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25 Mar 2024
Victor Hu
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Both walkers and walking frames help patients move independently and reduce their chances of falling. To the untrained eye, it would seem like walkers and walking frames do the same thing, but there are some key differences between them.
Different users have different needs and a walker might be good for one person while a walking frame would be more appropriate for another.
Each product has its own unique benefits, so in this article, we’ll explain the main differences between a walker and a walking frame to help guide your purchase.
Key differences
A walking frame is simply a frame with handles and legs that need to be lifted for movement. This allows for a slower pace of movement and stability.
The downfall of a walking frame is that the user needs enough arm strength to pick up the walker and move it forward one step at a time. With this in mind, most therapists recommend walking frames for those who only need some extra help.
A walker has wheels and only needs to be pushed to move forward, making them faster and easier to use than a walking frame. This product can conserve the user’s energy because it doesn’t require them to lift it up for movement, leading to a faster walking speed and a normal gait.
Plus, walkers have special features like hand-operated brakes; some even have padded seats and backrests so the user can rest.
Different types of walkers
If a person cannot bear weight on one or even both legs but is still mobile enough not to need a wheelchair, a walker is probably the right choice for them. A walker is best for those who can walk but need some extra help with balance and stability due to its wheels and manoeuvrability.
Unlike a walking frame, multiple types of walkers are available based on your individual needs. For example, some three-wheel walkers provide more mobility for those who don’t need as much support but aren’t stable enough to use a four-wheel walker.
Three-wheel walkers are for users who want to walk faster and don’t require a seat for resting. These types of walkers are usually narrower and can be used to move through narrow areas, featuring a tighter turning circle for easier navigation.
On the other hand, four-wheel walkers provide more support and stability than three-wheel walkers. Thanks to the product's width, most four-wheel walkers have a padded seat for the user to sit and rest when tired. They can also accommodate a wider range of user heights and weight capacities than a three-wheel walker.
The only downfall of this type of walker is that the width can make it harder to manoeuvre through doorways and hallways compared to its three-wheeled counterpart.
The best walkers for seniors at Active Mobility
The Rolio+ Walker
The Rolio+ Walker offers a blend of ergonomic design, adjustability, and class, making it the perfect combination of function and style in mobility. With a weight capacity of 180kg, it provides unparalleled strength and performance for individuals of all shapes and sizes.
Key features:
- Supreme Comfort: The ultra-comfort seat crafted from high-quality, durable materials provides exceptional cushioning comfort during rest breaks, while the adjustable backrest height and depth allow for personalised comfort settings, increasing support to the body when seated.
- Portability: The lightweight aluminium frame enables easy transportation, making it a trusty companion for shopping trips, walks in the park, or holidays. The simple one-touch folding and unfolding mechanism removes any travel fuss.
- Convenience: The Rolio+ tote bag provides ample space for a handbag and essentials, allowing you to travel light and carefree wherever you go.
- Sturdy Handling: High-quality aluminium provides extra strength and sturdy handling, while the ergonomic shape and comfort handles fit perfectly in the hand, delivering softer and smoother handling.
Redgum Aluminium Side Folding Walker
The Redgum walker is a lightweight aluminium walker with an ergonomic design and a weight capacity of 136kg. It features 200mm spoked wheels and comes in three colour options: Blue, Red, and White. Additionally, there are optional add-ons available, like the Quokka Cup Holder, Horizontal Bag, Adaptors for Angled and Straight Frames, Smartphone Cases, and various bags.
Heavy Duty Forearm Walker
With its ergonomic design and sturdy construction, this bariatric forearm walker offers unparalleled support and maneuverability, making it the go-to choice for individuals seeking enhanced mobility and comfort.
Key features:
- Padded Forearm Gutter: The padded forearm gutter provides a comfortable rest for your wrists while using the walker, making it ideal for individuals with limited hand and wrist strength.
- Enhanced Maneuverability: Equipped with four swivel castors, this walker eliminates the need to lift the frame, allowing for effortless pushing and continuous movement.
- Adjustable Blue Frame: The blue frame can be adjusted up to 123cm, ensuring a suitable fit regardless of height.
Explore various different types of walkers & frames online
Still unsure what type of walker or frame is best for you or your patient? Discover our extensive range of walkers and walking frames online today! We stock both products in various colours, sizes and configurations from some of the world’s best mobility brands.
We offer fast and affordable shipping through reputable couriers like TNT.
Alternatively, contact our sales team at (02) 9649 2111 for expert recommendations and advice. We offer showroom tours by appointment so you can get a feel for the right walker or walking frame to suit your needs.
