Expert Tips on How to Choose the Best Walking Cane for Stability

More than 35 million American seniors fall every year. One in every five falls results in serious injuries such as broken bones or head injury.

If someone you love is becoming unsteady on their feet, it might be time to consider a walking cane. These mobility aids come in many different styles to suit their stability needs.

Keep reading to learn how to find the best walking cane for stability.

Talk to Your Doctor

Your first step in choosing the best walking cane will be talking to your physician. Your doctor can help you choose between the many different types of walking canes.

You may receive a referral to a local occupational therapist (OT). Your OT will perform a thorough evaluation of your needs to help you choose the right cane.

Local mobility store associates may also be able to fit you for your cane.

We don’t recommend choosing any old cane you find in a thrift shop or store. Enlist the help of an OT or mobility store to ensure you’re getting exactly what you need. Plus, they can help you choose between some cool canes that suit both your physical needs and your style.

Learn About the Different Types

There are several different types of canes you’ll come across in your search for the perfect one.

One of the most common is the “C” cane. These straight canes have a single tip at the bottom and have a candy cane shape to them. This style is best for people who need a small amount of assistance with balance.

A functional grip cane is similar to the C-style but the handle is straight instead of curved. The shape provides users with a better grip and control. This style is a step up from the C cane, providing a bit more stability.

An offset handle cane features a curve in the shaft to help distribute the user’s weight better. Better weight distribution leads to enhanced stability. This is a great option for folks who need to put partial weight on their mobility aid.

A quad cane features four support tips at the bottom providing a wider rectangle base. Most quad canes have offset handles to allow for better weight distribution. This style is great for people who need a lot of support as it can bear much more weight.

Determine the Best Material Type

The next thing to consider is the material of the shaft.

Many cane manufacturers choose to construct their canes with aluminum. This material is very lightweight so it allows for ease of use for people with weaknesses. Aluminum is a very durable metal to ensure the cane has a long lifespan.

Carbon fiber is another material to consider. It’s even lighter in weight than aluminum and has better durability as well.

Wood canes are classic and what most people think of when they hear the word “cane.” While wood options are easy to resize if necessary, they are very heavy to use and carry.

Choosing the Best Walking Cane for Stability

Now you know how to choose the best walking cane for stability. We still recommend speaking with a professional to ensure you’re getting one that suits your needs.

Keep reading our blogs to find more ideas on how to enrich your life.