Staying active can help with weight loss. That’s why if you need to use walkers to help you get around better, you might want to look at some of these walkers before purchasing one. They have great designs that will let you maneuver them on any terrain. Plus, they have added safety features to ensure that they don’t tip over or allow you to fall out while you’re using them.
Standard Walkers
A standard walker is an excellent option for loved ones who have difficulty walking but still need some assistance to get around. They provide more support than forearm crutches and have four legs that help steady balance. The walker also has a loop that helps your loved ones hold onto it for extra stability when walking. Keep in mind that a standard walker is less portable than a folding walker because it requires space for all of its legs to remain in place while walking. A good choice if your loved one needs to use a walker indoors or outdoors on level surfaces.
Front-Wheeled Walkers
The front-wheeled walker allows for more mobility than a standard wheelchair but may not be suitable for people who have balance problems. This type of walker features four wheels with two in front and two in back. The rear wheels are usually more extensive than the ones in front to provide more excellent stability. This type of walker is heavier than other models, so it’s often best suited for short distances and on even surfaces such as sidewalks and flat indoor floors. Keep in mind that some people may not reach far enough forward while seated on a front-wheeled walker, making it more challenging to move through narrow spaces or enter vehicles like cars or vans.
Rollator Walkers
A rollator walker is typically what people think of when they hear a walker. It has four wheels and allows you to stand upright while walking. Often, these are used by people who cannot use crutches or have trouble balancing because it gives them extra support. There are two varieties: those that lean back slightly and those that don’t lean back at all. The first kind allows loved ones to lean back for more comfort when they need it but can take some more time getting used to. The second kind takes some time to get used to but helps prevent falls since it forces your body to stay in an upright position without help from your hands.
Considerations When Buying Senior Walkers
Don’t buy a walker if it doesn’t offer an adjustable height. Your parent will need to be able to lower or raise their walker as they lose or gain weight. Since everyone is different, look for a walker that offers two or three different height settings.
A good walker should have three wheels, not four. While some people find 4-wheel models convenient for traveling long distances, they are less stable because there are more points of contact with the ground. Three-wheeled walkers are more durable because they have fewer contact points.
A walker with a good weight rating can accommodate heavier users, making it more versatile and useful for a wider variety of older adults. Your walker’s weight rating is based on its ability to support up to 250 pounds.
