Q: My wife, Arlene, uses a walker and takes good care of it. Is there a place in southern Broward County or northeast Miami-Dade County where she could get her walker checked out, like an oil change? — David Merves, Aventura
A: David, it is so important to make sure your wife’s walker remains in excellent working order to prevent malfunctions and accidents. There are several levels of maintenance, and fortunately, some are easy enough to be done at home.
First, keep it clean. Use soapy water and a cloth to wipe down the frame, especially around the joints and where the hands grip the metal. Make sure to dry thoroughly to prevent rust.
David Schutz / South Florida Sun Sentinel
Got a question about life in South Florida? Send to Lois at AskLois@sunsentinel.com. (David Schutz/South Florida Sun Sentinel)
Check the wheels to see if dirt or other debris has accumulated and remove any with a small brush. Test the wheels by spinning them; they should roll smoothly. If they don’t, use a lubricant or silicone-based spray to get them whirling again. Also, make sure to examine the brakes regularly and use a screwdriver to tighten if needed.
Although these adjustments can be done by the average user, it’s a good idea to have the walker checked out by professionals every few months.
I called two stores for you in the south Broward area:
- Total Mobility Services (1117A S. 21st Ave., Hollywood; 954-965-3653; totalmobilityservices.org) charges $35 for a safety check that would include basic maintenance such as testing the brakes.
- At Mobility Plus (5735 S. University Drive, Davie, 754-210-6920, mobilityplus.com), the fee is $45 for services such as cleaning, lubricating the bearings and tightening the wheels.
Both stores recommend you make an appointment before coming in. If additional parts are needed, there will be extra charges.
I am so moved by how you want to make sure your wife stays safe. And I love the way you both are being proactive to make sure this essential piece of equipment sustains its usefulness and Arlene’s connection with the outside world.
Got a question about life in South Florida? Send to AskLois@sunsentinel.com.