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Types of Assisted Walking Devices

Just because you've lost some mobility because of an accident or a genetic disability doesn't mean you can't get at least some of it back. There are a wide range of assisted walking devices available on the market that help you perform a range of activities that include walking, whether it be just walking across the room or climbing a flight of stairs.

  1. Cane

    • A single-point cane may be the simplest assisted walking device, meant for those with only mildly impaired balance and stability. A cane gives the user an extra point of contact with the ground and a weigh to distribute a little bit of extra weight. It is good for those who have a little bit of weakness in the legs and can generally walk otherwise. Those with moderately impaired balance and stability can try a quad cane, which has four points of contact with the ground.

    Hemi Walker

    • For those who need more support than that of a cane but not so much that it requires a walker, the hemi walker provided extra support but only requires one hand for operation. It has cane-like functions but has four leg extensions. It is also light enough to allow the user to lift it easily with one hand. The person uses the hemi walker at her side, which is why some call it a side walker.

    Crutches

    • Crutches are a common assisted walking device for people who suffer some sort of injury which renders one of their legs unusable. Manufacturers also make bilateral crutches for older adults to reduce the weight load on one leg. Crutches are made out of aluminum or wood and fit under the armpit of the user. A person using crutches should have enough strength and balance for safe use.

    Walker

    • A walker is for people with severaly impaired stability. A person can use the walker to take a lot of the weight of his feet and also stay stable, as the walker has four points of contact with the ground. Walkers can come in the regular pick-up variety or have front wheels to increase mobility. Some walkers have modifications to them that allow the user to climb stairs. The user activates a release mechanism that will either extend or shorten the walker's front legs, making them level with the steps and enabling the person to walk up or down stairs safely.

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