Parameters before you buy Walkers for Seniors

There may come a time when walking from place to place becomes difficult. Chances are there won’t be someone around at all times to help you walk safely. It’s times likes these when a walker can come in handy. Walkers are also useful for people after they’ve had surgery and are trying to regain their mobility.

A walker comes in different varieties. The standard model is a simple four-legged framework, mostly made out of aluminum or metal that is used to help a person walk. Walkers are usually waist high so the user can lean on it for support while walking. The walker supports a person’s weight as they walk and is also used to help a person keep balance.

Types of Walkers for Seniors

All walkers basically serve the same purpose, but there are different types to help with individual needs.

Basic Folding Walker: As the name suggests, this is as simple as they come. This walker is the most common and provides stability for those who need a little extra help walking. It is made out of aluminum and is lightweight. These walkers are best for indoor use.

They come in two different styles; one button or two buttons. The one-button style gives the option of only completely opening the walker at once or completely closing it. It’s all or nothing. With the two-button style, each side folds up one at a time. This allows the user to fold up one side and still use the other side for stability. Either one is easy to transport.

Two Wheeled Walker: Some people need more than just support when walking. The 2-wheeled walker glides along with the user as they walk with wheels on each of the two front legs. These walkers never leave the floor. Some people put tennis balls on the back wheels to help the walker glide along further.

Three Wheeled Walker: This walker looks like a triangle with one wheel in the front and two in the back. The user pushes the walker with the front wheel and uses the back two to balance. This type of walker is best suited for those who need support due to balance and strength issues but do not need a seat to rest.

Rollator (4-wheeled walker): The 4-wheeled walker is more commonly known as a rollator. This walker has wheels on all four legs and glides along with the user. The user must have enough strength to control the walker so it doesn’t go too fast. These walkers offer great mobility as they have swivel handlebars and hand brakes. They have seats and are also often equipped with baskets which are perfect for seniors on the go. When the user wants to take a break, he or she can lock the wheels and lower the seat to sit.

Bariatric Walker: These walkers serve the same purpose as the basic walker but can support someone over 135 Kgs. Some bariatric walkers can support up to 450 Kgs. They are heavier by design because they are made to hold more weight than the average walker.

Knee Walker: This walker looks like a scooter and is mainly used by people who need to rest one leg. It is often used by people who have injuries on one side of their body. The user bends his or her knee and rests it on the cushion. The other leg works in conjunction with the four wheels to glide along. There are handlebars to hold on to as well. Some models are also steerable. These walkers are usually used on a temporary basis.

Before buying a walker be sure to ask yourself these questions so you end up with the right one for your needs.