People experiencing problems with their mobility need a safe and cost-effective solution to maintain a healthy and satisfying lifestyle. A great mobility solution is a walker and there are many walkers available today that provide users with these incredible benefits at a reasonable cost.
Walkers allow you to fulfil daily tasks and participate in activities that would otherwise be unattainable, rather than be confined to your bed or chair. A walker can do wonders for your agility and independence. Thanks to this mobility device you can walk freely to your kitchen, make your breakfast, and enjoy it by your favourite window.
What Is a Walker?
Walkers are usually associated with people who have disabilities as well as the elderly. However, there are many situations in which an individual may benefit from the use of a walker. If you are suffering from decreased weight-bearing capacity, fatigue, injury, or poor balance, a walker can make your life a lot more comfortable.
With its walking frames or wheels, a person can have additional support as they move. A walker is different from a wheelchair despite serving a very similar purpose. Just like other medical equipment, people need to regularly check their walker for wear or damage. This way, the user is sure that it won’t crack or break under stress.
It is vital to purchase a walker that fits your arms comfortably so it won’t cause pressure or strain on your shoulders. Ensuring that your walker is also the right height is a must for your comfort when using your walker.
Benefits You Gain from Using a Walker
Here’s a look at some of the advantages you gain by using a walker in your daily life.
Support
A walker is something you can rely on for support as you take your morning stroll or move around your home. With a walker, you can have the peace of mind that your risk of falling is significantly lowered. Most people with a walker use it as a precaution for unexpected mobility issues. Considering this, a walker is a great investment to make if need support when getting around.
With a walker, you bear less weight and stress on your body. Through this, you will gain more stamina and energy to power through your day.
Independence
A walker will enable you to stand in an upright position for a long period. Because you can move freely, you can participate in just about any activity. Although it may be difficult to adjust to life as you start using your walker, you will have the confidence to do activities without the help of a friend or family when you become accustomed to the device. Generally, getting used to your walker does not require a long transition period.
By being more independent, you can adjust your schedule according to what you want, without relying on people to help you.
Increased physical activity
Often those with disabilities or the elderly can find it difficult to reach moderate levels of activity. However, this is crucial because engaging in low-intensity physical activity provides many important health benefits.
When you have a walker, you can improve your circulation and respiration. This happens because being in an elevated position extends your body and lets you expand your lungs. Because of gravity, a walker also does wonders for your gastrointestinal function, especially because your torso and pelvis will be stretched.
When you stretch your muscles and joints, you can increase your muscle tone, and decrease muscle imbalances and weakness. A walker will also improve the range of motion for your lower body. This piece of medical equipment is also beneficial if you want to improve bone density since it facilitates better movement for your muscular system.
Social interaction
When you stand and walk on your own, you will grant yourself the opportunity to interact more with others. You can communicate and participate in activities that you are passionate about.
When you stand upright, you will be able to look at your loved ones at eye level. This helps achieve an enhanced sense of control and connection. You will also gain a better sense of wellbeing through social interactions. In time, you will notice that your self-image and self-esteem will increase.
What to Consider When Getting a Walker
Walkers are available in a wide array of styles and sizes. Independent Living Specialists (ILS) offer an incredible selection of walkers all carefully designed to improve your everyday mobility. The wide selection of walkers available at ILS makes it possible to find the perfect walker for your needs.
With ILS, you can be sure that you are getting a premium product designed with comfort and efficiency in mind. We provide customised advice to our clients and offer ongoing customer service to ensure you have the best experience possible. Choosing a walker depends on a few personal preferences and individual needs. Here are important factors you need to keep in mind when you are choosing your walker.
Usage
Before you get a walker, assess when, where, and how you will use it. Only then can you find the perfect walker suited to your needs. For example, if you regularly walk on uneven surfaces, a walker with wheels may suit best. For people lacking upper body strength, it is best to avoid a walker without wheels, since lifting the walker can put stress on the body.
Keep in mind that even if you purchase a walker with wheels, you still need to be control of its pace and direction.
Portability
When selecting a walker, consider how easy it is to pack it up. You will save time if you can easily fold it and slide it into your closet or car. Ease of use can also be affected by additional accessories for your walkers, such as bags, grip covers, and trays.
Fit
When it comes to purchasing a walker, having a perfect fit is crucial. Fortunately, most walkers at ILS feature height adjustability, which can help if you enjoy wearing different shoes or walking on various surfaces. This adaptability is something you will be very thankful for when you need it.
Types of Walkers
In this section, you will discover the two major types of walkers on the market today. We will first consider standard walkers and then examine wheeled walkers. We have included some of the best models available at ILS for each type.
Standard walkers
Offering you the greatest stability, a standard walker contains four legs which can be adjusted to your desired height. Because of its stable stationary base, the stability it provides is unparalleled. With this type of walker, you need to lift it every step you take which can be strenuous on your muscles and more time-consuming. With this said, this option is best for people who are at risk of falling due to an inability to put weight on their leg, and those who have good upper body strength.
