Types of Walkers Available

Depending on medical history and other factors, people age differently. There are, however, several factors that are common among most elderly. One such factor is the loss of mobility. As the body ages, internal structures such as joints have a tendency to stiffen and lose full function. Sometimes, assistance with mobility may be necessary.

Medical Walkers Without Wheels

• Medical walkers are one type of tool that can be used for walking assistance. When stability in the major concern, the individual may choose a standard four-legged walker without wheels. Constructed of a strong, light-weight metal, a walker without wheels is designed to give the user assistance with balance. Rubber stoppers on the legs prevent the walker from sliding forward. The user must be able to lift the walker to reposition it with each step.

Two-Wheeled Walkers

• Walkers with two wheels are similar in structure to the non-wheeled walker. They provide balance and stability but are easier to move as the two front legs have wheels. The user only has to lift the back wheels off the ground and push the walker forward on its wheels. Two-wheeled walkers also allow the user to place weight on the walker.

Other Wheeled Walkers

• Medical walkers with wheels are often called rollators. Rollators generally have wheels on all their legs; either three or four, depending on the structure of the walker. Users who do not have difficulty with balance may find that they move more quickly with wheels on all the legs of the walker. They are also beneficial to a user with limited strength as they do not require any lifting for mobility.