@article{ref1,
title="Walking devices used by the elderly living in rural areas of Thailand",
journal="Malaysian journal of medical sciences",
year="2015",
author="Patcharawan, Suwannarat and Thaweewannakij, Thiwabhorn and Kaewsanmung, Supapon and Kaewjoho, Chonticha and Saengsuwan, Jiamjit and Amatachaya, Sugalya",
volume="22",
number="2",
pages="48-54",
abstract="BACKGROUND: The use of all types of external devices was previously investigated for elderly with and without orthopaedic problems of a developed country. This study describes the proportion, types and the reasons of using a walking device in elderly who live in many rural areas of Thailand. <br><br>METHODS: Participants (n = 390) were interviewed using a questionnaire to ascertain their demographics, health status and types of walking device required for daily activities. <br><br>RESULTS: Forty-one participants (11%) used a walking device, particularly when walking long distances due to a fear of falling, musculoskeletal pain, and impaired walking ability. The proportion of walking devices used dramatically increased in participants aged 75 years and over (six times of those aged 60-74 years). Most of the participants used a modified walking stick by their own determination (81%), while only 7% used one according to medical prescription. A significant increase in the need of a walking device was seen in participants aged 75 years and over (OR = 13.9; 95% CI 5.9-32.7; P < 0.001), with a medical problem (OR = 45.9; 95% CI 6.7-73.4; P < 0.001) and who required regular medication (OR = 12.7; 95% CI 5.0-33.6; P = 0.001). <br><br>CONCLUSION: The findings emphasise the importance of a community health service to promote health status, particularly before 75 years of age.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="1394-195X",
doi="",
url="http://dx.doi.org/"
}