How to Choose a Walker

There are numerous reasons someone may need the assistance of a walker. If you’re recovering from an injury or surgery, the extra support of a walker or cane can give you added stability as you heal. Walkers and rollators can provide support just like a pair of crutches, but without the strain on your underarms. You can even find wheeled walkers with leg rests for casts and other lower limb injuries.

There are also great walkers for adults with diabetes. Certain diabetes complications can contribute to balance issues,¹ and having a rollator walker may help prevent a fall. Some rollators even come with attached compartments for storage, so you can bring along a travel glucose monitor, snacks, or a water bottle to ensure your blood sugar levels remain stable.

Walkers and rollators can also become extremely helpful tools for older adults. Aging can naturally cause you to lose some muscle mass, strength and function, making certain types of movement more challenging.See Disclosure ² If you want to practice active aging but are concerned about your stability, you can find rollator walkers with seats and handbrakes, so you can control how you travel. Medical alert devices can also be helpful tools to take with you on your walks — in case of emergencies.

Mobility aids come in a lot of styles and go by many names. So, what are the different kinds, and how do you use them? There are three main types of walkers: cane walkers, upright walkers and rollators. Depending on your condition and mobility limits, you may want to choose one type of walker over the other.

Cane walkers typically offer the least amount of support. With just one pole to lean on, canes are often best for individuals who need light assistance with balance or strength. You can find cane walkers with multiple feet attached to the bottom for added stability. And canes can be made from many materials, including metal, plastic and wood, so you can find the right style and weight for you.

Upright walkers offer a bit more stability. They use a series of poles to create a sturdy frame that you can move with you as you step forward. They often have rubber bottoms to ensure the walker stays secure while you move with it. Since these walkers don’t have wheels on the bottom, you will need to use your hands and arms to pick them up as you travel — but thankfully, there are plenty of lightweight options.

Rollators are essentially wheeled walkers. They provide the same amount of support but offer additional features for ease and control. If you’re wondering how to use a rollator walker, the process is simple. Rather than picking up your walker as you step, wheeled walkers glide forward with little effort. And for downhill walks and sudden stops, easy-to-use handbrakes ensure your wheeled walker doesn’t move on without you. If you purchase a foldable walker, be sure to read the instruction manual for your specific model to learn how to fold a rollator walker.

1. D'Silva, Linda J., James Lin, Hinrich Staecker, Susan L. Whitney and Patricia M. Kluding. “Impact of Diabetic Complications on Balance and Falls: Contribution of the Vestibular System.” Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Journal, American Physical Therapy Association. March 1, 2016. https://academic.oup.com/ptj/article/96/3/400/2889340.

2. Volpi, Elena, Reza Nazemi and Satoshi Fujita. “Muscle Tissue Changes with Aging.” Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition and Metabolic Care, LWW Journals. July 2004. https://journals.lww.com/co-clinicalnutrition/Abstract/2004/07000/Muscle_tissue_changes_with_aging.9.aspx.