How to use walking sticks for seniors?

In this blog we want to share with you about how to use walking sticks for seniorsWalking cane is a beautiful accessory. But it is also very important thing in life of many people, especially seniors.

How to use walking sticks for seniors?


Knowing how to use a cane correctly isn’t as obvious as it seems. Many seniors use canes to improve balance, get support, and reduce their fall risk. But using one incorrectly increases the risk of falling.


Many seniors resist using a cane because they don’t want to appear old or frail. A common issue we see among seniors is using the furniture in their homes to stabilize themselves when walking. They move from chair to couch, countertop to the wall, and build a network of furnishings to move about their home.

Walking canes for seniors near me

A second issue we find is the improper use of their cane. If the cane is not being properly used or is ill-fitted, it can’t help an unsteady individual. It can sometimes serve as a false sense of security if not used correctly and sometimes, even contribute to a fall.

Reasons to use a cane or walking stick:


1. To increase stability while recovering from an accident or injury

2. If you experience pain in your joints or limbs while walking

3. If you find walking difficult at times or are afraid of losing your balance

4. If you find yourself looking for nearby supportive fixtures to help with balance

5. For people recovering from a stroke, hip replacement or other debilitating disease may be advised by a doctor or discussed during physical therapy to start using an assistive cane or other device for walking

6. If you have difficulty walking up or down stairs


    How to safely walk with a cane on a level surface:


    1. Hold the cane in the hand on your “good” side (the healthy leg) to better support the opposite painful, weak, or injured leg

    2. As you take a step with your weak leg, bring the cane forward at the same time.

    3. Lean your weight through your grasp holding the cane for extra stability. Keep your head up and don’t look down at your feet.

    4. Always have the weak leg assume your first weight-bearing step on a flat surface with the heel first. Try to keep a natural step length and pace when walking.

    5. The cane should move the distance of an average step forward. With each move forward, you should not be stepping ahead of the cane.

    6. If you are using the cane for general mobility (rather than an injury) hold the cane in your dominant hand to bear the most weight.

    7. The length of a cane is important. The cane should fit so the handle falls comfortably into the palm of your “good” side or dominant hand when relaxed with the elbow slightly bent. If your cane is too high, this can hurt your shoulder and if it is too low, it can cause you to slouch over.