Switching from a walker to a wheelchair is a big decision for a person with a disability. It’s because the person may feel like another part of his independence is taken away. Also, the individual may need to make changes in his/her life when adapting to a wheelchair and leaving the walker.

Though the decision is difficult, it has to be made for the sake of health and safety. Change is needed depending on a person’s health condition to ensure everything goes well and life runs smoothly while maintaining ones independence without depending on others.

Now the question is “When should you switch from a walker to a wheelchair?”

In this post, we will answer this question by outlining some common signs to look for before you make your final decision.

If you feel shaky at times and are more likely to fall, then

A walker is a strong support system that prevents falling. If you are able to stand for a long time with the help of a walker and you feel comfortable, then things are probably fine. But, if you are unable to keep control and maintain your balance; and are falling very frequently, it means the support from the walker isn’t enough for you. You might get serious injuries and recovery can take longer. Also, you might worsen your condition and increase complications that may last for a lifetime. So, you should reassess your situation and switch from a walker to a wheelchair when appropriate.

If you are unable to get very far with your walker, then

You might want to access your situation and start considering the support from a wheelchair. For, instance, if you are unable to cover long walking distance; or doing other physical activities have become too difficult, you should probably consider a wheelchair instead of a walker. If you continue to use a walker, you might be straining your legs or make the situation worse. The constant pressure on your legs will deteriorate the condition and it will worsen over time. In addition, if you need to rest frequently, and feel the need to sit constantly, a wheelchair might be a better solution as opposed to a walker.

If walking has become painful

With a walker, you have to walk for a long to reach your destination without support from others. But it’s only possible if your legs are strong and walking is comfortable. If walking is painful and causing discomfort, you shouldn’t burden your legs and should switch to a wheelchair. Discomfort means something is not right in your leg or you are unable to tolerate the pain caused by walking. Using a wheelchair will make things different and alleviate your pain.

Once you identify these signs and prepare your mind for the switch, you should connect with a reputable durable medical equipment supplier. The supplier will help you select the right wheelchair based on your health condition, needs as well as your doctor’s recommendation.

Using a Wheelchair doesn’t restrict your freedom!

People think sitting in a wheelchair means losing all the freedom. They have to depend on others to move them around to visit places. But, it isn’t true.

Once you connect with the durable medical equipment supplier, you know there are different types of wheelchairs available on the market. There are manual as well power/electric wheelchairs for easy use. You don’t have to depend on others and you can move anywhere and everywhere freely just by switching the Power ON button. It’s just about pushing a button and you are free like a bird!

Other than a wheelchair, different accessories may make the journey more comfortable forever, such as a wheelchair cushion.