Before you buy a walker, consider the points listed below:
- If you need a walker for outdoor use, you need to consider safe access in and out of your home and the terrain and gradients you will be on
- If your walker is for indoor use then you will need to consider door and corridor widths, door thresholds, rugs and carpets for safe access
- 3-wheeled walkers are also available but are not as stable as 4-wheeled models and most of them do not have a seat. The rear width of the 3-wheeled models is wider than most 4-wheeled models
- 4-wheeled walkers have brakes and a seat. Lightweight walkers may be convenient for transportation but heavier models are more stable
- Seats may be padded, firm or made of canvas. Seat height will vary depending on the size of the model, and should be considered when choosing the right size walker. For safety and comfort, the feet should be flat on the floor when sitting. Most seats have integrated or optional backrests
- Walkers fold; front to back or sideways for transportation and storage
- The wheels are usually at least 6″ diameter, adequate for smooth paths; larger wheels are preferable for uneven ground
- Bags and brackets maybe available to fit to the walker to carry sticks/drinks/shopping.
- The cable brakes on the walker are just designed to slow the pace down and to give some security when sitting down. Some have brakes for one-handed use. Slow down brakes may also be available which provide some additional resistance.
- Specialist four-wheeled walkers are also available with forearm supports.
- For stability, it is important to walk ‘within’ the wheel base and not push the walker too far ahead of you when walking
- When purchasing a walker, check if the supplier can repair and make sure you have user instructions for safe use and folding. Check maximum user weight on the walker
- Expect to pay £220 for sideways folding models, and from £120 for front to back folding walker
HOW TO MEASURE THE CORRECT HANDLE HEIGHT:
The person being measured should stand looking forward with relaxed shoulders and a slight bend in the elbow. As shown in the diagram, the distance between the floor and wrist crease should be measured giving an approximate measurement. Set the handle height of the walker to this measurement. If when walking with the walker, the person is bent over, or their shoulders are hunching, the handle height may need to be slightly adjusted up or down respectively.
