Mobility

Which Assistive Device is Best for Me?

If you are of the aging population or have a condition that results in an unstable gait, chances are your doctor has prescribed the use of a walker or other assistive device. Walkers provide much more stability than canes. Furthermore, there are many different kinds of walkers on the market. There are several basic categories of walkers available, yet it can be difficult to choose the walker that best suits your needs. For this reason, Southeastern Medical Equipment has provided for you the following guide,”Which Assistive Device is Best for Me?”

Standard Walker

There are many cases when a standard walker will be a good choice for a patient. The most applicable use is when someone needs to bear a significant amount of weight on it. Standard walkers do not have wheels. Therefore, they are a good choice for older patients who cannot use a cane. These types of walkers must be picked up off of the ground with each step. For this reason, standard walkers are the most stable type of walker. 

In addition to providing utmost stability, the standard walker also provides other unique advantages. For one, standard walkers are easy to fold up and store. They don’t weigh very much and are easy to transport when they aren’t being used. Finally, they are cost effective and the least expensive of assistive devices (other than the standard cane). 

Rolling or Two-Wheeled Walker

Patients who do not need to bear a whole lot of weight on their assistive device will benefit from a two-wheeled or rolling walker. The types of walkers have two wheels on the front legs  and two sliders on the back legs. Rolling, two-wheeled walkers, unlike standard walkers, do not have to be picked up off of the ground with each step. Plus, the wheels roll in tandem with the rear sliders. In turn, this makes it easy to maneuver and operate. The most notable advantage of the roller walker is that it provides a more normal walking pattern. Plus, these types of assistive devices are also easy to fold up and transport. 

Rollator and Four-Wheeled Walker

The rollator (a.k.a four-wheeled walker) is designed for patients who need versatility and do not need to bear weight on their assistive device. These types of walkers are very easy to push and are not restrictive to any kind of gait pattern. The rollator does not have to be lifted while walking, and it is very easy to turn and maneuver. Some rollators come with a seat. Although rollators are not very easy to fold up and transport, most of them come with a basket and other special features that appeal to patients who live busy lifestyles. 

Other Recommendations

The sales and clinical support staff at Southeastern Medical Equipment recommends you consult your doctor to help narrow down which type of assistive device is best for your needs. However, you can narrow your choice down initially by determine how much weight you plan on putting on the assistive device. From there, your choice of standard walker, rolling or two-wheeled walker, or four-wheeled walker or rollator becomes that much easier. For questions about assistive devices, please contact us anytime by clicking here.