Mobility is critical for seniors. Studies show that loss of independence is a real fear among aging individuals, which leads to anxiety and depression.
Mobility aids, like walkers, play an instrumental role in senior independence. The right walker helps seniors run errands, go to doctors’ appointments, enjoy the park, and spend time with family.
Walkers aren’t just for seniors, either. They’re also a necessity for patients recovering from surgery or stroke.
You don’t have to grab the first walker you find. Take your time to find the best walkers for seniors. Medicare may even cover the costs of your new walker!
Follow this quick guide to find the perfect fit.
Walkers with Wheels
There are different types of walkers, but the best walkers for seniors have sturdy legs and come up to the waist. They must accommodate weight as seniors lean over. Walkers should feature strong gripping material and rubber casters to prevent slips and falls.
Not all senior walkers come with wheels, but wheels can help seniors better maneuver around corners. They’re also good for outdoor use and walking over rough surfaces, like cobblestone, asphalt, and cement sidewalks.
Wheeled walkers are also great for indoor use, and they’re not as big and bulky as some would think.
If you live in a small apartment, look at these narrow walkers to imagine how they would fit into your apartment. Narrow-wheeled walkers are designed to maneuver through tight hallways, tiny bathrooms, and narrow doorways.
You could buy wheeled walkers with just two wheels on the front two legs; this walker would be fine for indoor and light outdoor use.
Three-wheeled walkers are another option. These models have three legs, with two wheels in the back and one in front. This is an excellent walker for improving strength.
Walkers with Seats
One of the biggest concerns for seniors is standing and walking at social events. Weddings, parties, and family outings can last hours. Fortunately, there are senior walkers with built-in seats.
One of the most popular walkers is the rollator. Rollator walkers come with four sturdy wheels, comfortable handlebars, seats, and removable backrests. These walkers are ideal for family vacations and general daily use.
Other Walker Types
Many seniors can’t stand on both feet for extended amounts of time. Knee walkers let seniors rest one knee on a seat as they maneuver around. These walkers resemble small scooters.
Knee walkers are typically reserved for temporary use. Seniors use them to recover from slip and fall accidents and other leg injuries.
Hemi-walkers are frequently used by stroke victims who need help balancing on one side. Seniors may use this walker permanently or temporarily to regain mobility.
For seniors who weigh more than 300 pounds, bariatric walkers are also available. Bariatric walkers are designed to withstand up to 1,000 pounds. These are the best walkers for patients undergoing gastric bypass surgery.
Discover the Best Walkers for Seniors
Do you want to improve senior independence without sacrificing safety?
Support senior mobility as much as you can.
Learn more about the best walkers for seniors to find the perfect fit. Stop by the blog to discover more valuable health and wellness advice!
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