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Walking Aids for Elderly People

Walking Aids for Elderly People

There are many different styles of walking aids for elderly people on the market. Some of the most standard walking aids include walkers, rollators, canes, crutches, knee walkers, heavy duty walking aids, and pediatric walking aids.

Top 5 Walking Aids for Elderly People

Walkers – Walkers are approximately 21.5 inches wide, and between 32 and 40 inches tall depending on your standard adjustments. There are two handles, one on each side (left, and right) of the walker. Walkers come with fixed front wheels, and some have rear glide push down brakes. Walkers range in price anywhere from $50 - $700 depending on the quality, features, and delivery options.

Rollators – Rollators are similar to walkers in appearance, only the rollator has wheels on all legs. The rollator features a reinforced design that helps support more weight. Some rollators feature a padded seat, and backrest. Rollators range in price anywhere from $70 - $900 depending on quality, style preference, and delivery, or shipping options.

Canes – Canes are basically a fancy walking stick. Canes are generally used with one hand for walking assistance. Styles of canes vary from basic to higher quality featuring additional support systems, such as 4 feet as opposed to one. Canes range in price anywhere from $20 - $250.

Crutches – Crutches are placed under the arm, and extend on one leg to the floor for walking support. There are different styles of crutches. Some use a forearm grip style, and others use the under arm support. Crutches range in price anywhere from $25 - $200 depending on quality, and style.

Knee Walkers – A knee walker has four wheels, narrow, and has a knee-height seat. Knee walkers range in price anywhere from $150 - $400 depending on quality, and style.

Choosing the right Walking Aid

If you have mobility issues, a walking aid may benefit your lifestyle. Choosing the right walking aid can be difficult. Talk to your doctor, and let them know what type of mobility problems you are having. Be descriptive, and try to describe what pains you have in what locations with what types of movements.

Your doctor can recommend walking aids suitable for your condition. Pain associated with mobility is discouraging, and often causes withdrawal from normal daily activities. If you are experiencing pain with mobility, consider the following options:

  • Wear comfortable, supportive closed heel and toe tennis shoes. If your soles are worn, you may want to try adding Dr. Scholl's inserts. These shoe inserts are designed specifically for problems associated with knee, back, joint, arthritis, etc.
  • Selecting one, or more than one walking aid for assistance with your daily activities. Some people are more comfortable using a cane for certain activities, and a walker for other activities, for instance.