Standard Walkers Available at ILS
ILS carries a comprehensive selection of standard walkers. Each model provides specialised care and comfort to meet your needs. Here are some of the best standard walkers at ILS.
Invacare Mobility Folding Walker
As one of the most simple walkers you can get, the Invacare Mobility Folding Walker boasts a lightweight and durable aluminium frame, and a wide range of height adjustments.
Its silencer feature stands out since it allows quiet and comfortable operation. This walker also has Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) grips designed to last for a long time. For additional security, it has a single push button which is both visually and audibly pleasing.
Days Folding Walking Frame
With its lightweight aluminium frame, this walker is one of the best purchases you can make. The Days Folding Walking Frame is an excellent value option that is designed to be stored and carried easily. All you need to do is pull the ball located at the front of the frame. This walker will never rust and contains anti-slip rubber tips on its legs to grant you better stability and grip.
Wheeled Walkers
Wheeled walkers are best used on uneven surfaces. It can either be a front-wheeled walker or a rollator walker. Front-wheeled walkers are designed to be pushed rather than lifted. On the other hand, rollators, or rolling walkers, have three or four wheels with hand-operated breaks. All its legs contain wheels with a swivel to make moving and turning easier.
Wheeled Walkers at ILS
You can find a wheeled walker tailored to your individual needs. All models come with the exceptional customer service you have grown to expect from Independent Living Specialists.
Days Forearm Walker
If you’re looking for a basic wheeled walker that is effortless to manoeuvre and carry around, the Days Forearm Walker is something you should consider. Thanks to its big wheels and thick tubing, it will help you stay in an upright position for a longer period.
This model also folds easily to make storing a breeze. With adjustable hand and forearm support, this versatile walker is an excellent value walker.
Drive Medical Carbon Fibre Nitro Elite Super Light Weight Seat Walker
Exclusive to ILS, the Drive Medical Nitro Elite CF is unique in its design and structure, featuring a super lightweight luxurious carbon fiber frame, weighing only 5kg. Ease of mobility is guaranteed with this walker, alongside effortless stability as a product of the walker’s large 10″ front wheels and high-quality braking system.
Folding easily to ultra-compact size and sold with a deluxe zippered bag, the Nitro Elite CF is a convenient on-the-go mobility option. In addition, this walker is also equipped with an EZ clip cane holder to allow you to account for the walking cane whilst using the walker.
Hero Medical Tutor Plus Forearm Walker
The Hero Medical Tutor Plus Forearm Walker has a straightforward design you will appreciate. With four wheels that can be interchanged with rear leg skis, this walker can accommodate a great range of needs.
This model can handle up to 200 kilograms in weight. This quality shows the durability and sturdiness of its frame. The Hero Medical Tutor Plus Forearm Walker also features durable arm pads with moulded compound to make infection control and cleaning easier. Its arm pads are permanently attached to the framework to ensure that it won’t move, unlike pads using Velcro or glue.
Royale Seat Walker
If you’re looking for a walker with an innovative design, the Royale Seat Walker is worth checking out. This sleek walker will give you more freedom and comfort with its fold rounded backrest. It also boasts a thick flat wheel to minimise wobbling. This feature also lets you experience an improved grip.
The Royale Seat Walker can be used both outdoors and indoors. Thanks to its unique construction, you can enjoy maximum walking space. This model also comes with ample storage space.
With a light touch lock brake system, you’re able to secure it in place easily. It has a 200-kilogram weight limit.
Hero Medical Quad Seat Walker
Made using the most durable materials, the Hero Medical Quad Seat Walker has a 130-kilogram capacity. This classy-looking walker also has additional safety features which include the light touch lock braze system and 20-centimeter flat ridged wheel.
It has a rounded backrest to give you more comfort whether you’re at a park or walking around your home. This seat walker can be folded easily and comes with a nylon storage bag.
Hero Medical Knee Walker
One of the best knee walkers on the market, this model weighs only 9.1 kilograms and can easily be folded when you want to store it. The Hero Medical Knee Walker has a strong steel frame and can accommodate up to 136 kilograms. It also has an 8-inch wheel and a polyurethane knee pad. This walker also features a handlebar brake which allows full control.
Days Seat Walker
If you want a multipurpose walker, look no further. The Days Seat Walker functions as a walker and transit chair. You can operate this four-wheeled walker, and simply flip down the footrest to convert it into a transit chair. This walker is a versatile choice that gives you the ease of use and comfort.
Able Life Space Saver Rollator
With three colour choices, you will absolutely love the look of this Able Life Space Saver Rollator. This walker will allow you to move independently and stand out while doing so. It can fold up as small as 13 inches in diameter if you want to store it. This small size makes it the perfect company for walks in the park, grocery shopping, and doing chores in your home.
Find Your New Walker at ILS
The sense of security a walker provides is priceless and the independence you can gain from using a walker is life-changing. No matter which model you choose, you are sure to experience a more fulfilling life and enjoy tackling everyday tasks without help from others.
Find your ideal walker today from our user-friendly online shop or if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us today to talk with one of our experts.
