Cosco Ability Care Offset Aluminum Cane Review

Quick View

If you need a stability cane due to weakness or injury, this is a great choice. It's very inexpensive and lightweight. It isn't  made for people to lean heavily on. It's more there for assurance and support. It definitely helped me get around when I needed it.

Full View

Last year, I was hit with vertigo that literally spun out of control. Because no one knew why this was happening to me, no one could diagnose it, thus I couldn't be given any prescriptions for products that would help me to get through the day without hurting myself. I hated to do it, but I went searching for a cane to use when I walked in open spaces. I figured, if I got dizzy, at least I could lean on that and not slump to the ground. I didn't want to spend much so I settled for a very simple metal cane that would just sort of "be there" in case I needed it. I bought the Cosco Ability Care Offset Aluminum Cane (57-520SLV) for all that it is - and isn't.

About this Cane

This cane is hollow aluminum and adjustable from 29" to 38" in one inch increments. You need only to push the button, slide the cane handle up or down and let the button go, making an audible click. That will lock the cane in place. The handle of this cane is thick grey foam with a straight shape rather than the usual inverted U shaped canes that are often seen being used. It has a thick grey rubber tip so it will not slip and a wrist strap which I have no idea what to do with but it hangs there in case I want to carry the cane around my wrist. It is rated to 250 pounds although I wouldn't trust it for anyone over maybe 185 or 190 pounds if they needed it to lean on. This is not for those who need to lean heavily on a cane all the time.

My Use

When this cane arrived, I was not thrilled to use it but it was nice looking as far as canes go. The long and thickly padded handle was easy on my hand and the rubber tubing on the bottom ensured that the cane would not slip out from under me when I needed it. I adjusted it very easily - no tools required. I just slid the top part of the shaft up, snapped it into place and was ready to roll. Er...walk.

Because this cane is so very light, it wasn't a hassle walking with it. I was embarrassed a bit to be walking with a cane that I didn't need at all times but the first time I turned my head and experienced the 30-45 second spinning, I was glad to have it. I knew from experience that the spinning passed quickly but I needed something to lean on until it did. The cane was there. I didn't put my whole body weight on it, just held onto it and allowed it to stabilize me. Once the dizziness passed, I used it for a bit of support until my equilibrium came back. For that purpose, it worked fine. I am 120 pounds and the weight I placed on the cane was fairly minimal. I think I would have been at ease using this cane if I were a heavier person as long as I didn't place my entire weight on it for support.

I am very relieved that the vertigo is gone for now and I don't use the cane any longer but it is nice to know I have it in case the need arises. It gave me a little bit of security. I would much rather embarrass myself leaning on a cane than falling or sitting on the floor until a dizzy spell passes.

My Viewpoint

Those who truly need a cane to ambulate should invest in a sturdier, more heavy-duty one that will hold their weight. The Cosco Ability Care Offset Aluminum Cane is a good choice for those who need minor support when walking. It is not a wimpy cane but I wouldn't trust it to hold up someone who truly needs a supportive cane. This one is good for those who need support when healing from injuries, who may be weak for whatever reason, or for those like me who are off balance. For what it is and what it costs (under $14.00), it is a superior product. I am going with 4 stars for the simplicity, ease of use, and the low maintenance of this cane.