Are More Seniors Using Mobility Devices?

Statistics show that about one-quarter of adults aged 65 and older are now dependent on certain mobility devices, including canes, walkers and wheelchairs. Furthermore, about one-third of them reported needing the assistance of multiple devices based on 2011 estimates.

New findings published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that while walking with a cane or assisted mobility device did not increase the risk of falling, those who used canes were more likely to report a limited range of certain activities because they feared falling or an inability to do certain things that might result in a fall.

Unfortunately, for some, this could mean that they were more likely to lean towards more of a sedentary lifestyle, according to lead study author Dr. Nancy Gell.

"Staying active is a key component to staying healthy and maintaining mobility and function," Gell said, in a news release. "It's important for people to use the device that best matches their needs in order to stay as mobile as possible, but safely."

For the study, those involved were asked about certain medical conditions including osteoarthritis, hip fracture, dementia and stroke, as well as their physical capacity. They were also assessed for tasks that included walking three to six blocks while placing a heavy object overhead or opening a sealed jar, according to CBC News Health.

While study results showed no difference in falls or recurrent falls between older adults who used a number of mobility devices and those who did not after adjusting for a range of characteristics, including demographic, medical conditions, physical capacity, fall history, etc., there was a 30 percent difference among those who carried mobile devices when it came to "activity-limiting worry."

Researchers believe it's important to pick the best device that can keep the patient most active throughout the remainder of his or her life. However, this may require more training and safety for the future.

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