Walkers

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Walking Aids: Canes, Folding Walkers, and Rollator Walkers

Types of Walking Aids

There are many different types of walking aids available for individuals with disabilities or injuries, including a cane, standard medical walker, wheeled walker, and rollator. Finding the right medical aid is important for the user's comfort, independence, and rehabilitation. This buying guide will explore some of the benefits of different types of walking aids.

Ask your healthcare professional for assistance in choosing the right walking aid for your physical condition and abilities.

1. Walking Cane

Do you find yourself needing a little extra support when getting out of a chair? Do you need help maintaining your balance and walking with a normal gait? A walking cane provides an extra point of contact with the ground that aids in balance and takes some of the weight off a weak or injured leg.

For users who need more weight bearing support, an offset cane allows the user to lean more heavily on the cane. For even more support, a large base quad cane offers a broader support base and more weight bearing capabilities.

2. Folding Medical Walker

With a sturdy, lightweight frame that surrounds the user on three sides, walkers offer more support and stability than canes. Folding walkers are also great for travel because they fold up tightly and fit easily into the trunk or back seat of a vehicle.

Standard Folding Walker

Besides a cane, the standard folding walker with no wheels is one of the lightest and simplest walking aids available. The wrap-around frame allows the user to grasp both sides of the walker for more stability than a cane. The lightweight frame is easy to lift and move forward for a steady walking gait.

Two-Wheeled Folding Walker

The two wheeled folding walker is one of the most common walking aids because of its easy rolling mobility and its economical price. The two small wheels in front allow the user to roll the walker forward with no lifting required. Ski glides, glide caps, or tennis balls added to the rear legs reduce friction and allow the walker to glide smoothly over almost any surface.

3. Rollator Walker

Rollator walkers offer the same support as folding walkers, but they are easier to move. A three-wheeled or four-wheeled rolling walker with hand brakes (also known as a rollator) is perfect for strolling outdoors. A 3-wheeled walker is lightweight and easy to maneuver, while a 4-wheeled walker offers more stability and comes with a built-in seat that allows the user to stop and rest while walking from one point to the next.

A rolling walker with hand brakes allows the user to slow down, stop, or lock the rollator in place. When the hand brakes are in the locked position, the user can safely sit down on the padded seat and lean against the backrest. The seat flips up for convenient storage and flips back down for seating.

Adjusting Walker Height

Most walkers are adjustable in height for correct posture and ease of use. The handles should be at wrist height when the user's arms are extended downward. When the user's hands are placed on the hand grips, the elbows should be bent at a 20-30 degree angle. Make sure the walker is adjusted to the proper height before use.

Walker Accessories

Walker accessories such as baskets, bags, trays, and cup holders can make the walker more user-friendly and practical. Most accessories are universal and easily attach to the walker frame for use.