Tips To Use When Buying 4 Wheeled Walkers

By Carol Miller


Rolling walkers are another class of mobility aid designed to help the senior keep balance while standing or walking and they are an innovation to the ordinary walkers where instead of the usual legs, there are wheels. Rolling walkers come in 3 different versions: 2, 3, and 4 wheeled walkers.

Despite the number of wheels, in using this type of mobility aid there will be lots of pushing much like what a person would do to a shopping cart due to the wheels. This is as opposed to the standard strollers for seniors where what is needed is that the person will lift the walker to be able to use it.

Width - Most four wheel walkers are about the same width. However, there are some that are both wider and narrower. Depending on the seniors home, they may want a walker that is narrower (to easily fit through doorways). However, only purchase a narrow walker if they need it to be narrow. They are not as sturdy as the regular width walkers.

When the sense of balance is impaired in any way, what happens is that a person becomes more prone to falls. For the younger generation who has stronger bones, simple falls are not something to be afraid of that for the senior age bracket, it's a cause of concern since falls have the potential of aggravating the conditions they already have. There are also times when the cause of falls are not the medicines that seniors are taking or their health but also clutter in the house, and snagging on loose carpeting. One of the consequences of falls is experiencing injuries to ankles, spine, or the hip which may cause an even decreased mobility.

The most common four wheeled strollers is equipped with a seat. Usually, you will find a bag or basket under the seat. Some styles place an extra basket on the front for additional storage space. Although it does make the walker longer, making it more difficult to maneuver. Also, it will have a brake system. It's important to lock the brakes anytime the client sits or stands. If this isn't done, there is a risk of injury.

The two most common types of brake systems are the bicycle grip and the spring loaded type that locks anytime weight is applied directly in a downward motion. The bicycle grip brake also is known as a quad grip, is attached to the handle bars and is applied by either squeezing the handle or pushing down on it. To release the brake either release the grip or push up the bottom of the handle.

The average customer review for the MedMobile 4-wheel walker gives it 5 stars for ease of use, easy assembly and expedited shipping. One customer raves, "Excellent Choice.... I purchased this walker for my father and he loves it! It gives him a sense of independence and the ability to walk around without the fear of falling.

When a senior is trying to negotiate an incline, there is something to hold on to thus plus with the braking mechanisms of these rolling walkers, he or she will be confident that the device will not roll toward him or away from him. Most 4-wheeled medical walkers also come with a seat, and this will keep the user from getting too tired as he or she will have a place to sit down and rest.




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