For anyone with mobility issues that consist of stability and balance problems due to aging or even surgery or injury, a walker could be just what is needed to gain back mobility and stay active. But not all walkers are designed the same and what may be right for you may not be right for someone else. We have reviewed a lot of different walkers for seniors and found the best walkers for seniors do share a few characteristics.
When reviewing these walkers we try and outline the pluses and minus of each so you can make a more informed decision. So what are the best walkers for seniors? Let’s take a look.
Table of Contents
What is a Walker?
Most commonly called a walker but some still call them a walking frame is a mobility aid that helps the elderly or people with injuries the ability to walk with extra help from the walker. The walker helps with balance and stability while walking.
Walkers can come in a few different styles and models. Some have wheels others do not. But the common use for all walkers is for the ability to help that persons walk without the help of others.
Who should use a walker?
A walker should be used by anyone who feels like they need help with stability or balance while walking. Like a cane, a walker can provide a way to stay independent but unlike a can, a walker can give you more support when you need it.
You may need a walker if:
- Your older and need help walking or need help with balance
- When you no longer can rely on one of your legs to stand on your own. This can include wounds, fractures, arthritis, Hip precautions from surgery, or other similar issues
- Fatigue or you get tired easily
Difference between a walker and a rollator?
Don’t get confused between a rollator and a walker they are very different and should be used for different situations that are dependent on your needs.
Wheels
A rollator has 4 or 3 wheels depending on the model. A walker may have two wheels on the backside of the legs. If you are using a walker without wheels you have to lift the walker and move forward and repeat the process. Rollators are used generally for those who have less arm strength because the wheels eliminate the need to lift to move forward.
Seat
Walkers typically don’t have seats and you will be hard-pressed to find one that does. This is because they need to be flipped up in order for the person to walk in-between the frame. A rollator on the other hand almost always has seats, unless you are looking at a 3-wheel model.
These seats added a few pluses. One, they give you a place to sit when you tired. Two, a lot of these seats double up as storage underneath them allowing you to have your own carrying pack that you can store stuff like water, phones, etc.
Types of Walkers
There are different types of walkers that you can get. And you should be aware of what they are before your next purchase. These are some of the most common.
Folding Walkers
These are just what the name states. These types of walkers can be folded easily to be taken with you. Most of the time to fold a walker it’s a push-button system. Typically two-buttons. The waker will collapse and then fold.
Hemi Walkers
These types of walkers are uses for people that have no or very little dexterity in one arm or hand. A Hemi walker allows for the person to lean on just one side of the walker for support.
These are smaller and lighter because they are about half the size of a walker.
Wakers that height-Adjust
These walkers have pins that can be pressed to easily adjust the seat height. These walkers can be adjusted much more than a typical walker. They can be used by a wide range of weights.
Rise-Assistance Walkers
These walkers are a little unique and have a front handle that s slopes low on the side the person is using the walker.
These walkers are great for sit to stand as the lower portion of the handle can be used as leverage to stand up.
The Top 5 Best Walkers Comparisons Chart
Blue Compact Folding paddle Walker | UpRise Onyx Folding Walker | Deluxe Bariatric Foldable Walker | ProBasics Two-Button Release Folding Walker | Side Hemi Walker Cane | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Weight Capacity | 350 lbs. | 400 lbs. | 500 lbs. | 300 lbs. | 300 lbs. |
Min Height Handle | 32.5" | 32" | 31", 33.5" | NA | 28.5" |
Max Height Handle | 39.5" | 36" | 41", 43.2" | NA | 35.5" |
Product Weight | 6.8 lbs. | 5.5 lbs. | 8.5 lbs. | 6.11 - 7.5 lbs | 3.5 lbs. |
Price |
This walker is our top choice for the best walkers for seniors. With this lightweight frame only weighing in at 6.8 pounds but still has the ability to hold up to 350 pounds this walker can be taken anywhere. The legs on this model also fold up making it super easy for transport.
This model comes with both 5″ wheels and extensions with a great-looking blue finish. This walker has dual crossbars and pushes or pull to release the folding mechanism.
Walker Specifications
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Weight Capacity: 350 lbs.
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Min. Handle Height: 32.5"
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Max. Handle Height: 39.5"
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Product Weight: 6.8 lbs
(4.9 / 5)PROS
- 350 pound weight capacity
- Comes with leg extensions and 5" wheels
- Excellent for transport
- Very lightweight
CONS
- No many complaints
For those with limited hand dexterity this upRise Walker works wonders. This is a combination folding walker and rising aid in one mobility aid. The secondary handles can help you get up from a seated position. Not only that but this works great as a portable toilet safety frame.
It can hold up to 400 pounds and the design meets the requirements of the HCPCS code: E0135.
The frame comes with a lifetime limited warranty and the adjustable height fits a large range of users. This is a great UpRise style walker for those looking for one.
Walker Specifications
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Weight Capacity: 350 lbs.
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Min. Handle Height: 32.5"
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Max. Handle Height: 39.5"
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Product Weight: 6.8 lbs
(4.7 / 5)PROS
- Uprise capabilities in a walker
- 400 pound weight limit
- Durable aluminum tubing
CONS
- Not many negatives
This deluxe bariatric foldable walker is ideal for those who need to support extra weight while using a walker. This model has a 500-pound weight capacity and an overall width of 26″ making walking with this aid easier for those who need a bariatric style walker.
