In this article, I will talk about the best walker for balance problems and some other good options for you to consider. For a quick summary, you can see the table below.
Contents
There are many possible reasons why you may start to have balance problems in older age. For example:
- Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo: Research suggests that BPPV is the most common cause of balance problems in older adults.
- Labyrinthitis: This is a type of inner ear infection that is often associated with an imbalance in adults
- Ménière’s Disease: Another inner ear disease that is also associated with vertigo and lack of balance
- Chronic Diseases: Lack of eye function, dementia, and MS are also associated with an inability to balance oneself.
In all such cases, it is important for you to understand that imbalance should not be taken lightly. It can cause falls, injury, and even death.
Walkers can help you improve your balance and be more self-reliant while avoiding injury. But not all walkers are meant for this purpose. In this article, I will be looking at some walkers that have specific features that make them good for balance issues.
In this review, you will learn,
- What to look for while choosing a walker for balance problems.
- The best walker for balance problems, and four equally good choices.
- Answers to important FAQs
What To Look For In A Walker For Balance Problems
Hand Grip
The key to choose a balance walker is to opt for one which has handlebars that best fit your hands.
Avoid having a plastic handgrip as plastic does not offer comfort. Your hands can slip on a plastic handlebar, increasing the risk of falls.
Instead, always look for walkers that have rubber or foam outer coating on the handles, preferably with some form of roughness to increase traction while holding it. Another material that you can opt for is Polyurethane (PU).
Height Adjustability
Height adjustability is important. You can never be comfortable using a walker that is too high or too low.
If the walker is too high, you might find it difficult to use it, because your arms will start hurting over time. However, if the walker is too low, there is a very distinct possibility of you tipping over, especially given your lack of balance. Therefore try to find a walker that you can adjust to the perfect height that you need.
For an ideal height, your elbows should be bent at about fifteen degrees while holding the walker, and it should align with the crease of your wrist when you stand inside it.
Weight
The ideal weight for a walker for balance problems is between 25-35lbs, however, this also depends on your capacity to hold weight and how much strength you have in your arms.
To assess your hand strength, try to hold the walker in your hands and walk with it for a few minutes. If you start to feel your upper arm muscles getting strained, then the walker is likely too heavy for you. Typically aluminum walkers are lighter, but you should always check the weight yourself before buying.
Walker Tips
Most walkers come with rubber tips that can wear off pretty quickly. There are many other alternatives that you can use to replace them (they can be quite expensive). But you should always make sure that the tips provide enough traction, especially since you have balance problems.
#1 Medline Stand Assist Folding Walker
Features
- Hand Grip- 9/10
- Storage- 9.5/10
- Adjustability- 9/10
- Weight- 9/10
- Overall- 9/10
Technical Specifications
- Width inside grip- 17 Inches
- Weight Capacity- 300 lbs
- Height Adjustment- 32-38 Inches
- Walker Style- 2 Button
- Color- Silver
Bottom Line
A stand assist folding walker can give you an exceptional lift capacity.
The positive feature of a stand assist walker is that it can be used in almost all situations requiring assistance, like lifting heavy objects or using a crutch.
Pros
- It is a recovery aid that improves the quality of life for patients who have sustained an injury that prevents them from standing independently.
- It provides user-friendly and convenient support for the users’ daily activities.
- It reduces physical strain on the user as they can quickly walk around the area without stopping and waiting for assistance.
Cons
- Stand assist folders can be secured in position by various mechanisms, which can make getting in or out difficult if the manufacturer’s instructions are not followed carefully or if there are obstacles within the confines of the home.
Details
- Hand Grip– The stand assist folding walker by MEDLINE will give you an extra set of hands with amazing grip when you need them most. Since the stand assist features a sliding mechanism underneath the seat that allows the user to fold it behind them when not in use, it also allows users with limited leg strength or limited wrist movement to get around easily.
- Storage- Since the stand assist features a sliding mechanism underneath the seat, the user can fold it behind them when not in use. It is easy to store and allows users with limited leg strength or limited wrist movement to get around easily.
- Adjustability- If you are looking for a simple & effective way to help you get around, then this walker may be right for you. These fold-able walkers can assist with various activities that would otherwise be difficult or impossible for you to do on your own. Weight– These walkers are light weighted and can also be used in commercial settings to help customers with disabilities gain access to places where they might not otherwise be able to go.
You might also like to read: Shoes for the Elderly with Balance Problem
#2 Deluxe Drive Medical Walker
Features
- Hand Grip- 9/10
- Storage- 8/10
- Adjustability- 9/10
- Weight– 9.5/10
- Overall- 9/10
Technical Specifications
- Width inside grip- 17 Inches
- Weight Capacity- 350 lbs
- Height Adjustment- 29-33 Inches
- Color- Silver
Bottom Line
The Deluxe Walker excels in two major areas: ease of use and performance. When it comes to walkers and other assistive equipment, Drive Medical is a top brand and you will not be disappointed if you choose one of its products.
Pros
- The end product of many hours of research, design, and engineering, the Walker offers unmatched off-road performance and quality.
- It is combined with a 4×4 ground clearance system that allows the walker to pass through obstacles up to 3 inches in diameter.
Cons
- This walker is only for people who don’t need to lean on the walker for balance.
