Among one of the best low-impact exercises is walking. Also, for seniors who experience pain or weakness, walking is recommended for boosting blood circulation and reducing stress. Overall, indulging in physical activity helps to improve the overall health of people from all age groups. However, due to limited mobility, some seniors are unable to walk. So, they are recommended to use walking sticks or canes.
Though walking sticks and canes are available in a range of styles and materials, yet they function in the same manner. Depending on the purpose, function, and preferences – you can make your choice among the available options.
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Best 7 Walking Sticks (Canes) for Elderly & People With Mobility Issue
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1. KingGear Adjustable Cane
KingGear Adjustable Cane is a strong and lightweight cane which is primarily used by older adults. It weighs just around 7 pounds but it has a maximum weight capacity of 250 Pounds which is just remarkable by any given standard. If you’re looking for a walking stick that offers superior support for the wrist, you should stop beating around the bush and get your hand on this KingGear Adjustable Cane as soon as possible. it comes equipped with a large replacement tip which is quite convenient for the users.
The height of KingGear Adjustable Cane can be adjusted easily. The company has collaborated with numerous scientist and doctors to develop this cane. KingGear Adjustable Cane comes fitted with an elderly crutch and this is what makes it easier for senior citizens to move around without tipping over. Life is already difficult so what is the point in making it even more complicated right? So, just opt for KingGear Adjustable Cane and experience the difference.
The tip of this Cane is coated with anti-marking rubber that eliminates any possibility of falling over while walking. KingGear Adjustable Cane Is extremely flexible and can support your weight and thus allowing you to turn on a dime. Don’t forget to use the wristband as it can prevent slip and fall accidents. The maximum weight capacity of this cane is around 250 pounds which is more than enough for most of us.
2. NOVA Designer Walking Cane
NOVA Designer Walking Cane is a beautifully designed walking stick which is specifically designed and developed for older adults. Time to say goodbye to ugly and ungainly looking walking sticks. Just opt for this NOVA Designer Walking Cane and walk around with style. It has got a nice design to be honest with you all. it has got 30 different designs to choose from. The height of this walking stick can be adjusted by pressing a simple button.
NOVA Designer Walking Cane has got a feisty design but it is sturdy at the same time. This walking cane is extremely adjustable and highly reliable. It weighs just around 1 pound and the maximum weight capacity of this walking stick is 300 lbs. NOVA Designer Walking Cane can be used by both men and women which is quite convenient. A carrying strap is attached to the handle grip. To eliminate any possibility of rattling while walking, this walking stick comes fitted with an anti-rattle lock.
Made from aluminum, NOVA Designer Walking Cane has got Fade-resistant finish and its rubber tape is non slip by nature.
3. Hugo Adjustable Quad Cane
Hugo Adjustable Quad Cane Is a stylish and versatile walking stick. Known for its durability, Hugo Adjustable Quad Cane is strong built and its height can be adjusted without using any tool. Hugo Adjustable Quad Cane is not just a walking stick it is much more than that. Made from premium quality aluminum, Hugo Adjustable Quad Cane can absorb shocks easily. The maximum weight capacity of this walking stick is 300 lbs and it has 11 height settings which is incredible. Hugo Adjustable Quad Cane Can be adjusted for both left hand and right-hand users. All you have to do is rotate it and it will be ready for use for either left-hand users or right-hand users.
To increase the stability, Hugo Adjustable Quad Cane has got a K-shaped base. The handle fits perfectly in your hand and offers an excellent grip. The attached strap is highly reflective and that means, you can be spotted from a distance which will definitely add to your overall safety while strolling alone at night outside. To increase the traction, the tip is coated with flared rubber which is a smart move if you ask me.
Hugo Adjustable Quad Cane is designed for people who are suffering from arthritis. The handle conforms to the contours of the hand effortlessly and it also helps absorb shocks.
4. Sminiker Professional LED Folding Walking Cane
Sminiker Professional LED Folding Walking Cane is designed to allow effortless movement on most surfaces. Its extra-wide head makes it ideal for slippery or uneven surfaces. Don’t let your age dictate where you can go or how you should move around. Just get your hands on this Sminiker Professional LED Folding Walking Cane and you will be able to move around alone without asking for assistance from your caregiver all the time.
Armed with Sminiker Professional LED Folding Walking Cane, you will be able to climb hills. This walking stick can stay upright on its own when unattended. Sminiker Professional LED Folding Walking Cane has got a sleek design and its handle helps to cushion impacts. When not in use, you can fold this walking stick down and slide it inside a handbag. Built-in LED lights allow you to take a stroll outside at the night.
5. HurryCane Freedom Edition Folding Cane
Yes, it is the same walking stick that got featured on National Television. HurryCane Freedom Edition Folding Cane is designed for humans and that means, you should treat this walking stick more like an extension of your body and less like a cane. 3 contact points help increase the stability of this cane. HurryCane Freedom Edition Folding Cane helps you get an unparalleled level of balance on any given surface. It offers a superior level of traction while walking or standing.
HurryCane Freedom Edition Folding Cane mimics the function of a foot. The best thing about this HurryCane Freedom Edition Folding Cane is that it pivots just like a human ankle. It works automatically and that means, you don’t have to force the stick to align itself to match uneven surfaces or on slopes.
HurryCane Freedom Edition Folding Cane has got a foldable design and that means, you can tuck it inside your car when you are not using it. This walking stick has got two joints but that does not mean, it is not strong enough to withstand the weight of the user. The maximum weight capacity of this walking stick is around 350 pounds.
Designed for people of different shapes and sizes. You just have to press a button and it will get itself adjusted automatically. You can choose from the 8 pre-assigned heights that range from 30.5’’ to 37.5’’.
