Elderly adults usually experience physical changes that hinder their ability to ambulate (walk and move from one place to another). An effective way to keep your loved one active, independent, and most important of all, safe, would be to rely on walkers. Walkers are a type of mobility tool that helps the elderly to retain mobility, boosting their confidence and allowing them to cope with their physical changes. Hence, the best walkers for your elderly loved one would be the one that fits them most, providing them with the most confidence in walking.
What Is a Walker?
Walkers are assistive devices that physically support individuals that face difficulties in maintaining balance and stability. They come in handy, especially for those recovering from orthopedic surgery, which leads to more burden on their legs. They’re popular among the various mobility aid choices, with 11.6% of adults aged 65 and above using them. Walkers typically comprise a walking frame that provides a wide area of points for a user to hold onto with both hands. Aside from the base walking frame, various implementations distinguish one type of walker from the others. Whichever one you should suggest for your loved one depends on their mobility aid requirements.
Standard Walker
A standard walker comes with just the basics. The standard walker features a simple frame that comes with rubber tips at its front feet. This design makes it suitable for users that are looking for a lot of stability in their mobility aids, as it’s stable enough for users to lean onto the frame to support their weight and remove the burden from their legs when walking or standing idly.
Standard walker users utilize it by grabbing and lifting the walker off the ground, setting it down ahead of themselves, and taking steps towards the walker. The lightweight design of the standard walker helps them to repeat this process even on stairs.
Front-Wheeled Walker
Front-wheeled walkers are similar to standard walkers in construction. However, the key difference between these two types is the non-swiveling wheels at the foot of the front legs. Thus, they differ in the method of use as well. While standard walkers are lifted, front-wheeled walkers typically involve more pushing instead. Front-wheeled walkers’ main perk is that they take less of a toll on your loved one’s upper body, compared to the standard walker that requires repeated lifting of the walker.
Rollator Walker
Rollator walkers are mostly designed for individuals that only require light support. Hence, most rollator walker users have comparatively better balance and stability. They come with added convenience items such as storage baskets or pouches and padded seats for rest breaks. They’re versatile enough for outdoor and indoor use, making them suitable for your elderly loved one that enjoys being out and about.
Enable Your Loved One’s Lifestyle With Discovery Village At Boynton Beach
Your loved one’s need for a mobility aid can be a sign of them requiring additional support in their daily life. If you’re looking for a retirement living option that can provide them with daily assistance, Discovery Village At Boynton Beach’s senior living options may interest you.
