Vivir Healthcare acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country. We pay our respects to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, and to elders past and present, whose land we stand upon today.
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In Australia’s ageing population, falls prevention for elderly people cannot be overlooked. According to the most current 2023 Australian Government statistics, falls contribute to 43% of injuries leading to hospitalisation, making falls the top cause of injury related hospitalisations in Australia, with people aged 65 years and over being the most affected. As the impact of a fall can lead to loss of independence, confidence and impact overall well-being, understanding the role that Physiotherapists and Occupational Therapists play in supporting people implement fall prevention strategies to prevent future fall incidents, and engaging in their expertise, can help improve the quality of life for you or your elderly loved one.
With the introduction of the Aged Care Quality Indicators in 2019, our Vivir Healthcare Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists, Speech Pathologists, and Dietitians are committed to working with our Residential Aged Care Facility Clients based all over Australia, and the older people they care for continuously improve their quality of service.
For many people, maintaining our mobility is not just about getting from point A to point B – it is about the ability to perform daily activities with independence and confidence. However, as we age or face health challenges, maintaining mobility can become challenging. This is where mobility aids come in handy. Among the various types of mobility aids is the rollator – more commonly known among aged care residents and older people as a mobility walker. Used by seniors or those with a disability, the mobility walker / rollator certainly stands out as a useful and effective piece of equipment and are highly recommended by our Vivir Healthcare physiotherapists. How Mobility Walkers/ Rollators Enhance Mobility and Independence One of the primary reasons why physiotherapists recommend the use of a mobility walker to their clients after a mobility aid assessment is to enhance their mobility and independence. Designed to provide greater stability and support, the mobility walker makes it easier for individuals to move around safely within their home and in the community. Not to be mistaken to a walking frame, a mobility walker will include wheels (3, or 4 depending on the design), brakes and a cushioned seat. They are also designed to be pushed and allow the user to still move at their regular pace. In addition, unlike traditional walking sticks, which offer minimal support, the mobility walker provides a broader base of support as well as even weight distribution. Physiotherapists will recommend a mobility walker / rollator when the user is seeking some more stability when walking. They are the best and most practical option over a walking frame when the user’s balance is not so much of an issue, or when they do not have the upper arm strength to lift a walking frame. The inclusion of hand brakes also allows users to control their pace and stop securely, reducing the risk of falls. This added safety feature makes rollators an ideal choice for those who may feel unsteady on their feet. However before recommending, physiotherapists will consider and assess if the user can properly steer the rollator and use the brakes. Why Mobility Walkers / Rollators Encourage Physical Activity By enhancing mobility, the mobility walker encourages more physical activity. Maintaining an active lifestyle is essential for physical and mental health, particularly as we get older. But when mobility becomes a challenge, many seniors are hesitant to engage in physical activity, fearing they may not be able to keep up or may even injure themselves. This can lead to an inactive lifestyle, which in turn can exacerbate other health issues such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, and depression. By making walking easier and more achievable, the mobility walker / rollator allows users to walk longer distances more quickly, participate in social activities, and enjoy outdoor spaces with greater confidence. This not only helps maintain physical health but also improves mood and overall mental well-being . Indeed, the mobility walker / rollator is more than just a piece of equipment for getting around – it is a ticket to freedom that offers independence and extra support when mobility becomes a challenge. If you or someone you know requires assessment for a mobility aid, our Vivir Healthcare Physiotherapists can help. Get in touch by making a referral today .
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Vivir Healthcare acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country. We pay our respects to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, and to elders past and present, whose land we stand upon today.