Details
- Hand Grip- It has premium quality components that the manufacturer carefully selects to enhance the performance and durability of this walker. They are made to enhance novice and experienced users’ confidence in navigating obstacles with perfect grip, whether on uneven ground or over rough pavement.
- Storage- You must store your Deluxe Walker where it belongs: in the garage, making sure it’s protected from moisture, dust, and babies. And most importantly, forget about moving it into the living room or kitchen—or any other places where it might get crowded and inconveniently situated.
- Adjustability- The Deluxe Walker scales any incline up to down no matter how steep the incline. The removable tri-top overlay offers great versatility in shape and style. The cleats utilize dual buckle closures for maximum security while still being easy to adjust for fit.
- Weight- The 8 oz polypropylene handle is lightweight and easy-to-handle, with an adjustable stainless-steel holder to ensure that it’s always in place. It has all the functionality of a regular walker in a lightweight design.
#3 OasisSpace Heavy Duty Walker
Features
- Hand Grip- 9/10
- Storage- 8/10
- Adjustability- 9.5/10
- Weight– 8/10
- Overall- 8.5/10
Technical Specifications
- Width inside grip- 18 Inches
- Weight Capacity- 450 lbs
- Height Adjustment- 31-41 Inches
- Color- Red
Bottom Line
OasisSpace Walker is an innovative walker dedicated to bringing the best backcountry experiences to discerning outdoor lovers. It is a high-quality product that exceeds the wildest expectations.
Pros
- Trail quality is superb.
- Comes with a lifetime warranty.
- Not a deal-breaker as it can be lengthened or shortened easily to your own preference.
- Comes with a carrying bag.
Cons
- The leg length is a tad bit long for a simple stroll.
Details
- Hand Grip- These walkers’ handgrips help promote comfort and safety for seniors when using their walkers. When you are moving around, they make sure that your hand does not slide and reduces shock to your arms, hands, and upper body.
- Storage- It has folding strips, which makes it easy to store. Steps to store the walker include making sure it is folded all the way by pushing the legs together, so they lock! To close, there is a red knob on the right side, above the storage bag. As you pull the knob out, you push the wheels away from you.
- Adjustability- OasisSpace Walker’s adjustability is an in-depth look at the technology, design, and manufacturing behind one of the most versatile walkers available today. It uses a versatile combination of premium chrome-molybdenum steel stages, rectangular footers, and benchtop surround to adjust from a narrow midsection to a wide, broad stance.
- Weight- The weight may vary slightly between models as the manufacturing process may vary slightly between years. Before beginning your ride, always check for the exact weight specifications. This walker is slightly heavy as compared to other walkers.
You might also like to read: Best Balance Board For Seniors
#4 Circle Specialty Klip Gait Walker
Features
- Hand Grip- 8.5/10
- Storage- 9/10
- Adjustability- 9/10
- Weight– 9/10
- Overall- 9/10
Technical Specifications
- Width inside grip- 12 Inches
- Weight Capacity- 200 lbs
- Color- Red
Bottom Line
Klip is a unique walker that improves knee comfort and movement. Featuring a unique design, Circle Specialty Klip Gait Walker provides superior fit and comfort.
Pros
- Has an innovative dual system design.
- Prevents the person from falling or getting hit by an object.
Cons
- It is non-invasive; it can be easy to get used to using a walker.
Details
- Hand Grip- This walker’s grip facilitates easy movement without putting excessive stress on the wrist or elbow. The pads are designed for maximum comfort with minimal snagging and tearing.
- Storage- This model also has storage space, which may be an attractive feature for seniors who might want to take their belongings with them when their own care duties require it and are easy to store.
- Adjustability- These walkers can be adjusted accordingly to allow access to limited or difficult-to-reach areas. The ability to quickly adjust the chair’s height and the angle of the backrest has made this product popular.
- Weight- The weight of this walker is ideal for adults and teens and is easy to handle and even to carry.
You might also like to read: Best Cane for Balance Problems
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Are walkers for seniors available online?
Ans. Yes, they are, in varying degrees and sizes. Most companies will offer a basic set of walkers as part of their standard equipment. But some specialize in specific styles or make models specifically intended for specific activities.
You are probably familiar with the phrase ‘senior citizens need transportation.’ But did you know that some carriers are only for seniors? Some of these carriers are available online. You can even rent walkers online in a wide range of locations.
Q2. What types of walkers can I choose from?
Ans. Two-wheel walkers, four-wheel walkers, standard walkers, knee walkers are some of the types of walkers. Another walker that is increasingly becoming more popular is the upright walker, which allows you to keep your posture straight while walking.
You might also like to read: Best Bikes For Balance Problems
Conclusion: Life is better with a Walker
Nearly 40% of older adults have balance problems. We hope this article will help some of you to find an ideal walker for you.
Although you can count on all the walkers as mentioned above, still, if you or a loved one is suffering from dizziness, low energy, chronic pain, and difficulty walking, then the OasisSpace Heavy Duty Walker may be perfect for you. The orthotic construction can help reduce over-pronation of the foot.
However, if you’re having balance issues and have been to all the doctors and physical therapists but haven’t gotten the relief, you may need a Stand Assist Folding Walker.