If you have mobility issues, getting the right walker is critical. Once you have a walker, you can get your freedom back. It’ll be much easier to move from room to room, and you’ll be able to go outside with ease.
Narrow walkers are often the best option for people with mobility issues, like our CDPAP patients. First, go over the different types of walkers. Then, get the details regarding safety and buying the walker. Finally, we’ll look at the top five narrow walkers for seniors.
Types of Walkers
When you shop for walkers, you’ll come across lots of options. Let’s take a look at some of the top choices.
Basic Walkers
Basic, or standard walkers, have:
· Four straight legs
· Frame
· No wheels
You can adjust the width and height of the walker based on your needs. It’s important to set it up so it’s an appropriate height. Otherwise, you won’t feel as stable when walking.
If you use a basic walker, you’ll need to pick it up and place it on the ground in front of you. Once all four legs are on the ground, you can take a step. If the legs aren’t firmly planted on the ground, the walker might topple.
If you want to walk naturally with a standard walker, you can get caps or gliders for the legs. Then, the walker will glide across the floor. This makes it much easier to maneuver.
Two-Wheeled Walkers
Two-wheeled walkers are another popular choice. The wheels are located on the front of the walker, and rubber tips are generally on the back legs. This keeps the walker from rolling back when you’re standing or moving.
Most two-wheeled walkers work as anterior or posterior mobility devices. You’ll use an anterior walker just like any other walker. Put it in front of you and move it forward to walk. The wheels will roll as you move, allowing you to move relatively quickly.
A posterior walker is a bit different. It’s designed to add support to the back of your body. If you have issues with balance or posture, this walker can help.
You’ll begin by standing in the middle of the walker, with the frame behind you. Then you will pull the walker forward while you walk. It will keep your frame upright and stable so you don’t fall.
Rollators
Rollators are also on wheels. Instead of using two wheels, rollators come with three to four wheels. Rollators also have:
· Handlebars
· Seats
· Hand brakes
A rollator moves quickly, so you need to be coordinated if you use one. It operates like a standard walker, with you standing behind and pushing it forward.
Hemi Walkers
If you can only use one arm or hand, a Hemi walker might be the right choice. A Hemi walker includes:
· A single handle
· Four legs
This walker is more stable than a cane, and it’s also lightweight.
Is it Safe for Seniors to Use a Narrow Walker?
Because narrow walkers are lightweight, you might be concerned about safety. Fortunately, you can put your concern to rest. Narrow walkers from trusted manufacturers are just as safe as standard walkers.
In fact, they are even safer in some situations. If you use a standard walker to navigate a narrow space, you could end up falling. This can cause broken bones and other injuries. Anytime you’re in a small space, a narrow walker is the right choice.
What Is the Difference Between a Walker and a Rollator? Which One Do You Need?
Walkers and rollators are similar, so it can be hard to decide which to get. Understanding the difference between the two will help you make a choice.
The walker’s frames and legs are sturdy enough to help you move, even if you cannot bear weight on one or both legs. Many people use walkers when a cane isn’t enough, but a wheelchair isn’t necessary.
This piece of equipment is also vital if you need to make your way through narrow spaces, such as hallways. You can easily get through most spaces with a narrow walker.
A rollator is more advanced than a walker. You’ll want to go with this option if you can walk on your own but get tired quickly. It will help you with balance, and you can sit as needed. If you cannot bear weight on one of your legs, though, this is not the right choice.
When you decide between the two, start by assessing your mobility. Can you bear weight on both legs? Are you coordinated enough to maintain balance? If so, a rollator is a good choice.
However, if you need help bearing weight and have coordination issues, a walker is a better option.
Does Medicaid Cover Walkers?
Walkers are durable medical equipment, so they are covered by Medicaid. However, you can’t just call a medical equipment company, order a walker, and bill it to Medicaid.
You will need to get a prescription from your doctor to get the walker covered by Medicaid. There also might be coverage limitations, meaning you need to be mindful of the price of the walker.
Medicaid guidelines vary by state, so check with your policy to find out what is covered. Your policy will also include specific guidelines you must follow to get a walker through the program.
Do I Need Different Walkers for Indoor and Outdoor Use?
You can use the same walker for inside and outside. In fact, many seniors prefer to use narrow walkers for both because of the ease of use.
However, you might find that you prefer a wider walker when you’re outside since you don’t have to fit into tight spaces. This is a matter of personal preference. While it isn’t necessary to get different walkers, you should do so if you are more comfortable with a wider walker outside.
Best Narrow Walkers for Seniors
If you are in the market for a narrow walker, it’s essential to choose one of the best. The best narrow walkers provide the support and stability you need.
Let’s dive in and look at the top five narrow walkers for seniors.
1. Able Life Space Saver Walker
The Able Safe Space Saver Walker is currently one of the most popular and highest-rated walkers available. It retails for $109.99, and you can purchase it from the manufacturer. You can also buy it from Amazon, Walmart, and other retailers.
