Do you want to know the best narrow walkers for seniors? Don’t worry. I got you.
I recently checked on my dad, as I’ve always done every other weekend. So on this specific day, I noticed that he was a bit wobbly, despite using the cane. I knew I needed to get him a walker.
The walker had to be narrow because come on. We could not afford to remove the door frames around the home. Therefore, I researched the best narrow walkers.
Here’s what I found.
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Table of Contents
Top Narrow Walkers at a Glance
- – Best narrow walker for Maintaining an Upright Posture (Winner)
- – Best Lightweight, Foldable Narrow Walker (Runners up)
- – Lightest, Narrowest 3-Wheel Walker
- Able Life Space Saver Lightweight Walker – Portable narrow walker for heavier users
- U-Step Walker 2 – Best for Patients with Neurological Illness
Don’t have time? Here is a quick comparison of our favorites!
[amazon table=”12867″]
10 Top Narrow Width Walkers for the Elderly
1. – Best narrow walker for Maintaining an Upright Posture (Winner)
My lovely dad has been using the for several weeks now, and he loves it! He is over the moon, telling his long-time friends how he no longer has back pains and headaches since purchasing the walker.
Unknowingly, all these are benefits of the excellent posture1 he has developed, thanks to this walker. I consider it the best choice for seniors looking for a narrow walker.
Features & Attributes
- Aluminum frame
- Maximum user weight: 300lbs
- Recommended user height: 5′ to 6’1″
- Color: Black, Blue, or Red
- Detachable shoulder bag
- Comfortable armrest to reduce tension on the arms while the user moves
Measurements
- Weighs 20lbs
- Maximum Width 25″
- 5’6″ standing height
- Seat measures 17.5″ by 9.5″
Benefits & Drawbacks of Vive Health Upright Walker
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Easy to control the brakes | It can only be assembled with the help of another person besides its user, as I mentioned in my review of this walker here. |
Lightweight yet sturdy | |
Dedicated cane holder | |
Foldable and compact – it can be easily folded into the backseat of your car. | |
Has a sitting option |
How it Compares to Others
- Walker and handle heights are adjustable, unlike some other walkers
Expert Tips
- Bretty Sears, an experienced physical therapist, mentions that this walker is the best choice for people recovering from injuries and chronic illnesses.
Now that you have information on the Vive Health Upright Walker, which is the best upright walker, all you need to do is go right on and purchase it from or Amazon.com.
Watch this video for more details on how to assemble the Vive upright walker.
Here’s another video about Vive Health walker.
Embed Copied!
2. – Best Lightweight, Foldable Narrow Walker (Runners up)
[amazon fields=”B06WP86CSX” value=”thumb” image=”1″ image_size=”large” image_alt=”Vive Mobility Rollator Walker – Folding 4 Wheel Medical Rolling Walker with Seat & Bag – Mobility Aid for Adult, Senior, Elderly & Handicap – Aluminum Transport Chair (Red)”]
If you’re looking for an affordable, foldable, extremely light walker, the should be your priority.
Features & Attributes
- Anodized Aluminum frame
- Maximum User Weight: 250lbs
- Recommended User Height: 5’1″ to 6’6″
- Color: Black, Blue, Red, and Pink
- Attachable walker bag
Measurements
- Weighs 6lbs.
- Maximum Width 23″
- 23″at the base, 20″ at the top, and 18″ deep
- Height adjustable in 1″ increments from 33-40 inches
Benefits & Drawbacks of Vive Health Folding Walker
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
It can be folded in seconds – you need to press two buttons, the walker folds, and you’re ready for travel or storage. | Some users say that the handgrips get uncomfortable after long-term use |
No assembly required | Comes with a limited 60-day guarantee |
Foldable design | |
Two 5-inch rubber sport wheels so you can change them into a front-wheel walker for added flexibility. | |
The walker height can be adjusted, making it suitable for many people. |
How it Compares to Others
- It folds so easily and needs no assembling compared to other walkers
- It is more affordable than many other walkers – as low as $78 here.
