Walking Aids

What Are Walking Aids?

Walking aids are essential mobility devices for people who experience difficulty with walking or standing. They can provide stability and support while walking, allowing individuals to maintain their independence and perform daily activities. In this article, we will discuss the different types of walking aids and considerations when buying one.

Who Are Our Walking Aids For?

People may need walking aids for several different reasons, these could be age-related issues, injuries, or certain medical conditions such as arthiritis. Walking aids are often used for balance too, canes and walking sticks can provide stability and confidence while walking. Individuals with mild mobility challenges may find rollators to be helpful, offering a secure base and a place to rest when needed. For more significant disabilities, wheelchairs, both self-propelled and transit, provide the freedom to move independently and participate in daily activities.

As well as helping people walk easier, modern walking aids can alleviate pressure on joints and muscles, reduce the risk of falls, and promote better posture. Ultimately enhancing the overall quality of life for those with mobility conditions.

Different Types Of Walking Aids

Canes

Canes are a common type of walking aid that provide support and balance while walking. They are available in different styles, such as standard, quad, and offset canes. Canes are ideal for individuals who need minimal support while walking and have good upper body strength.

Walkers

Walkers are a type of walking aid that provides stability and support for individuals who need more support than a cane can provide. They are available in different styles, such as standard walking frames, rollators, and knee walkers. Walkers are ideal for individuals who need more support while walking or standing. Walkers such as rollators are amongst the most modern walking aids, they are often lightweight and extremely mobile.

Crutches

Crutches are a type of walking aid that provides support and balance while walking. They are available in different styles, such as underarm, forearm, and platform crutches. Crutches are ideal for individuals who have good upper body strength and need more support than a cane can provide.

Most Popular Disability Walking Aids

Walking aids are amongst the most popular products that we sell. Below are some of our best sellers:

Drive R8 4 Wheel Rollator

NRS Healthcare Walking Stick

Drive Devilbiss Healthcare Adjustable Folding Walking Stick

Drive Devilbiss Aluminium Tri Walker

What To Consider When Buying a Walking Aid

User's Needs

When buying a walking aid, it's important to consider the user's needs. Factors such as the user's weight, height, and level of mobility should be taken into account. Some walking aids are designed for specific needs, such as those with adjustable height or width. Others may need their walking aid to move more freely, for these people a walking aid with wheels may be best.

Comfort and Support

Comfort and support are important considerations when buying a walking aid. The walking aid should be comfortable and provide adequate support for the user's back, hips, and legs. The walking aid's grips and handles should also be comfortable and easy to grip.

Folding For Transport And Storage

Folding walking aids tend to be amongst the most popular walking aids on the market. This is because portability and storage are important factors to consider if the walking aid will be transported frequently. Some walking aids are lightweight and easy to fold, making them ideal for travel or storage. Others may be more difficult to transport due to their size or weight.

Terrain

The terrain on which the walking aid will be used is also an important consideration. Some walking aids are designed for indoor use and may not be suitable for outdoor terrain. Other walking aids may be designed specifically for outdoor use and have features such as larger wheels and better suspension.

Price

Walking aids can vary in price, depending on their features and level of customization. It's important to set a budget and look for a walking aid that meets the user's needs while staying within the budget.

Which Are The Best Walking Aids For Balance

Generally speaking, those with balance issues need an aid that will offer both stability and confidence. The best walking aids for balance include canes and walking sticks. Whilst these still offer users excellent mobility, they can offer confidence to the user that if they do lose balance, they have a way of supporting themselves.

Should I Buy A Traditional or Modern Walking Aid?

Like most things in life, there are traditional and more modern options. Traditional disability walking aids are things like walking sticks, canes and crutches. Modern walking aids include extendable canes and rollators. The modern rollators and walking frames are designed using the latest technology, often making them lightweight, easy to use, easy to transport and allowing an excellent range of motion.

Should I Buy A Walking Aid With Wheels?

If you find yourself facing challenges with mobility and considering the purchase of a walking aid, opting for walking aids with wheels can be a wise decision. These modern mobility aids offer enhanced stability and ease of movement, making them an excellent choice for individuals seeking to regain their independence. Walking aids with wheels, such as rollators and wheeled walkers, provide crucial support for those with limited mobility, allowing them to move freely and confidently. Whether you need assistance indoors or outdoors, these walking aids with wheels are designed to traverse various terrains with convenience. They can provide you with far more confidence than a cane or traditional walking frame.

The Best Way To Buy Walking Aids

When purchasing walking aids, finding the right fit and functionality is crucial for enhanced mobility and comfort. Assessing individual needs, such as support level required and mobility limitations, is key.

Researching online provides a vast array of options, allowing you to compare features, prices, and customer reviews, aiding in informed decision-making. Online platforms often offer the best deals and a wide selection of walking aids, ensuring accessibility and convenience in finding the ideal solution. For those seeking to buy walking aids, exploring reputable online stores can yield affordable options without compromising quality or functionality.

I Don't Know Which Walking Aid To Buy?

If you have read all of the above and you're still uncertain as to which walking aid may be best for you, we'd be more than happy to help. Simply send us an email or give us a call.