| |
Physiotherapists specialize in issues that affect mobility, balance and movement. There are many reasons as to why a person may need a walking aid. ie a cane, crutches, a walker or a rollator (a wheeled walker).
The Ontario Ministry of Health provides an excellent program to assist with funding for wheeled walkers, through their Assistive Devices Program (ADP). If someone requires a walker on a regular basis to move about independently wherever they live or to access a vehicle at their curbside, they qualify for financial assistance up to 75% of the retail cost. This is "needs" not "means" tested and the individual must be assessed by a health professional trained and authorized by the ADP program to complete the assessment and the application process. The equipment must be purchased from an authorized vendor. Please refer to the following website for additional information:
All physiotherapists associated with Access At Home Physiotherapy are ADP authorizers.
Each ADP assessment will consist of:
- a full gait and balance assessment
- completion of the claim form
- where to purchase the walker
- follow up visit after you have purchased your walker
If you have extended Health Benefits, the cost of the physiotherapy assessment and the client portion of the walker fee may be partially of fully covered. A doctor's prescription is not necessary to participate in the ADP program or the physiotherapy assessment but may be required for your health claim; be sure to check with your benefit provider prior to having the assessment and purchasing the walker.
Many seniors feel using a walker will make them "dependent" and they will become weaker. However, it absolutely has the opposite effect! If you are starting to hang on to walls and furniture when you walk, have even a slight fear of falling, or you are starting to go out less, you should consider acquiring a walker. Once you start using the walker you will walk further and more frequently. You will become stronger, fitter and much more confident. You will minimize your fall risk.
Think of it as an exercise machine to improve you fitness!!
|
|
