4 Types Of Walking Sticks You Should Know Of

By Author: Derry Hall
Total Articles: 34
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Walking sticks are one of the most useful mobility aids that are used by 74% of the elderly. It helps stabilize the body and reduce the risk of falling. It is made to help the elderly not only on the even smooth surfaces but also on the hilly and uneven surfaces. The walkers also use it to get relief from fatigue and relax their muscles. It helps get a good posture, and also increases the speed of walking, making the process more comfortable.

Here are four ways to choose an ideal walking stick for elderly.

1. Wooden Walking Sticks:

Wooden walking stick for elderly are made from many different kinds of wood. It includes chestnut, ash, hazel, and oak. Also, it comes in many different shades, so you can choose one that is liked by the elderly. These walking sticks are long lasting and of the proper length for the user so that it becomes easy for them to balance. If the length of the walking stick is more, then you can cut it to the exact length that you want it and stick the handle back towards the end.

2. ...
... Aluminium Walking Sticks:

Wooden sticks are heavy for long term use. Thus, they need a lightweight walking stick. An aluminium walking stick is the solution for this. It is light in weight yet strong. Mostly, these walking sticks have an E-clip to adjust the height. You can increase or decrease the height of the stick by one inch depending on your use, and the type of area on which they are using it. If the surface is flat and even then they need not change the height, but if the surface is rough and uneven, then, they need to change its height according to their use. It helps with keeping the proper balance.

3. Folding Walking Sticks:

One of the most used walking sticks for elderly are the folding walking sticks. This is useful when they do not need to use the stick each time they travel, sit, or stand. It is easy to carry and is among a few that lasts for a longer duration. They can just pull this stick out of their wallet and unfold it to use it.

Folding walking sticks can be used multiple times and the stick can literally be folded and snapped back into the wallet when not in use. It also has height changing options so, you can change the height according to your needs.

4. Non-folding Walking Sticks:

Traditional non foldable sticks are best suited for those who require it each time they sit or stand. These have less advantages over folding walking sticks. Like these come in fixed length and are heavy to carry and are non foldable. Also, the right kind of end is needed for such walking sticks. Because each shape provides different types of grips and has different balancing rates as well.

Conclusion:

Getting a walking stick of the correct height is important for the elderly. A good walking stick can help the elderly by offering them with a good posture and balance. It helps them provide stability and avoid stooping from their back, creating an imbalance in their body. It also helps them to sit and stand up. There are many choices in the mobility aids, but a walking stick is used mostly as it comes handy and has many different options to choose from. Depending on the condition, you can choose the foldable, non foldable, wooden, or aluminium walking stick. Every type comes with its own advantages and disadvantages. Like you cannot change the height in wooden sticks, but you can in foldable sticks. Based on the condition of the elderly, you need to choose the correct fit for them.