Walkers As A Balance Aid
Filed under Disability, Handicap Equipment
Those who suffer from various physiological or neurological problems that come with balance issues often can benefit from using a walker. Walkers for balance aid everyone from those recovering from joint surgery to those who have a chronic debilitating neurological disorder that affects balance.
Standard Handicap Walkers
A standard walker is a freestanding mobility aid that offers a support structure to lean on that easily moves forward as the person ambulates. Walkers are made of sturdy tubing and have four legs held together in a frame. Cushioned grips are in place for the hands. Walkers are height adjustable. Some have wheels attached to the ends of front legs. Some models have small skids on the back legs made of a durable polymer that easily glide over thresholds in doorways and areas where floor surfaces change.
Bariatric Walkers
Bariatric walkers are made sturdier than standard walkers, making them capable of supporting people who are much heavier. Some support bariatric patients that weigh up to 1000 pounds. Standard walkers are usually made of an aluminum tubing only rated to support users of normal weight.
Rolling Walkers
Walkers for balance aid people in being mobile in their environments. Mobility encourages self-sufficiency. Some with handicaps need just a small assist with balance as well as having instant access to a place to sit and rest. Rolling walkers come in models made for both normal weight and bariatric patients. They have four wheels with a hand brake as well as an integrated seat. There are rolling walker models that support people that weigh up to 500 pounds.
Walker Accessories
Walkers come with many accessories that can be easily added on for your extra convenience. The standard hospital walker has four legs with rubber tips. A person lifts the lightweight walker, moves it forward a bit and uses it to take a step forward. Rolling walkers have four wheels to move with each step. Hand brakes stop the forward motion when the walker is used for support during a step forward. Front wheel models that have rear skids are used by people who need a standard walker but cannot lift and step. The walker slides with each step. Baskets are another accessory that rounds out a walker’s usefulness in transporting small items. An integrated seat is only available on specialty walkers such as roller models.
Walker Costs and Maintenance
A standard walker or bariatric model can be found new for under $100.00. Roller models can go as high as $500.00 or more. Accessories add to the cost. Maintenance costs involve regular replacement of leg tips, wheels and skids. Skids can wear out fast when walkers are used on concrete and pavement since they are designed to slide over surfaces.
Walkers for balance aid in recovery, rehabilitation and encouraging mobility in all who have a difficult time with maintaining balance. Whether a walker is used for a short term to recover from an acute condition such as surgery or for use by those who need a lifelong assistance with balance, there is a walker model for every need.
Tags: Heavy Duty Bariatric Walkers, Senior Walkers
Bariatric Walkers for Larger People
Filed under Handicap Equipment
Bariatric walkers are specially designed with the obese population in mind. They are constructed to support a person’s weight of up to 400, 500 or even 700 pounds.
In comparison to a standard walker, these heavy duty walkers have a stronger frame, wider design and other features that allow obese or morbidly obese people to become mobile. The frames are made of durable, light-weight aluminum or steel so that they can be carried easily.
Heavy Duty Bariatric Walkers
Bariatric rollators, or rolling transport walkers, are similar to standard walkers, but they are more advanced and allow for a more natural walking gait. They usually feature a seat that is equipped with comfortable padding so that consumers always have a readily-available place to sit. Most models also feature a padded, curved backrest. Rollators have large wheels that provide extra stability, and a wire basket that keeps personal items within reach. These bariatric rolling walkers have a price range of $69 up to $250.
Bariatric Walker Accessories
There are several walker accessories that boost the functionality of bariatric and handicap walkers.
- For those who require the use of oxygen, an oxygen tank holder is available to securely hold the tank in place.
- A speed tab can be added to provide resistance on the walker’s wheels. This will ensure that the walker does not move too fast for the user and provide the most amount of safety for its user. You can chose to have four wheeled bariatric walkers with wheels or opt for a lift instead of a push walker.
- Adjustable forearm platforms can be attached to provide a comfortable armrest. These armrests can be adjusted to a desired height and amount of rotation. Accessories can range in price from $32 up to $300.
Buy Best Recommended Bariatric Walkers
Large Bariatric Walkers – Wide spaced bariatric walker for large individuals. Be sure to measure your doorways if you intend on using it indoors. Supports up to 400lbs.- Lightweight Extra Wide Bariatric Rollers – Fold ups for storage and travel.
- Bariatric Rolling Walkers – Supports up to 600lbs but can fit through most standard doorways and entrances. This is a heavy duty extra wide seated walker with 24 inches of sitting seat area. Includes a basket and has a wide range of optional walker accessories.
- Heavy Duty Bariatric Walkers – 22 inches of seating and supports up to 375lbs. Made of titanium, lightweight and includes 8 inch wheels.
- Red Large Four Wheeled Walkers – Has 8 inches wheels that will roll over most surfaces. Pretty much the same thing as the bariatric walker above except it comes in red.
These devices are especially useful in the home. They are wide enough to support a larger frame, but narrow enough to fit through doorways and hallways. Many models also fold up easily for convenient storage and transportation. In addition, most models require little maintenance if any. They are the ideal solution for people who live alone but need help with walking. Walkers are a fundamental part of a person’s rehabilitation and independence.