This walker:
· Weighs eight pounds
· Comes in standard and short sizes
· Has 6-inch wheels on the front
· Supports up to 400 pounds
· Easily folds to a quarter of the size of standard walkers
If you get the standard size, you can adjust it from 32 inches to 38 inches in height. The short-size walker can be adjusted from 28 inches to 33 inches.
With a 4.9-star rating on Google, customers clearly love this walker. People especially like that it’s so lightweight. You can lift it with one arm, making it easy to throw in the back of the car when leaving home.
It’s also durable and does a great job of keeping you balanced when walking. Plus, it’s really affordable when you consider the quality.
2. Stander EZ Fold-N-Go Walker
The Stander EZ Fold-N-Go Walker is easily one of the top narrow walkers on the market. It retails for $159.99 and is available from the manufacturer and various retailers, including Walmart, Walgreens, and Amazon.
You don’t have to assemble this walker after buying it. Instead, you just need to adjust the height. If you go with the standard size, it will adjust from 32 inches to 38 inches tall. If you’re a bit shorter, you can get the short-size walker. It adjusts from 28 inches to 33 inches.
This walker:
· Is four times smaller than average walkers when folded
· Weighs eight pounds
· Supports up to 400 pounds
· Has a nylon pouch
· Includes 6-inch locking swivel wheels
The Stander EZ Fold-N-Go Walker has a 4.7-star rating on Google, with hundreds of positive reviews. People rave about how light it is. Because it’s only eight pounds, you can take it with you without a problem.
It is also easy to fold, so if you don’t need it to walk around the grocery store, you can fold it and put it in the shopping cart. It’s around the size of an umbrella baby stroller when folded, so it’s not a hassle at all.
Finally, it’s sturdy, so you’ll get the support you need with this walker. It’s the perfect choice if a cane isn’t enough, and you don’t want to spend hundreds of dollars on an expensive walker.
3. Drive Medical Deluxe Folding Walker, Two-button With 5-inch Wheels
If you are looking for a low-price narrow walker, check out the Drive Medical Deluxe Folding Walker. You can grab one of these durable medical devices for $28.99 plus tax from multiple retailers, including Amazon and Walmart. Medical supply stores also carry these narrow walkers.
The Drive Medical Deluxe Folding Walker is available in adult and junior sizes. The adult walker can adjust from 32 inches to 39 inches in height, while the junior Walker is adjustable from 25 inches to 32.25 inches.
Before buying the walker, check out the features. It:
· Weighs 7.5 pounds
· Includes an inside hand grip
· Has rear glide caps
· Is sturdy
· Has a weight limit of 350 pounds
The easy-push-button mechanism is the most impressive feature. You can use your hand, fingers, or palms to push the buttons. The two sides are independent of each other, and you can easily fold it up to pouch size.
This walker has a 4.6-star rating on Google, with hundreds of positive testimonials. People love that it’s lightweight and easy to maneuver, and it’s hard to beat the price. The walker makes it easy to get into tight spaces and provides stability on indoor and outdoor surfaces.
4. Drive Mechanical Deluxe, Trigger Release Folding Walker With 5-inch Wheels
The Drive Mechanical Deluxe Trigger Release Folding Walker differs from the other Drive Mechanical offering on this list. It’s a bit lighter and easier to fold, so it’s slightly more expensive. It’s available from various manufacturers, and it sells for $43.31 on Amazon.
This walker:
· Weighs six or seven pounds, depending on the model
· Accommodates up to 350 pounds
· Includes a trigger release
· Has contoured hand grips
· Comes with a rear glide cap
You can get this walker in adult and junior sizes. The adult walker adjusts from 32.5 inches to 39.5 inches tall. The junior walker adjusts from 25.5 inches to 32.5 inches.
It has a 4.7-star rating on Google. People rave about the trigger release, saying it’s easy to use and makes transporting the walker a breeze. It’s also lightweight, so you can toss it in your car when heading out.
Most importantly, this walker is durable and makes it easier to get around. At the same time, it’s affordable.
5. Vive Mobility Folding Walker
The Vive Mobility Folding Walker also scores high marks. This narrow walker retails for $64.99 and is available from the manufacturer and other retailers, including Amazon.
The walker has numerous features. It:
· Weighs less than six pounds
· Has a two-button design that allows you to fold it in seconds
· Includes textured hand grips for comfort
· Supports up to 250 pounds
· Includes an attachable walker bag
· Comes with two 5-inch attachable sports wheels
This walker is adjustable, so you can use it as long as you are between 5-foot-1 and 6-foot-6. It’s easy to adjust, and you can increase or reduce the height in 1-inch increments.
The Vive Mobility Folding Walker has a 4.7-star rating on Google. Reviewers state that it’s easy to adjust, lightweight, and quiet. It’s actually quieter than some other popular brands on the market, so you don’t have to worry about causing a ruckus when gliding along in the walker.
The company also has outstanding customer service. If you choose this walker, consider ordering directly from the company so you can benefit from the customer service.
Choosing a Narrow Walker
You will be pleased with any of these narrow walkers. Begin by getting a prescription for the walker, if needed. Then, choose the best one for your needs.