Winter in Calgary and the surrounding Alberta communities can be beautiful. However, as we all know, it also brings snow, ice and slippery conditions that make mobility more challenging. For older adults and individuals who rely on walkers or rollators for mobility, winter adds an extra layer of risk that should not be ignored.
While walker safety is important year-round, it becomes especially critical during the colder months when icy sidewalks and uneven terrain increase the likelihood of falls. With proper use, regular maintenance and a few seasonal precautions, your walker can continue to provide reliable support and independence all winter long.
Follow these important walker safety tips.
Ensure your walking paths are well maintained. Sidewalks, driveways, ramps and entryways should be regularly shoveled and treated with salt or sand to improve traction. If you live in a condo or apartment complex, it is worth confirming that snow removal is being done promptly and thoroughly.
Plan your routes carefully. Whenever possible, choose paths that are well lit, flat and regularly cleared of snow and ice. Avoid shortcuts across snowbanks or unplowed areas. This is because walker wheels can sink or catch unexpectedly, causing loss of balance. Sticking to familiar, well-maintained routes helps reduce surprises that could lead to a fall.
Take shorter, slower steps. Doing so allows for better control and balance. Before stepping forward, make sure your walker is firmly planted and stable. Rushing increases the risk of slipping. Allow extra time to get where you need. If conditions feel particularly challenging, have a family member or caregiver accompany you outdoors. He or she can provide added confidence and support.
“Learn how to Walk Like a Penguin,” encourages All Seniors Care, “Walk slowly, take small steps, and point your toes out slightly to be more stable on icy paths. Concentrate on keeping your balance. Watch where you are stepping and go slowly. Keep your head up and don’t lean forward.”
Wear proper footwear and winter clothing. Shoes or boots with non-slip soles improve traction and help prevent slips. Staying warm is equally important. Cold muscles and joints can feel stiff and less responsive, affecting balance. Bright or reflective outerwear can also improve visibility during Calgary’s shorter winter days. This is especially important when crossing streets or walking near traffic.
Practice these walker winter maintenance tips.
Inspect the wheels. They should roll smoothly and evenly at all times. During everyday use, hair, carpet fibres, dirt and winter debris can become lodged in the wheel axles and bearings. This buildup can cause wheels to stick or roll unevenly, making the walker harder to control. Taking time to clean the wheels and remove debris helps maintain smooth operation and reduces strain on your arms and shoulders.
Check the brakes. Brake cables can stretch over time, wheels can wear down and brake effectiveness can change without you noticing. Regularly testing the brakes before going out is essential. If the brakes feel loose or fail to engage properly, they need adjustment. This is especially important in winter when reliable braking is needed to stop safely on slick or sloped surfaces.
Many rollators are equipped with slow-down brakes. They are designed to provide gentle resistance and added control. These brakes must be properly balanced on both wheels. If one slow-down brake has more tension than the other, the walker may pull or twist to one side. This can be very unsafe. Uneven brake tension should be addressed immediately to ensure straight, stable movement.
Examine the components. Cold temperatures can cause walker parts to loosen as materials expand and contract. Handles, screws, joints and frames should be checked regularly to ensure everything is secure. A loose handle or wobbly frame can compromise stability and increase the risk of a fall.
Keep the walker clean. After using your walker outdoors, especially in wet or slushy conditions, it is important to clean and dry it thoroughly. Moisture, snow and road salt can contribute to rust or corrosion over time. Wiping down the frame and wheels and storing the walker in a dry place helps extend its lifespan and keeps it functioning safely.
Schedule a thorough inspection once a month. This is a good habit during the winter season. Look for signs of wear, damage or changes in how the walker handles. Addressing small issues early can prevent larger problems later.
Know when to seek professional assistance.
Some maintenance tasks are best handled by trained professionals. Do your brakes not work properly even after adjustment? Are the wheels wobbling or resisting rolling? Does any part of the frame appear damaged? Answering “yes” to any of these questions is a sign it is time to seek expert help.
A qualified mobility equipment provider can assess your walker, make necessary repairs and ensure it is safe for winter use. Professional servicing provides peace of mind and helps prevent accidents caused by equipment failure.
A note on “four-wheel walkers” and AADL funding.
In Alberta, you may hear rollators referred to as “four-wheel walkers,” particularly in relation to Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL) funding. This terminology comes from earlier AADL program language, which did not use the term “rollator” but instead categorized these devices as four-wheel walkers. Understanding this distinction can be helpful when navigating funding options or paperwork related to mobility aids.
Stay confident and safe with our Walker Health & Safety Clinic!
Introducing our latest promotion! On the last Tuesday of each month from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, our friendly and knowledgeable team offers FREE walker health and safety assessments. You’re welcome to bring in your own walker! We’ll review key safety concerns, check fit and function and provide practical recommendations to help you move more comfortably and securely.
If your walker is a daily companion or one you use for travel, this clinic is a great opportunity to ensure it is supporting you properly. The clinic takes place at Advantage Home Health Solutions, 1667 32 Ave NE, Calgary, AB T2E 7Z5. Spots are limited, so booking ahead is recommended. To reserve your appointment or learn more about our high-quality walkers and rollators, call us today at 403-460-5438. You may also email us by filling out the form on our Contact page!
