When there is inactivity by a WalkWise user during the day, it may indicate different scenarios.
Sedentary Lifestyle #
This can stem from weakness, pain, or a lack of motivation to move. There are concerns for further weakness, pressure ulcers, and mobility decline.
Non-compliance #
It is possible the user shows no walking activity on WalkWise not because they are sedentary, but because they are not using the walker with the smart walker attachment. They may be using other mobility aids, furniture surfing, or walking without the walker.
Impacts of environment #
Often a walker is too large for the home, making it difficult to maneuver. Some users will instead use furniture to “furniture surf”. In this instance, there is a need to find the mobility aid that works best for the environment.
Potential Emergency #
A prolonged period of unusual inactivity during the day may also indicate an acute illness or fall in which the walker may not have tipped over.
Improving Mobility #
With WalkWise, it is easy to encourage walker use. Monitoring distance per day, setting goals, creating challenges, or rewarding users are ways to increase activity. One user was challenged to take one walk per day by her therapist. Using WalkWise, the therapist noted a spike in activity once every day and was able to compliment the user, boosting both morale and mobility. Using the web app, it is simple to pull monthly, weekly, and daily graphs to challenge or show their accomplishments.