What’s Right for Me?
- In deciding whether to go with a basic or wheeled walker, consider whether you will be able to handle having wheels. You should be able to control both the wheels and brakes effectively.
- The next decision is to make sure the walker will be comfortable to use. Take into account your height, weight, and lifting capability. There will be times that you need to lift or shift the walker away from uneven surfaces, so models that are lightweight are important to look for.
- If you travel outside of your home frequently, choose a walker that folds down for easy storage and travel.
- Many of the rolling walkers, or rollators, come with seats. If you find yourself tiring easily and needing a sitting break, rollators with seats and storage baskets are a good choice.
- Rollator/transport chair combination products are useful if you want to walk part of the time and be pushed (transported) part of the time.
- Walkers provide the maximum stability. However, if you’re looking for something to provide minimal help, a cane might be the solution. Canes improve your ability to get up from a chair or can help with your balance.
- There are many canes to choose from, including standard, quad and folding models. The new gel-grip handle and ergonomic design make this style comfortable to grip.
Differences between Walkers and Rollators
Choosing the right walking aid for you or your loved one can be confusing because of the many varied mobility products to choose from. Below are some tips to make shopping for a walking aid easier.
Basic Walker (without wheels)
This is the most common type of walker, and it is available in regular, heavy duty (bariatric) and junior styles. These are best used on indoor surfaces. Because there are no wheels, basic walkers provide the most stability for those who need a little extra help.
Wheeled Walkers
These are simply walkers with wheels. The wheels provide easier mobility and ease of movement outdoors. On our website, wheeled walkers are classified as those walkers with two wheels in the front of the walker. These wheels are often fixed, meaning they do not swivel side to side. Wheeled walkers are a good choice for those who want extra stability but want help traversing uneven terrain.
Rollators
Rollators are walkers with wheels on all four legs. Rollators offer the greatest range of movement and the most mobility with many models offering swivel wheels and hand brakes. Rollators with larger wheels offer the most mobility. Rollators are often equipped with seats and baskets making them the perfect choice for those who are on the go.
See our comparison chart to quickly help decide which features are right for you.