Expert Tips
- Placing the wheels facing the outside rather than the inside improves stability.
What Others Say About It
- One customer said that the folding walker’s adjustable height is a plus, and the bag comes in handy.
The folding walker is available from Vive Health’s Website or at Healthproductsforyou.com.
[amazon box=”B06WP86CSX”]
For further details, check out this video!
Check more standing walker for adults!
3. – Lightest, Narrowest 3-Wheel Walker
[amazon fields=”B07SB8DQKK” value=”thumb” image=”1″ image_size=”large” image_alt=”Vive Mobility 3 Wheel Walker – Three Wheeled Rollator for Seniors – Lightweight, Foldable, Narrow, Heavy Duty – for Elderly, Men, Women – Folding 3-Wheel Tri Walking Scooter – with Basket Bag”]
If you just need some support, not full support, there’s no need for a 4-wheeled rollator. You only need .
Features & Attributes
- Lightweight Aluminum frame
- Maximum user weight: 250lbs
- Color: Black and Blue
- Compact Foldable design
- Adjustable handle height
- Gray Detachable storage bag
Measurements
- Weighs 11lbs
- Maximum Width 21″
- Base width 21″ when open, 9″ when folded
- Height 35″
- Length 26″
- Wheel diameter 8″
Benefits & Drawbacks of Vive Health 3-Wheel Rollator
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Lightweight | Reduced stability, therefore not suitable for users who feel precarious on their feet or need additional support2 |
Ergonomic handbrakes | No seat |
Ideal for both indoors and outdoors | |
Three wheels make it easier for users to maneuver around. To understand more about 3-wheeled walkers, here is another 3-wheeled walker with seat reviews. | |
How it Compares to Others
- It’s among the few walkers that are suitable for both indoors and outdoors
Expert Tips
- Please check the brake cables and retighten the adjuster crew, if necessary.
The walker is available for purchase from Vive Health’s Website or Amazon.com.
[amazon box=”B07SB8DQKK”]
4. Able Life Space Saver Lightweight Walker – Portable narrow walker for heavier users
[amazon fields=”B0026IBSV4″ value=”thumb” image=”1″ image_size=”large” image_alt=”Able Life Space Saver Walker, Lightweight Folding Mobility Rolling Walker for Seniors and Adults, 6-inch Wheels and Ski Glides, Regal Rose”]
Are you looking for a travel walker? The Able Life Space Saver Walker is the best option for you. It is currently the most lightweight and portable narrow walker in the world!
Features & Attributes
- Aluminum frame
- Maximum user weight: 400lbs
- Recommended User Height: 5’6″ to 6’3″
- Color: Black, Blue, and Regal Rose
- It comes with a free organizer pouch
- Its compactness is top-notch.
- It stands upright when folded, making it easy to tuck it behind your favorite restaurant seat
Measurements
- Weighs 8lbs
- 24″ maximum width
- 32″ Length, 24″ Width, and 24″ Height
- Large fixed 6″ front wheels.
Benefits & Drawbacks
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Available in multiple variants to match your personality and lifestyle | The wheels are fixed, making it difficult to make turns |
Lightweight and Foldable hence ideal for traveling | No brakes |
Fits on small doorways – it can fit through 22″ doorways | No seat |
Small enough to fit on the front car seat | |
Elegant minimalistic design |
How it Compares to Others
- It is currently the smallest foldable narrow walker in the world
Expert Tips
- To stand while folded, you have to put the wheels in the reverse position
You can get the Able Life Space Saver Walker on Amazon.com and Walmart.com
[amazon box=”B0026IBSV4″]
Check out this video for more details on the Able Life Space Saver Walker.
