Walking aids in geriatric rehabilitation as double-edged swords: a Franco-Cameroonian comparative study of contextual factors in long-term functional outcomes

Background: Walking aids are fundamental tools in geriatric rehabilitation, yet their prescription and functional impact across different socio-cultural and environmental contexts remain poorly understood. This comparative study examines how contextual factors influence long-term functional outcomes associated with walking aid use in France and Cameroon. Methods: We used a sequential mixed-methods approach combining structured clinical observations in France (2016–2022, n=173 geriatric patients) with a prospective observational study in Cameroon (2022–2025, n=250 patients aged >65 y). Data collection included standardized functional assessments (timed up and go, 6-min walk test, Berg Balance Scale), technical evaluation of walking aids, semi-structured interviews, environmental assessment, and focus groups. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS v27, whereas qualitative data underwent grounded theory analysis with triangulation. Results: In Cameroon, 69% of walking aids were self-acquired without professional prescription compared with 12% in France ( P