The most important criteria in selecting a walking aid is your current physical condition balanced with the amount of movement you intend to do. Walking aids come in a hierarchy of forms, from those offering the least support to those supplying complete support to the consumer. Consider your individual needs and desires when reviewing the various walking aid product types below.
The most basic level of walking aid is the cane, whether single-point or quad. The former provides some stability, while the latter offers a broader and sturdier base. Either type of cane can be helpful if you need a little help rising from a chair or appreciate short breaks while walking from point to point, without needing to find another object or person to lean on.
Crutches – whether standard or forearm – offer increased support for the consumer suffering from a broken limb or a chronic condition that inhibits movement.
Walkers and rollators take walking aids to the next level since they add a much broader base to the unit. Standard Folding Walkers offer a basic walker experience – easy to transport and to move around. Some even allow for the addition of wheels or brakes.
However, as a rule, if you prefer a wheeled model, a rollators might be a more appropriate selection. Coming in three- and four-wheeled styles, they include hand brakes, baskets and usually a seat for mid-walk resting as well. Knee walkers and other specialty models also fall in to this category.
Once again, whatever your choice, please research all available options and consider your specific mobility level and needs when purchasing any walking aid product.
