Walker, stick or wheelchair? Choosing a walking aid for a parent

A single walking stick suits someone who is mostly steady but has pain or mild weakness on one side, or who wants a little extra security outdoors. It gives light support and does little for poor balance.

Hold it in the hand opposite the painful or weaker leg, and move it forward at the same time as that leg.

A stick with four small feet stands on its own and is more stable than a single stick. It is often used after a stroke. It is slower and works best on flat floors, because all four feet need to touch the ground.

A walker without wheels gives the most support for walking. It suits people after hip or knee surgery, those with significant weakness and those with poor balance. It is lifted and placed forward with each step, so it is slow and needs some arm strength.

A walker with two front wheels does not need lifting and gives a smoother walking pattern, while still being stable.

A rollator has four wheels, hand brakes and usually a seat. It suits people who walk reasonably well but tire quickly and need to rest, especially outdoors. It rolls easily, so it is not right for someone who leans heavily on it or has poor balance, unless they use the brakes reliably.

A wheelchair is for distances your parent cannot walk safely, such as hospital visits, temples or travel, or for people who cannot walk. Using one for longer outings can help someone stay active, because it saves their energy for walking at home. The risk is using it for everything, which leads to further weakness.

With your parent standing straight and arms relaxed by their sides, the handle of a stick or walker should be level with the crease of the wrist. When they hold it, the elbow should bend slightly. Too high and the shoulders hunch. Too low and they stoop forward, which shifts their weight forward and raises the risk of a fall.

Check the rubber tips regularly and replace them when they wear smooth.

Using a stick borrowed from a relative at the wrong height. Pushing a walker too far ahead and leaning into it. Carrying the stick instead of using it. Using a walker on stairs, which it is not designed for. Leaving the aid behind at night on the way to the bathroom.