Mobility Devices, Canes, & Walking Aids:  Older Adult Perspectives

A circle member presents a helpful summary of his gleanings from his research for an ambulation assistive device. The group gained insights into the differences between a walker and a rollator, and many more useful tips for choosing, including:

Explorer Rosalie describes a portable motorized mobility device that folds to a compact size, and one that she has often seen used on shipboard.

The Explorers look at a prototype cane as well as a mass produced model, and discuss the pros and cons of both designs.

Explorers discuss gait and balance challenges that result from conditions like peripheral neuropathy. We explore what sort of problems people have and speculate about ideas for gadgets that might help compensate for these challenges.

Peripheral neuropathy, which is common, can cause difficulties walking and gait impairments. Explorer Lyle speculates "there should be a gadget for that" and the explorers brainstorm.

Explorer Wells shares his concern with becoming more unsteady as he increases in age, and seeks ways to improve his balance. Explorers have ideas.

Explorer Judy introduces the group to a folding seat - Cane Seat Sling - that serves as a cane when in the closed position.

The Saratoga Retirement Community discussion circle explores gadgets designed to make it easier to enter and exit an automobile, including suggesting some design improvements for one of them.

Saratoga Explorers explore a pair of devices which fasten to a car's door latch, and serve to provide leverage for getting in and out of the car more easily.

Explorer Anniescott gives the group a user report on her Secure.com cane. She found that the battery compartment door is a weak spot, and that the first time the cane dropped to the street, the latch broke exposing the battery and disabling the lights and alarm functions.

Explorer Barbara referred to a previous meeting in which a member complained that shopping in grocery and other stores could be uncomfortable due to the lack of seating for those who need a short break. She found a new concept, a wearable chair, being developed.