How to buy the best walker for seniors?

Apart from the emotional and financial support, some elderly parents need walkers for physical support as they don’t wish to become dependent on anybody for something as simple as moving around. 

When someone decides to age in a place, staying at home for as long as possible and being connected with things surrounding them that mean the whole world to him or her, you can offer them supplementary aid so that they can again become independent. If issues related to balance are deterring your parents from moving around or if it puts them at risk of falling, only a strong and long-lasting walker can give them independence. 

Walks is a simple mobility device that helps elderly people to get around but it doesn’t mean it is meant for elderly people only. A walker can even be used by anyone who needs short-term support for a long-term balance issue or a broken bone. 

But since there are a variety of options in the walker category, you might find yourself wondering which one will be best for your needs. Well, here is a guide that will help you choose the best walker. 

What are the types of walkers?

Although the market is inundated with different types of walkers, the most common ones are- 2-wheeled, Hemi, and standard. Here is what you need to know about the three most common types of walkers- 

Standard walker

There are no wheels attached to this type of walker and for every forward step, the user has to lift the walker above the ground. If a person is not able to bear his entire weight on both legs but the condition doesn’t require a wheelchair, a standard walker can be a perfect choice. 

A standard walker is considered ideal for indoor use only and is perfect for elderly parents who are dealing with balance issues or people who are recovering from a major injury like broken bones. 

It is an easy-to-assemble walker and it is user-friendly as well. Plus, it aids in maintaining upright mobility, and it is also lightweight and portable. So, if you or your parents don’t need a wheelchair, just a little bit of support, standard walkers are all that you need. 

Wheeled walkers

It is a perfect choice for people who need a little bit of extra stability and support, especially while moving around on different kinds of surfaces. The best thing about a wheeled walker is it has stable and strong wheels and this is what offers a more normal walking pattern. 

Unlike standard walkers, wheeled walkers are equipped with both front and back wheels and therefore, it is easier to handle on both indoor and outdoor surfaces. And because of the wheels, there is no need to lift these kinds of walkers off the ground. 

If a person finds it hard to lift the walker off the ground with every moving step and if you feel like there is a need for extra support, wheeled walkers are what you need to go for while scouring the internet for the best walker. 

Hemi walker

Another popular category of walker you are easily going to find in the market is the Hemi walker. This type of walker is smaller in size in comparison to standard walkers. It has a simple frame and four legs. This walker is so lightweight and easy to maneuver that it can be held with even a single hand. 

This kind of walker is good for people who have weakness in one leg or for people who have broken bones in one leg. The price of this walker is pocket-friendly and it is known for its simple design and easy-to-use feature. 

Bariatric walkers

This type of walker has a wider frame in comparison to the traditional walker and there is another thing that makes it highly unique- its extra sturdy frame. A bariatric walker has four legs and they have wheels at the front and back, no wheels, two wheels, or even three wheels. It is the stable frame and wider than normal walker feature that makes bariatric walkers unique. 

A bariatric walker is considered ideal for larger individuals who need extra support. It delivers better stability in comparison to all the walkers that we have mentioned in this list and this might become your only reason to choose this type of walker. 

If you have parents in your house who don’t need the support of a standard walker but need to use a device for balance weight-bearing, a bariatric walker can become your best choice. 

You don’t need to be a medical expert to choose the right walker for your parents, for yourself or for your family members and friends. All you need to know is about the type of walkers and then make your decision on the basis of your specific needs.