Top Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Mobility Aid
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Using a mobility aid can make life easier, safer, and more comfortable. But if you’re not using it properly, it might do more harm than good.
Whether it’s your first time with a cane, walker, or rollator—or you're helping a loved one—knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do.
🚫 Mistake #1: Using the Wrong Mobility Aid
Not every aid fits every person. Choosing a cane when you need a walker, or a walker when you need a rollator, can make walking harder and riskier.
Tip: Talk to a physical therapist or doctor before you buy. They’ll help match the right tool to your needs and strength.
👉 Explore our standing support aids to find the best match.
📏 Mistake #2: Poor Height Adjustment
If your cane or walker is too high or too low, it can cause back pain or throw off your balance.
How to check:
- Your elbow should bend slightly (about 15–20°) when you grip the handle
- Shoulders should stay relaxed, not hunched
✅ Many of our daily living aids are adjustable for a perfect fit.
⚙️ Mistake #3: Not Learning How to Use It
Walking with a mobility aid takes some getting used to. If you’re using it incorrectly, you could increase your fall risk.
Common problems:
- Using the wrong side of your body for a cane
- Pushing a rollator too far ahead
- Dragging a walker instead of lifting it
📽️ YouTube and physical therapists offer great demos. Or ask a caregiver to watch and give feedback.
🔧 Mistake #4: Not Maintaining Your Equipment
Loose screws. Worn-out rubber tips. Broken brakes. These are accidents waiting to happen.
What to do: Check your mobility aid regularly. Replace parts as needed. Wipe it down to remove dirt or dust that might make it slippery.
🧰 Silver Corridor’s tools are designed to last, but regular care makes a big difference.
👟 Mistake #5: Wearing the Wrong Shoes
Mobility aids help with balance, but your shoes play a role too. Slippers, heels, or slick soles can cancel out all the support.
Best choices:
- Non-slip soles
- Good arch support
- Closed-toe for protection
👣 Think of shoes and aids as a team—both matter for your safety.
🏠 Mistake #6: Not Adjusting Your Home
You’ve got your mobility aid—but can you use it safely at home?
- Remove rugs that slide
- Widen paths between furniture
- Install grab bars in the bathroom
💡 Browse our bathroom aids for simple ways to make your home more mobility-friendly.
👩🦳 Mistake #7: Not Using It Consistently
Some people “forget” to use their mobility aid—especially indoors. But even short walks without it can cause falls.
Reminder: Your aid is there to help, not just for when you feel weak. Use it until your provider says otherwise.
🛒 Ready to Use Your Aid the Right Way?
At Silver Corridor, we offer high-quality mobility aids designed for safety, ease, and confidence.
From standing support tools to daily use grabbers, we’ve got what you need to move safely at home and outdoors.
✅ Final Thoughts
Using a mobility aid doesn’t mean giving up your independence—it means protecting it.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you or your loved one can stay safe, mobile, and confident every day.