6. BigAlex Folding Walking Cane
BigAlex Folding Walking Cane is an elegant walking stick that can be used both outdoors and indoors. If you are one of those few fashion-conscious people who can go to any extent to make them look good, then you need to get your hands on this BigAlex Folding Walking Cane. Its collapsible design is a huge hit among older adults who love to spend more time outdoors. Lightweight and easy to carry, BigAlex Folding Walking Cane is made from Anodized aluminum. Its base is made from magnesium alloy that adds to its superior strength.
The maximum weight capacity of this walking stick is 300 lbs and it comes fitted with High LED light. The anti-skid design ensures greater traction on smooth and uneven surfaces. It has got 5 adjustable height levels. All you have to do is to push a button and BigAlex Folding Walking Cane will adjust its height automatically. This senior walking stick is ideal for people who are between 4’ 5’’ to 5’ 6’’.
7. Ez2care Adjustable Folding Quad Cane
Ez2care Adjustable Folding Quad Cane can be used by both left-handed and right-handed users thanks to its dual side snap design. It has got an interesting ergonomic design that contours to the shape of your hand effortlessly. The body of this Ez2care Adjustable Folding Quad Cane is made from anodized aluminum and its base is made from premier quality plastic.
Its quad base helps distribute stress evenly and thus allows you to put all your weight on it when required. The maximum weight capacity of this Ez2care Adjustable Folding Quad Cane is 250 lbs and it comes fitted with a cane strap that makes it super convenient for users to carry it around.
Walking Canes Vs Walking Sticks
The terms ‘walking sticks’ and ‘walking canes’ are used interchangeably. This is because they are designed for similar purposes. However, they vary in several aspects.
Walking canes are meant to offer support and stability to the users. They come with wide-sized shafts, large-sized handles, and broad ends. More so, they can carry more bodyweight while permitting users to lean on them while they’re walking. Users can carry a single cane that they hold on the body sides whilst walking. Besides, walking canes are covered by insurance because they serve medical purposes.
Conversely, walking sticks help users to maintain their body balance and rhythm while walking. These tools are used in pairs and are kept in front of the user while they walk. They help to reduce the risk of falling or stumbling on rough terrain. Walking canes are not covered by insurance because they also serve recreational purposes. Also, as compared to walking canes, walking sticks are costlier and come with additional accessories such as replaceable handles, tips, and wrist straps.
Walking Sticks Buying Guide
If you’re looking to buy a walking stick or walking cane for senior individuals, here are some important aspects to consider. However, beforehand, always check with your doctor to know whether you’re making the right choice. After all, walking tools cater to medicinal purposes and you’ve to make the right choice among the given alternatives. Because meddling with the health of your loved one is never advisable and can also have adverse consequences. Remember the adage – better safe than sorry.
So, here we go.
1. Material
The general recommendation is that feeble old seniors are comfortable using lightweight canes that do not apply much strain as they move about, while heavier elderly individuals and disabled groups might find products that are made of strong alloys suitable to provide the requisite support.
2. Weight
Heavy walking sticks may seem like a prudent choice in walking tools, but lugging them around can take its toll on you. Also, seniors may get tired soon if they carry them around for long. Moreover, the physical condition of the elderly person is important to consider when selecting walking resources on the basis of weight.
Normally, for seniors, the aluminum alloy ones are advisable; they’re both durable and lightweight. Lightweight sticks have a variety of grips and are adjustable to suit the users’ needs.
3. Height
When making your selection of walking canes or sticks for seniors, you must give importance to their weight as well. In cases of canes or sticks having long sticks, the user could experience soreness with prolonged use. And short handles cause instability when additional weight is applied.
4. Handles
The head of walking canes and sticks is another consideration that should be considered, because it has a role in determining the user’s comfort levels and weight distribution.
Generally, walking stick handles are composed of rubber, wood, plastic, or foam. As compared to foam, wood, and plastic rate higher in durability.
Besides, the handles must not be very small; else, they do not offer a solid grip. An appropriate-sized handle helps to relive undue stress on joints and prevents joint defects.
5. Feet / Tip
In canes, the quality of the tips matters. An efficient tip has a strong grip on the floors, absorbs the user’s weight, and does not lose shape easily. Also, the feet help to improve the balance of the user and prevent them from falling when treading on terrains.
6. Pole Weight and Durability
Previously, walking sticks and walking canes with bulky poles were deemed to be more durable. Even so, when hikers carried these heavy poles, they became tired easily. The latest models are better and users do not have to compromise on durability or weight when choosing poles.
The material that constitutes the pole determines its durability. Aluminum poles rate high in popularity; for they are inexpensive and durable. One pair of aluminum poles weighs around 22 oz.
During your hiking expeditions on uneven terrain, the aluminum poles may only bend; they do not break with ease.
If you’re looking for lighter poles, you can also go with the composite poles. These models are made of carbon and are lighter as compared to aluminum poles. Moreover, they help in absorbing vibrations, which could otherwise result in hikers complaining of pain in their hands.
Nevertheless, the lone drawback with composite poles is the carbon which they are made up of. Carbon does not perform well under pressure and stress; aluminum does a better job in these aspects than carbon. Only on gentle trails, you must consider carrying the composite poles.
7. Shock Absorbers
Some poles contain internal springs for absorbing shock upon hitting the ground. This feature is useful when heading downward or if you suffer from injured hips or joints.
Many seniors who complain of backaches find this feature helpful because it helps to minimize body aches. The best part of this feature is that the user can switch-off the function when they do not need it. For those people who suffer from joint pain, this feature can help to improve your hiking experience too.
Finally
In walking sticks and canes, you have an array of options to take your pick from. However, you must consider all the important aspects beforehand. More importantly, they should be functional for serving the given purposes. So, make a wise choice after careful consideration of all related factors.
