Examination of Factors Associated with Self-Reported Cane Use among Community-Dwelling Older Adults

BACKGROUND: This study investigates factors influencing cane use among older adults and identifies most significant determinants. METHODS: This study is a cross-sectional study. A total of 160 community-dwelling older adults (mean age, 79±7 years) were included in the analysis. Binomial logistic regression analysis was conducted using the presence or absence of cane use as the dependent variable, and the associated factors were investigated. RESULTS: There were 108 participants (mean age, 77±7 years) in the cane-non-using group and 52 (mean age, 83±6 years) in the cane-using group. Factors associated with the presence or absence of cane use were open-eyed one-leg standing time (odds ratio [OR]=0.81; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.70-0.93; p=0.003) and depressed mood (OR=2.78; 95% CI, 1.31-5.91; p=0.008). CONCLUSION: Older adults with reduced balance ability and depressive mood need to use a cane. This highlights the need to assess balance ability and depressed mood in prescribing a cane to older adults. Appropriate prescription of canes has the potential to enrich the lives of older adults by contributing to their safe range of activities.