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Physiotherapy in Care Settings – Walking Aids
This Open Badge is awarded to people who can demonstrate understanding of why walking aids feature as part of people’s daily lives, how to carry out routine walking aid safety inspections and any appropriate follow up actions.
This Open Badge is designed to help people appreciate the vital role of walking aids in assisting people to remain as independent as safely possible, support mobility, stability and improve overall quality of life.
The appropriate use of a walking aid can provide support for participation in activities of daily living and can help reduce the risk of falling. It is crucial that the correct walking aid (e.g. walking sticks, elbow crutches, rollator frame, wheeled walker) matches the needs of each individual.
Following referral, physiotherapists carry out person-centred assessments and where appropriate, will issue and advise on walking aids and will arrange timely reviews where required.
When discharged from physiotherapy, it is the responsibility of the care home to maintain and monitor the safe use of walking aids and completion of this Open Badge will help you to effectively achieve this.
Individuals require to wear footwear that is secure to the foot, fits well and is in a safe condition to undertake the below criteria.
- Watch the following videos (5 minutes):
- Download the following form how to measure for a walking aid and complete a measurement with someone you care for.
- Download and complete the Walking aid safety inspection record and write a short reflective account explaining why this is important. (50 words).
- Explain how you will use what you have learned in your practice in a person centred way. (100 words minimum)
- Discuss what you have learned with someone (e.g. line manager or colleague) and make a short note of this discussion. (50 words minimum).
This badge does not require you to hold any other badges however you may find it useful to complete Getting started with Open Badges & Writing Evidence for Open Badges if you are new to Open Badges.
You will need to submit a written statement, in response to the questions asked in the criteria. You can write your statement directly on the badge application form or paste a link to your own blog or portfolio.
We will also accept an audio or video submission if you prefer.
The evidence you submit will be viewable by anyone who you show your badge to. Do not include confidential or private information within your submission.
Badge issuer
Scottish Social Services Council
Promoting high standards, raising public confidence and developing a trained and trusted social service workforce in Scotland.
Submit your application
I confirm that I have read, understood and completed all the activities listed in the badge criteria and that each question from the criteria is answered in the evidence I have provided. My evidence has been written or recorded by me and I have not copied it from anywhere or anyone else. I understand that it will take 28 days for you to assess my application and that feedback cannot be provided if my application is unsuccessful.
Your evidence, name, and email address will be sent to the organisation who issue this badge