There are a few different types of walkers including basic walkers, wheeled walkers, and rollators. The best option for you has to do with your balance, mobility and day-to-day activities.
After reading this article you may know the right option for you, but trying out a variety of walkers can help you make the best decision based on personal comfort. Keep in mind, some people have a couple different types of walking aids, which they use as needed depending on how they are feeling and what activities they are partaking in.
Factors to Consider When Choosing A Walker
Types Of Walkers
First things first, here are the most common types of walkers available to you.
A basic walker, or a walker without wheels, is the most commonly used walker in America. Based upon the size of the patient, there are heavy-duty bariatric walkers, as well as junior walkers. Because they do not have wheels, basic walkers tend to be easier to use and therefore work well for adults that need more support.
Wheeled walkers are basic walkers with wheels attached to the front two legs. Wheeled walkers are easiest to use on indoor surfaces. Most have fixed wheels that do not wobble side-to-side, providing greater stability. This type of walker is best for someone who walks fairly well but still needs a little added stability, especially over uneven terrain.
Rollators are walkers that have wheels on all 4 legs, although some come with 3 legs. This type of walker gives the greatest natural range of motion and can help you get around faster than other walkers. Larger wheels are ideal if you are looking for the most possible mobility. Rollators often come with seats and storage containers, making them all the more ideal.
Three wheel rollators are perfect for navigating tight spaces because of their enhanced turning radius. They are easy to fold up and fit through narrow doorways. This type of walker is too compact to include a seat, so if that’s important to you, consider a four-wheel rollator instead.
Four wheel rollators are better for long trips or outdoor adventures. Since this type of walker is wider than a 3-wheel option it isn’t going to fit through as narrow of spaces. It doesn’t have the same swift turning radius either. Four wheel rollators typically have larger wheels, which makes it easier to push them across uneven surfaces. They usually come with a seat and a storage compartment.
Roller/transport chair is a traditional rollator that can also be used as a transport chair that a caregiver can push. Traditional rollators may have a seat, but are not to be used while someone is sitting on the seat. Instead, the seat is just a resting place when the rollator is not in motion. A roller transport chair, on the other hand, provides greater flexibility, as it doubles as a walker and a wheelchair.
Canes provide far less help and support than walkers, but might be the best option for you if you’re only looking for a little extra stability. For instance, if your walk is balanced but you struggle standing up or sitting down, a cane can be very beneficial and is less cumbersome than a traditional walker.
Walker Vs. Rollators: A Quick Break Down Of The Facts
Walker
-A basic walker with no wheels is the most common type of walker in use.
-Lightweight and very potable
-Provides the greatest support and balance assistance when walking.
-Best for indoor use and even terrain.
-The walker must be lifted over any surface that is not even or smooth.
Seniors that require more support or are in recovery more commonly rely on basic walkers because of the added support they provide.
Rollators (a traditional walker with 2-4 wheels)
-Slightly heavier than basic walkers without wheels.
-Easy and comfortable to push for longer walks.
-Works great outdoors, even on uneven terrain.
-Often comes with a seat for you to rest on.
Active seniors that need a long-term walking aid most commonly rely on rollators.
Do you need wheels on your walker?
If you are balanced and can move fairly quickly you may want to consider a rollator for the greatest mobility. On the other hand, if walking is a struggle and you prefer to move slow, steady and safe, a basic walker may be a better option for you. If you find yourself leaving your walker behind because it’s slowing you down, you should definitely consider a rollator.
No matter if you need wheels on your walker or not, you’re going to need some wheels capable of transporting you around town. Stellar Transportation provides superior non-emergency medical transportation to patients of all mobility types. Contact us today for a competitive quote on local and long distance transportation in Melbourne and beyond.