5 tips for safe walking with your walker

A walker provides extra support, stability and confidence while walking. But to make optimal and safe use of it, it is important that the walker is correctly adjusted and used. With the 5 tips below you can avoid the risk of falling, overloading or incorrect walking posture.

Tip 1: Set your walker to the correct height

A good walking posture starts with correctly adjusting the walker. If the walker is set too low, you automatically lean forward, which puts extra pressure on your back and shoulders. If it’s set too high, you walk with raised shoulders which increases the risk of neck and shoulder complaints.

Here’s how to set the correct height:

1. Stand between the handles.
2. Let your arms hang relaxed beside your body.
3. Adjust the handles so that they reach your wrist height.

Tip 2: Walk between the handles

Walk close to the walker: body between the handles, feet between the rear wheels. Use the basket to carry groceries or other items. Do not hang bags on the handles that disturbs the balance.

Tip 3: Always use the parking brake when you stop

Many walkers have a seat to rest during a walk. If you sit down, always engage the parking brake first. That way you prevent the walker from rolling away or sliding out from under you.

Tip 4: Use the brakes when going up or down a curb

Most curbs have a sloped ramp to step on and off easily. Unfortunately, sometimes these ramps are absent or not accessible. Follow the steps below to safely go up or down a curb with your walker.

Going down a curb

1. Let the walker roll down gently off the curb.
2. Keep a safe distance between you and the walker.
3. Squeeze the brakes.
4. Step down carefully yourself.

Going up a curb

1. Push the walker against the curb and squeeze the brakes.
2. Step one foot slightly backward and tilt the front wheels upward.
3. Release the brake carefully and place the front wheels onto the curb.
4. Push forward until the rear wheels are also on the curb.
5. Squeeze the brakes again and step up yourself.

Tip 5: Stay alert while walking

Even when walking with a walker, it’s important to remain attentive. Walk at a calm pace, look ahead, and don’t try to go faster than the walker allows. Pay attention to the ground watch out for loose paving stones, uneven surfaces or obstacles so you can avoid them in time. By walking consciously and controlled, you greatly reduce the chance of tripping or falling.