What You May Not Know About Walkers for Seniors

Walkers are popular mobility aids among senior citizens. These assistive devices aid both walking ability and independence. Walkers also reduce the risk of falling. One study found that 75 percent of seniors who experienced a fall were not using their assistive devices.

Benefits of Walkers for Seniors

The most significant advantage that seniors enjoy by using walkers is the mobility support they offer. Walkers are designed to keep the user stable while moving around, providing safer travel. Most walkers have wheels that are capable of gliding over indoor and outdoor surfaces, helping seniors travel short to long distances with the assistance they need.

Using a walker also serves a physical therapy purpose by allowing a senior to maintain or resume physical activity despite weakness, balance issues, or injury. Walking is critical for blood flow and muscle strength, and also has psychological benefits.

Walkers are easy to use, and most are inexpensive, making these accessible tools for promoting seniors’ health and wellness.

Buying Considerations

When considering buying a walker, the purpose is the most important reason to consider, and that will determine which walker to purchase. A senior who needs a walker just for outdoor activity may consider an outdoor style walker with durable tires, while one recovering from knee surgery would best benefit from a knee-style walker.

Having an understanding of the different styles of walkers for seniors will help to select the best walking aid with the most beneficial features.

Top 5 Walkers for Seniors

Here are the top five walkers for seniors based on the type of walker.

All-Terrain Walker – NOVA Traveler

This traveling walker features 8-inch rubber wheels capable of indoor and outdoor use on any terrain. Easy to use “feather touch” hand brakes are convenient even for restricted hand strength. It has a convenient storage basket, pouch, and tray. This walker supports users between 5’4” and 6’2” and up to 250 pounds.

Outdoor Walker – KneeRover All Terrain

Unlike an urban walker, this knee walker has 12-inch pneumatic tires that will travel any surface. It has a contoured, adjustable knee pad, a storage basket, traditional bicycle braking for extra control, and is fully adjustable. This walker supports users between 5’6” and 6’6” and up to 350 pounds.

Three-wheeled Walker – Carex Trio Rolling Walker

This three-wheeled walker is designed for easy maneuverability during assisted walking. While compatible with navigating tight spaces, this walker also features 7-inch wheels with brakes. This walker is height-adjustable from 31.75” to 38” and supports users up to 250 pounds.

Walker with Seat – Drive Medical Four Wheel Rollator Walker

This walker features a durable steel frame and seat capable of supporting most users for indoor or outdoor use. It is adjustable and foldable, features a storage basket, and is suitable for traveling. It is height-adjustable from 31” to 37” and supports users up to 300 pounds.

Standard Walker – Drive Medical Deluxe

With a simple, U-shaped frame, this walker is a basic, durable design. It has contoured hand grips and a push-button folding mechanism. This walker is height-adjustable from 32” to 39” and supports users up to 350 pounds.

Walkers provide mobility assistance that promotes a senior’s movement and freedom. While these tools reduce a senior’s risk of falling, it’s a good idea to have a backup plan in place. Consider getting a medical alert system for your loved one so they may access emergency assistance in case of a fall.