Caregiver Guide to Walker Safety

Signs the Walker Needs Attention

• Worn or cracked rubber tips that no longer grip the floor
• Wheels that stick, squeak, or do not spin freely
• Loose folding joints that wobble when the walker is open
• Handgrip foam that has compressed, torn, or started to slide off
• Bent or dented legs from a previous fall or impact

Helping Without Hovering

Many walker users value their independence highly. Rather than taking over, focus on creating safe conditions and letting your loved one move at their own pace. Walk beside them rather than holding the walker. Offer verbal cues about obstacles ahead instead of physically steering. Encouraging autonomy builds confidence and helps maintain strength.

Mobility Support Strategies

• Keep commonly used items at waist height to reduce reaching and bending
• Clear walkways of clutter and ensure adequate lighting
• Accompany your loved one on short daily walks to maintain strength
• Schedule regular check-ins with a physical therapist for gait assessment
• Encourage use of the walker consistently, even for short distances

How OmniWheel Helps Caregivers

The OmniWheel system reduces common situations where caregivers need to intervene. Because the wheels move in any direction, users can navigate tight spaces, doorways, and turns without lifting or repositioning the walker. This means fewer moments of instability that require a caregiver to step in, less physical strain from assisting with direction changes, and greater peace of mind when the user is moving independently.

Emergency Preparedness

• Ensure the user carries a phone or wearable alert device when walking alone
• Practice a safe method for getting up from the floor after a fall
• Keep emergency contact numbers posted in visible locations
• Discuss a communication plan for reporting near-falls or balance changes