I (still) Get Around: How to Choose a Walker

Think walkers aren’t cool? Think again. If you limp because your leg is weak or injured, are wobbly on your feet, or are so scared of falling that you seldom get out of your chair — well, how cool is that? Not very, right? Much better to stand up, go where you want to go, and look the world straight in the eye.

Think of a walker as accessorizing with benefits.

Walkers, also known as mobility aids, can be good for the soul as well as your hardworking joints. But there sure are a lot of them. If you’re in the market for a walker, you probably already know there’s a dizzying array of types to choose from. Wheeled, non-wheeled, folding, sit-down, upright — who knew? Getting a walker’s a big step, no pun intended. How do you know which one is right for you?

Fortunately, finding the perfect fit becomes much easier once you learn a few basics.

For all the variations out there, walkers fall into just three categories: 

Standard walkers. Standard walkers, also known as pickup walkers, are the most common type. They have four legs that are rubber-tipped to prevent skidding. If you’d like easy storage and portability, consider a folding standard walker. You have to lift a standard walker as you walk, so they do require more energy than other types. If that sounds tiring, you may want to consider other options.

Standard Walker:Folding Standard Walker:

Wheeled walkers. Wheeled walkers are essentially standard walkers with two wheels in front that make them easier to move. They’re a good option if constantly lifting a walker would be hard. Good to know: Most wheels on wheeled walkers only roll forward and backward, so moving side to side or turning around would still require lifting.

Wheeled Walker:

Rollators. Rollators are a different kind of wheeled mobility aid. There are three-wheeled rollators and four-wheeled rollators. Most models have seats. Some models can roll in all directions, making it easier to turn or move side to side. Rollators are a good option if you tire easily, find standing difficult, or experience balance issues.

Three-Wheeled Rollator:
Four-Wheeled Rollator with Seat:

Four Wheeled Rollator without Seat:

How do walkers and rollators differ? Walkers are designed for short-term use, like recovering from surgery. They’re also best for short distances, such as moving around your home. Rollators are designed for longer-term use and longer distances. Their tires tend to be larger than those on wheeled walkers, making them more suitable for going outdoors or over rough terrain, like a sandy beach. 

Another difference is aesthetics. Some folks opt for rollators over standard walkers because walkers can seem “old” and old-fashioned. But there’s nothing stodgy about stability, and walkers offer great stability. The more surefooted you are, the more confident you’ll feel. That’s not being old. That’s just being smart. 

Here’s the number one rule when choosing a walker: Go by need versus want. 

The two most important factors to consider with a walker are your balance and your walking speed. Right now, tall upright rollators are popular, but with those models your balance has to be really good. That’s because your center of gravity is higher. You’re standing up straight instead of leaning over a walker, where your center of gravity is over the walker. If you have balance issues, you could fall backward, exactly what you don’t want to do. 

Another word about rollators. They’re great for a go-anywhere lifestyle, but some of the sexier models are very fast. That could be problematic if your walking speed can’t keep up. The rollator could get away from you. Fortunately, rollators usually have brakes on the handles to help you stay safe.

With those caveats in mind, here are some general guidelines for matching your needs with types. In general, walkers provide greater stability and are better for bearing weight. Rollators provide more balance support and are better if you’re unsteady on your feet.

About sizes. Walkers and rollators come in a wide range of sizes and all are adjustable to your height. If you weigh more than 250 pounds, bariatric walkers are extra wide and rated to support up 450-500 pounds. If you’re petite and even the smallest size adult walker is too big, a pediatric model may work just fine. 

Weighing the pros and cons of each option is time well spent. But that can be hard to do in the moment, like if your mother suffers a fall and winds in the hospital. You think, “I need a walker for when she gets home” and you hop online right away. But if you buy on impulse, you can end up with something that’s not ideal for your mom’s needs.

If you’re still unsure or want to skip the searching altogether, ask your doctor, physical or occupational therapist, or someone else on your care team for guidance. A visiting nurse group can also make a recommendation based on a home safety assessment. 

The most important step when beginning your search for a walker? Pause. Take a deep breath. Figure out what you really need first. Do that, and you’ll be well on your way.