| Tips For Buying a Four Wheel Walker |
 |
 |
 |
| Written by Guest |
| Thursday, 11 February 2010 11:41 |
|
It can be overwhelming to walk into a medical supply store to purchase a 4 wheel walker for your aging parent. They range is price, color, style and height. What should you be looking for? What makes a good walker anyways? These 7 tips will help you make an informed decision. 1) Height - The general guideline is that the handles should be at the same height as crease of the users wrist when they have their hands at their side. An inch down or up is usually okay if that is more comfortable for the user. You do not want someone crouching over their walker (usually too low) or falling backwards (too high). 2) Width - Most 4 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. 3) Wheel size - The larger the wheel size, the easier it rolls over rough surfaces. If seniors are going to use it outside (and they should), then an 8 inch wheel is a good idea. Small wheels can get caught in sidewalk cracks and dirt/gravel. 4) Brakes - Make sure the senior can use the brakes. Some of them are very stiff and difficult to squeeze. This can be a problem as it is advised that users put the brakes on when sitting down and standing up (ie. they will need to use the brakes frequently during the day).
5) Seat - Make sure the user can sit on the seat and still have their feet touch the ground. |
