Can you imagine a life without mobility? The very idea of being inactive and unable to move around independently paints a very sad and undesirable picture. However, with age or due to physical disabilities, some people need assistance while walking. Walkers, as the name suggests, are walking aids designed to make life simpler for those who need such assistance.
When it comes to picking the ideal walking aid, it can be quite confusing, since there are so many different options available in the market today. If you are looking for a walker for yourself or a family member, we can help you understand the different types and make it easy for you to pick one!
Different Types of Walkers
Different people have different requirements and that applies to people who need a walker, too. There is a diverse set of walkers that you can choose from, but it is first crucial that you understand your needs. For instance, the kind of walker a disabled adult should use will be very different from the type of walker that an old person with a normal state of mobility would need.
We recommend scheduling a visit to the doctor to gauge your needs – they are more than capable of suggesting the right type of walker depending on your physical condition.
Essentially, there are two types of walkers – those with wheels and those without. However, for the sake of easier understanding, we have split them further based on the designs. Read on!
Walkers with wheels
When we talk about walking aids with wheels, there are various types of walkers, including
1. Two-wheel walkers
This type of walkers has wheels on the front legs and is great if an individual needs weight-bearing assistance to some extent.
Take a look at Vissco’s Two-Wheel Walker with Castors or Vissco’s Invalid Walker with Brakes.
2. Four-wheel walkers
Made to assist people who do not necessarily need to lean on the walker, a four-wheeler has wheels on all legs.
View the Dura Step Walker with Four Wheels.
3. Rollators
Rollators are basically walkers with wheels, a crossbar and a seat, designed to allow the user to stop and rest as and when required.
Check out the Dura Rollator with Seat and Basket.
Check out the Avanti Rollator with Seat and Basket.
4. Standard walkers (without wheels)
A standard walker is designed to enable the user to lean on the walking aid and offers friction off the ground, thanks to the rubber shoes (base) under each leg, thus making the process of walking easier and more stable.
Looking for a standard walker?
Check out the lightweight-yet-durable Reciprocal Walker by Vissco.
Take a look at the Medipedic Plain Walker.
5. Folding/Adjustable walkers
As the name suggests, this category of walking aids includes walkers that are adjustable according to the user’s height and can be folded, thus making for easy storage and transportation.
Here’s an example of a Folding Walker with Lever System.
Or take a look at Tynor’s Reciprocating Walker for Invalids.
How to choose the right walker?
Before selecting a walker type or design, there are certain factors you must look at.
1. Mobility
Assess the potential user’s current level of mobility. In case the individual is fully fit and just needs a little additional assistance, a four-wheel rollator or even a simple walking stick should do the job. These devices are good for people who experience fatigue while walking. For people whose mobility is affected due to age or injuries, standard walkers and two-wheel walkers are great options. Standard walkers can help a person put their weight on the walking aid and even assist them when they climb staircases. And for those who suffer from extremely low mobility, walkers with a large base, rollators or four-wheel walkers can help improve their ability to move around with ease.
2. Size (walker dimensions and weight) This is one of the most important things to consider when buying a walker. Ensure that the walker fits the user correctly and can bear their weight without any problems. Most walkers available online at Seniority are designed to be apt for all kinds of users, no matter what their weight. However, adjustable walkers, as mentioned above, provide you with the flexibility to modify the height according to one’s convenience. The best way to gauge the right walker for your height is by checking the elbow bend angle. Ideally, your elbow should bend at an angle of about 15 degrees.
3. Accessories
Fixtures and accessories have become essential parts of modern-day walking aids. The most vital one is the grip since it is an integral part of the walking aid which the user holds on to while moving. Make certain the grip is comfortable and provides cushioning and friction in equal measure. Some walkers with wheels come with brakes so that the user has more control over their movement and can effectively stop or slow down as and when required. You could also choose from a range of walkers that come equipped with accessories such as trays, pouches, and baskets meant for storage.
Additional tips for walker users
• Avoid pushing the walker too far ahead, particularly on slippery surfaces.
• Keep an eye out for obstacles in the way.
• Keep your back upright.
• Make sure you wear shoes that provide you with a good grip on all kinds of surfaces.
• Take small and sure steps while walking, especially while turning or treading on uneven surfaces.
• Avoid hunching over – it is best to keep the back upright while walking with the support of a walker.
We hope this piece has given you a good insight into the types of walkers that are available for adults, senior citizens, and disabled individuals. Check out Seniority’s entire range of walkers from some of the most reliable brands in the market and take your pick now!
