An Analysis of Problems with Canes Encountered by Elderly Persons

Abstract

More than 4 million people in the United States use canes, and more than 60% of cane users are over 65 years old. While canes are a widely used mobility device, and reimbursable under Medicare, cane owners report a high number of problems in their use. This paper, based on the University at Buffalo Consumer Assessments Studv, examines the results of interviews with 105 non-institutionalized elders who use, and report problems with their canes. Almost half of all problems encountered with canes related to difficult or risky use resulting in incidents of tripping and getting tangled up, or abandonment because the cane was too heavy or clumsy to use. This paper also provides background information on the design of canes and recommended clinical approaches for their prescription.