Refusing to use a walker!

Using a walker means accepting that you are losing your autonomy
In the ageing process, seniors have to deal with their loss of autonomy. When a senior accepts assistance, they have accepted their loss of autonomy.
Refusal
Many elderly people will continue to move around using a cane, even if their doctor has instructed them to use a walker; because of their pride, of course!
Falls

Canes do not ensure good balance and do not help prevent falls. For seniors who live in a residence, it’s often the residence that is blamed when a fall takes place. Despite a well-adapted environment in the residence, if certain residents refuse to use their walkers, falls become inevitable.
The Role of Residence Staff

Staff at the residence can play an important role in ensuring that walkers are used by explaining that they actually allow residents to maintain their autonomy for a longer period of time.

Walkers and Seniors With Cognitive Losses
For seniors who suffer from cognitive losses like Alzheimer’s or dementia, some can forget that they are limited in their mobility and exhibit reckless behaviour that increases the risk of falls. And of course, sometimes they forget that they must use a walker!!! This requires a residence that has appropriate care for those with cognitive losses with specially trained staff. Staff can then remind residents to use their walkers, for example.
What we Suggest
It’s a great idea to explain to seniors with a loss of mobility that using a walker can maintain their autonomy for longer and the right attitude can actually benefit them! Because we all want to be autonomous for as long we can!
Other useful links:

• Preventing falls using the STAND UP! Program