1.  Choose the right walker with a PT

  • We are trained to evaluate your walker needs
  • We can tell you which type of walker and other mobility aids are your SAFEST options

2.  Choose the best handles

  • Some handles are foam and soft to hold 
  • Some are hard and may hurt your hands

3.  Make sure you can put on brakes

  • Some brakes are stiff and hard to push down
  • Have the owner of the walker try them out

4.  Choose the right # of wheels

  • 2 wheeled walkers are for less steady clients
  • 4 wheeled walkers are for steadier clients
  • Small wheels are for indoors, large for outside

5.  Wheel base – distance of wheels

  • Check to see if wheels are far apart enough

6.  Choose the right seat & back rest

  • You need a wide seat that feels really comfortable when you sit down
  • The back rest needs to be firm but not painful. Cloth back rests feel better but offer less support than a metal bar
  • Sit on walker for 5 mins to see how it feels
  • A low walker seat is hard to get up from

7.  Choose the right seat height

  • You need to be able to stand up from sitting
  • Some walker seat heights are adjustable

8.  Weight & width of walker important

  • Some walkers are very light and narrow
  • Others are heavy and hard to lift into a car

9.  How easy does the walker fold up

  • Be sure to see if you can fold up the walker
  • Practice folding the walker before buying
  • See how heavy it is first

10.  Ask about the store’s warranty

  • Keep your receipt taped to the walker

 

Need Assistance Choosing the right walker for your Mom or Dad?

Contact us today for a free PT consultation over the phone.