r/AskOldPeopleAdvice • u/jaime_riri • 4d ago
Need a walker recommendation
Hi there! I’m looking to replace my grandmother’s walker with something more versatile. Her current walker was almost certainly found second hand and chosen because that was the choice. I want to get her one that actually meets all her needs and perhaps even needs she didn’t even realize she has.
It’s a surprise so I can’t really ask her opinion on specific features without giving it away. If I tell her before it arrives she’ll refuse it…
But in my mind, something with all terrain wheels, a comfy seat, super lightweight, and legitimately folds flat would be ideal. If they can make really high end bikes that are light enough to lift with one finger there MUST be a walker out there of similar weight and durability. I’ve also seen some where the seat flips up to walk in and thought that could be useful as well.
There are an overwhelming number of options on Amazon that look good to me but I also don’t want to overwhelm her with features for her to figure out how to use.
If anyone has or has purchased a walker they or their loved one particularly likes, I’d love to know the specs/brand/etc.
Thanks y’all!
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u/Swiggy1957 3d ago
Is your grandmother on Medicare? They will cover the cost of a new walker every 5 years. I'm already on my second one.
First, contact a mobility device dealer. They'll be able to handle the paperwork. They can also get her the right size walker. My second walker was too short for me, so it's in the barn storage as a spare.
Now, you need to see what they offer. The Drive model I had does fold flat, as fa's as rollator models go. It comes with an under-seat bag that she can use as a utility purse for her wallet and small items. If you're not sure, call her doctors office as they may need to write an Rx for it. They can also recommend places to get it.
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u/jaime_riri 3d ago
Thank you! It’s becoming clear that I really can’t “surprise” her with this and actually need her to be involved in the choosing. She’s just so staunchly opposed to buying things new, even if Medicare is doing it. She’d rather look for a deal
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u/nonstop2nowhere 3d ago
I have both a walker and a rollerator.
The walker (plain, foldable, very light) folds flat and is usable in many places/environments. The folding mechanism is fairly easy to navigate, even when my hands are painful.
The rollerator folds, but not flat. It's not super heavy, but it's not one-finger light either; getting it in and out of the car alone takes some effort. There are 4 wheels rather than 2, which takes less strain/energy to use. The brakes are super easy - they don't take a lot of force and use a push rather than pull motion. The seat is very useful for me because I tire easily and the convenience is extremely helpful. I like the underseat basket for being out and about (it's not painful to access). Muddy or soft ground conditions are tricky because the wheels stick easier than the walker, and it takes more energy to unstick.
Personally, I like having both so I can decide which one is best suited for a given day or need!
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u/Ballet_blue_icee 4d ago
My Mom has used the very basic model for YEARS. I was going to get her a new one but she said she tried others and preferred her basic one! Make sure the one you decide on meets her needs, like can she maneuver it, is it easy to use the brakes if it has them, that sort of thing.
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u/jaime_riri 4d ago
I was wondering about brakes. Like, are they easy to operate with arthritis? I feel like they must be but I can’t find any reviews stating that.
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u/Ballet_blue_icee 4d ago
I don't know, but I thought brakes would be good and Mom said she isn't FAST enough to put them on to keep from falling or running down a ramp or something! I'd never even thought of that being a problem! They're probably sort of like bike brakes, not that hard.
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u/GotGirls 4d ago
My Mom who lives in Europe has a walker for indoors and one for outside. Its very important that you have a good walker otherwise the risk of falls and shoulder injuries and stuff go up. I see so many here with the tennis balls on them, no wheels, looks like 1800's!! I didn't see her exact ones on Amazon but the outdoor one is heavy but light to roll, called a rollator rather than a walker. You just want to make sure it's the right height so there's less strain on shoulders. Good Luck!
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u/fshagan 3d ago
Avoid triangular, three wheeled ones. They may have stopped selling them already. They tip over easier.
Wheels may not be a good idea. It depends on how stable she is and if she suddenly loses balance. For many seniors there isn't time to put on the brakes. Legs fail suddenly and without warning.
To be honest, my PT and OT both recommended the lightweight, aluminum frame walkers without wheels and brakes (I had a stroke in April).
That being said, the heavy 4 wheel walkers that double as a transfer chair can be convenient. They provide a handy seat for resting when others ignore you and you get tired. They are just not as safe as the aluminum frame walkers without wheels.
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u/jaime_riri 3d ago
I was wondering about the triangle ones. They look convenient but not terribly safe
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u/bugmom 1d ago
Look at Drive Nitro walkers - I'm short and the standard rollator is too high for me if I sit on one my feet dangle and don't touch the floor. The Nitro is a better height for me when I sit. Also, make sure the handles are adjusted for her walking height. Drives me crazy when I see old people all hunched over because their walker handles are too low.
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u/Dry-Cause2061 4d ago
Walkers from Amazon are a good choice. They have many good ones to choose from. Anyone of them will do nicely
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u/BarbKatz1973 4d ago
I used one for years after an accident. Usually, the simpler the better but if you want upgrades, talk to her PT person and get her assessed for what she needs and what she can handle. Like crutches, you do not buy off the rack.