Gerotechnology series: 2. Walking aids

Mobility impairment is a common problem in older people. Walking aids can help to maintain independence by reducing pain and overcoming problems with poor balance, gait, posture and limb weakness. There is little published on this subject that is accessible to the nonspecialist and we have written a beginners’ guide to the nomenclature of ambulistics and offer practical tips. We describe the different types of sticks and frames available and when their use is most appropriate.