What makes this walker nice is that it can still be folded down to 435″ that makes it easy to still transport on a car, ship, or any other way you travel.
Walker Specifications
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Weight Capacity: 500 lbs.
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Min. Handle Height: 31.5", 33.5"
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Max. Handle Height: 41", 43.2"
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Product Weight: 8.5 lbs
(4.6 / 5)PROS
- 500 pound weight capacity
- Texture handgrips
- Folds down to a slim 4.5"
- Sturdy 1" diameter aluminum tubing
CONS
- May not work well for very tall people
This is an excellent lightweight aluminum frame and adjustable height folding walker. You will love the two-button folding mechanism that makes folding this walker super easy. It can support up to 300 pounds and is available with our without 5″ wheels.
This walker uses contoured handgrips and folds up nice and flat for travel and transport. Those looking for a reliable, lightweight walker will find this product exactly what they need.
Walker Specifications
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Weight Capacity: 300 lbs.
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Min. Handle Height: 32.5"
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Max. Handle Height: 39.5"
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Product Weight: 6.11 - 7.5 lbs
(4.6 / 5)PROS
- 300 pound weight capacity
- Lightweight
- Folds easy
- Comfortable grips
CONS
- Not many draw backs
The Hemi walker is a very lightweight mobility aid that is lighter than a standard walker but has more s stability than a cane and only weighs a3.5 pounds.
This side Walker features adjustable heights that can from 29.5″ to 37″ and also can be folded simply with one hand.
If you or a loved one doesn’t need a full-blown walker but still needs more support then can this device be perfect for you.
Walker Specifications
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Weight Capacity: 300 lbs.
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Min. Handle Height: 29.5"
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Max. Handle Height: 37"
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Product Weight: 3.5 lbs.
(4.5 / 5)PROS
- Folds very easy
- 300 weight capacity
- More stable then a cane
CONS
- Not as good as a full blown walker for stability
Best Walkers Buying Guide For Seniors
There are a lot of walkers on the market but remember the best walkers will be the walker that suits your needs and helps you stay mobile. Getting mobile again can help you with exercising your body and mind. But you still should understand what the best features are in a walker that would make them worth purchasing. Here are some things to keep in mind when looking to purchase a walker for yourself or a family member.
Weight Capacity
Any mobility device that you sit on will have a weight limit. this is true for walkers as well. Most walkers have a weight limit of 300 lbs.
Make sure before purchasing a walker you check the weight capacity. If you are close to the weight capacity we suggest that you find a walker that supports a higher weight limit. There are some walkers that can handle up to 500 lbs.
Walker Weight
Some walkers are more portable than others. Compared to wheelchairs walkers are lighter and easier to move about in vehicles. If you need always transport your walker then look for a walker that is light and portable. A lot of walkers fold up tight allowing for easy transport. Be sure not to sacrifice weight and portability for strength. Be sure the weight limit still can support you.
Portability & Foldability
There probably will be times that you need to take your walker with you. If you know you will need a portable walking that can be folded for easier travel then there are great ones on the market that will accomplish just that.
Keep in mind that walkers typically are lightweight and most fold so traveling with them is easier than some other types of mobility devices like electric scooters or some types of wheelchairs.
Before you make a purchase of a walker take the time to see how it folds and the dimensions. If you have a larger vehicle you should be okay with almost any walker. If you don’t then you need to pay closer attention to the size and foldability of that walker.
Grips
one of the nice things about rollator style walkers is that almost all of the ones we reviewed above come with a seat cushion. This can be extremely useful when needing to take a break or when you out and there are no seats available. You will always have a place to rest and sit with a rollator walker.
Pricing
There are a lot of different price points when it comes to purchasing a walker and it’s worth considering the price of a walker. Walkers and rollators can range from $55.00 to over $150.00 You should be able to find a walker for your needs around the midway point of the low to a high end when it comes to a walker.
When you get around 150.00 for a walker they have a lot of features that will suit a lot of needs for the majority of people looking to purchase a walker. Speaking of purchasing Medicare Part B typically covers these types of devices because they are a medical necessity so check to see if you qualify.
Most Asked Questions On Walkers
How to Measure For a Walker?
A walker that fits you will be more comfortable and easier to walk with. There are a few measurements you should be familiar with. Look at our measurements below to understand how and what areas should be looked at it so you can have a walker that fits your needs and is comfortable to use.
It is also wise to ask your therapist or doctor what would be the most optimal height for a walker.
Are There Walkers Made For The Beach?
Yes, there are specific walkers that are designed to be brought on the beach. They have extra-large tires that will not sink on the sand.
There are a few things to remember about beach walkers. A lot of times they are custom orders and they are pretty expensive. A lot of these walkers can run north of 1 thousand or more and can take a few weeks to custom build the walker.
Our final thoughts on the best walkers for seniors
When choosing the best walkers make sure you are choosing the right walker for your condition. If you need help getting up but still need a walker for support then look at the upRise models.
For those that don’t need a full walker but need stability the Hemi walker might be your best choice. Walkers are a lightweight and easy way to gain back independence. We hope this guide has shed light on making your next choice on a walker.
So, what are the best walkers for seniors?
After researching all the walkers and rollators we narrowed down our top 5 walkers that we think would be of good value and offers important features that you would find useful on a walker.
Our top choice for the best walker is…
Blue Compact Folding Paddle Walker With Wheels
It provides lightweight and strength to a product that can help you get mobile both inside and out. We believe this walker will make a great addition to anyone needing help walking.
