fold for ease of transportation. Users require a sufficient level of strength and balance to lift and place frame safely.
The right height
It is important that the walking frame is adjusted to the correct height for the user. When standing with arms relaxed by their side the top of the handles should be at the same level as the user’s wrist crease. The seat is usually not height adjustable so check that it is a comfortable height prior to purchase.
Safety issues
It is a good idea to remove all obstacles indoors such as floor mats.When standing up remember to push up from the arms or seat of the chair before grasping the walking frame.Are their steps to negotiate? If using a mobile walking frame a ramp may need to be installed in place of steps.On frames with lockable brakes ensure they are engaged when both sitting down and standing up.
Transporting a walking frame.
Consider the weight of the frame. Aluminium frames will be lighter than steel frames. Can the folding mechanism be easily operated? Can the user or carer fold and lift the frame in and out of the car? Will the frame fit in the boot or back seat of their vehicle? There is a large range of walking frames on display at the Independent Living Centre. For further information or to make an appointment to visit the display area and speak to an Occupational Therapist, please contact the Independent Living Centre: www.ilc.asn.au
