Walker Facts

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Case Study

Diagnosis:

A 68 year old woman diagnosed with COPD for the past 5 years now requires oxygen 24/7. Osteoporosis contributes to a kyphotic spine.

Challenges and Strengths:

• Poor posture exacerbates breathing difficulties already present through COPD.
• Unable to transport her 0₂, ambulate, and maintain good posture.
• Confined to her apartment.
• Fatigues.
• Decreased strength and is de-conditioned.
• Good balance.
• Socially isolated.
• Depressed.
• Lives in Retirement Home with ramped access, no thresholds, and wide doorways.
• Independent in all her personal care needs in the home.
• Supportive family provides transportation to shopping and doctor’s appointments.
• Cognitively intact and able to learn new skills.

Solution:

Rollator designed for indoor/outdoor use, with O₂ Holder and comfortable seating.

The push handles were set at the height of the client’s wrists with her elbows slightly bent. The height encourages this client to adopt an upright position while walking, maximizes chest expansion/excursion and provides support during the “Recovery Position” used to regain breathing control in sitting. The recovery position allows people to regain control of their breathing after exercise or walking beyond their endurance.

This patient was taught to sit on her rollator, rest her forearms on the push handles, and take 3 to 4 slow controlled deep breaths. Pursed lip breathing is encouraged. Once rested and breathing control is regained she can then continue with her activity.

This rollator allowed the client to walk further and improve her exercise tolerance. She re-engaged in the activities of the retirement home and returned to the communal dining area. Her family easily managed the rollator in and out of the car and community outings no longer revolved only around doctor’s appointments.