One of the ambulatory devices commonly used by elderly individuals for assistance is canes. There are many varieties and styles of canes. The choice is strictly personal. There is a lot of evidence that use of canes can improve balance and also allows for some mild degree of weight bearing. Use of a cane can help improve balance by increasing an individual’s base of support. When the cane is used correctly, it can unload pressure on the opposite leg by at least 20-25 percent.
There are four categories of canes, each of which provides a different amount of assistance during walking.
The simplest is the C straight cane with a curved handle. The C cane is for use by individuals who require minimal assistance during walking.
Functional grip canes are very similar to C canes except that the handle is different. Functional grip canes have a straight grip handle rather than a smooth curve. This allows for a steady grip and improves cane control. Functional canes are more suited for individuals who need slightly more assistance with balance.
The quad cane comes with a rectangular base and four small supports. The horizontal base provides more support. In general, Quad canes are often used by individuals who have had a stroke and are left with residual hemiplegia, or paresis of one arm, leg, or both.
The hemi walker is a combination of the quad cane and a walker. Its base is much larger and provides great base support. Besides balance, it also helps individuals remain erect easily. Individuals with severe strokes, which have resulted in dense paralysis of one side of the body, may benefit from the hemi walker.
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