Safety First / Mobility Devices
By Beth Bullard, OTR .
In the past decade, the number of people injured while using a mobility device (cane, walker, wheelchair, scooter, etc.) has more than doubled. More than 100,000 people were treated in the U.S. for injuries related to wheelchairs and other mobility devices in 2008 alone. Often, the cause is not malfunction, but the fact that many people choose the wrong device for their needs or use them incorrectly.
To address some of these problems, it will help to follow a safety checklist for choosing or using a mobility device. The following list addresses the five issues related to mobility devices that present the highest risk to users. It also provides information on how to select the right mobility device and steps to take in both personal care and device maintenance.
þ Use the right device. In many cases, patients choose mobility devices without speaking to a doctor or other experts. Some people make purchasing decisions based on advertising or information on the internet. Others may feel that they do not need any guidance when choosing the best mobility device for their needs. Some people may be embarrassed about using a mobility device. As a result, they may use no device at all or opt for a cane when they may be better served by a walker or scooter. Using a device that’s not appropriate (either because it provides too much or too little support) can be dangerous and can even cause a further decline of mobility for some patients.
þ Train to use a device correctly. The best mobility device in the world isn’t going to help you at all if you don’t us it properly. Before using a mobility device, patients should consider participating in a hospital or clinic-based training course. Many home-care companies are also able to provide instruction on the use of mobility devices. Recent advances in training techniques include the use of virtual reality technology as a tool to train people to properly use mobility devices.
þ Plan ahead. While mobility devices can help you to remain independent, they often do require some changes to a normal routine. Take time to think about the best route to use for travel. Since it doesn’t take much of an obstacle to cause an accident when using a mobility device, particularly for people who are giving problems with balance and coordination, try to avoid areas of heavy traffic, busy roads, small sidewalks, construction sites, and other areas where travel may be more challenging or risky. Try to time your travel during off peak times.
þ Avoid Mobility Under the Influence (MUI) Many medications can cause sever drowsiness and fatigue. Before using a mobility device, patients should make sure that any medications they are using will not impair their ability to use a device safely.
þ Care for the char. For most mobility devices, routine maintenance and repairs can be completed at home by users and care providers. However, most mobility devices should have a professional service and maintenance heck every 6 months or so, depending on rate of use. Making sure all wheels are properly oiled and nuts and bolts are fully tightened can make a big difference in preventing falls or other accidents.
By following these simple rules, patients can get the maximum benefit cut of using a mobility device while minimizing the risk. With these insights, people can be saver and healthier while remaining independent.