Mobility and walking can be impaired if you have arthritis.

Canes offer additional support and improve balance when walking.

Canes can be adjusted for height to ensure a proper fit.

You can never care back enough

PeopleImages / Getty Images

The top of the cane should reach the crease on the underside of your wrist.

Shift as much weight to the cane as necessary.

confirm that the tip of the cane is in good condition and that it is replaceable.

When using the cane, hold the cane with the opposite hand of the side that needs extra support.

As with most major purchases, it’s important to make an informed decision.

There are many mobility scooters available.

Since walkers are crucial items, it’s important to have it sized right for you.

The height on most walkers is adjustable, but be sure to consider width as well.

look to see if the walker you choose is sized for an adult, child, or large adult.

A rollator walker is another option (pictured above).

A rollator walker is similar to a standard walker but it has tires and hand brakes.

Rollators do not require the lifting of the walker that a standard walker requires as you move along.

A rollator, however, requires that the patient be strong enough to control it.

If they don’t say it, they think it.

If you are purchasing a manual wheelchair, do you have someone who will push you in it?

Are there times when you will need to use it without the assistance of another person?

Think of your needs and think about how well a wheelchair will serve those needs.

Also, confirm your wheelchair is of reasonably high qualitythey tend to take a beating.

Electric wheelchairs:

Be sure to compare prices and shop with reputable dealers only.

Ask your healthcare provider for suggestions on what you will need.

Check with your insurance, toothey may cover some portion of the purchase.

I can read your mind right now: “I’ll never sit in this chair again”!

As ifpain and other symptoms associated with arthritisweren’t enough, arthritis patients have to watch where they sit!

There is a very practical solutiona lift chair.

They are impossible to distinguish from regular recliners.

Lift chairs come with a remote and a motorized mechanism that allows the chair to recline or lift.

Before You Buy a Stair Lift

People with mobility problems consider stairs or steps enemy #1.

If you are not living in a single story house, stairs can present a real problem.

A stair lift is not inexpensive, but they aren’t unaffordable either.

Learn about them from a reputable dealer.

Ask about the benefits of an electric stair lift or rechargeable stair lift.

Which is right for you?