5. U-Step Walker 2 – Best for Patients with Neurological Illness
[amazon fields=”B0073XVAVK” value=”thumb” image=”1″ image_size=”large” image_alt=”U-Step II Walking Stabilizer (Black Walker)”]
Are you looking for a walker that perfectly meets the needs of patients with neurological illnesses – such as Parkinson’s Disease and Multiple Sclerosis? Cut the slack and get yourself/your loved one the U-Step Walker.
Features & Attributes
- Aluminum Frame
- Maximum user weight: 375lbs
- Recommended User Height: 5’1 to 6’1″
- Color: Black
- Comes with a basket
- Ergonomic handlebars
Measurements
- Weighs 21 lbs.
- Maximum Width 23″
- Length 25″, Width 23″, Height 28″ – 38.5″
- Seat Dimensions: 19″ seat width, 8″ seat depth, and 22″ seat-to-floor height.
Benefits & Drawbacks of U-Step Walker 2
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Has a U-shape frame – it lowers the center of gravity hence less chances of falling. | You have to keep holding the brake handles throughout; otherwise, the walker will stop. |
Foldable | There is a concern that the newer models have less durable tubes |
Lightweight | |
Ideal for narrow doorways because of the tight turning radius | |
The wheels are loaded with spring hence perfect for rough terrain. |
Check out the U-Step Walker in action in the video below!
How it Compares to Others
- It comes with seven wheels
- Its shape also makes it more stable than other walkers
How it’s Evolved Over Time
- The new model has gutter arms for users with limited grip strength
Expert Tips
- Get some additional weights at the base to increase the walker’s stability.
You can get the U-Step Walker 2 on 1800wheelchair.com and Walmart.com
[amazon box=”B0073XVAVK”]
6. Oasis Space Heavy-Duty Walker – Best for Obese users
[amazon fields=”B07WR8Y6F4″ value=”thumb” image=”1″ image_size=”large” image_alt=”OasisSpace Heavy Duty Rollator Walker – Bariatric Rollator Walker with Large Seat for Seniors Support Up 450 lbs (Blue)”]
Looking for a narrow walker for 450lbs user? Look no further. The Oasis Space Heavy-Duty Walker is a perfect choice narrow walker.
Features & Attributes
- Aluminum frame
- Maximum user weight – 450 pounds
- Recommended User Height: 5’3 to 6’2″
- Color: Red and Blue
- Height adjustable padded armrests
Measurements
- Weighs 25lbs.
- Maximum Width 24.8″
- 10″ front wheels
- 8″ back wheels
- 39″- 48″ height adjustment
- Seat Dimensions: 18.5″ Length, 6.3″ Width, and 1.6″ Height
For more details, check out the video below.
Benefits & Drawbacks of Oasis Space Heavy-Duty Walker
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
The weight capacity makes it a good fit for many overweight | Relatively wider than standard doors |
It comes with a medical certificate | |
Ergonomic brakes | |
Comes with a storage bag | |
Comes with a 1-year warranty |
How it Compares to Others
- Comes with a wider seat
How it’s Evolved Over Time
- One of the users mentioned that the walker’s manufacturer had changed its design to accommodate heavier users.
Expert Tips
- The replaceable armrests can be bought from the manufacturer. The armrests are not durable, so that they might need replacement.
You can get the Oasis Space Heavy-Duty Walker on Amazon.com and Walmart.
[amazon box=”B07WR8Y6F4″]
7. Drive Medical Nitro Euro Style Rollator Walker – Best for outdoor
[amazon fields=”B009SOC9PI” value=”thumb” image=”1″ image_size=”large” image_alt=”Drive Medical RTL10266 Nitro Euro-Style 4-Wheel Rollator Walker With Seat, Red”]
If you’re looking for a perfect outdoor narrow walking frame with some pomp of European design, get yourself the Drive Medical Nitro Euro Style Rollator Walker.
Features & Attributes
- Aluminum frame
- Maximum user weight: 300lbs
- Recommended User Height: 6’0″ and above
- Color: Red, Black, and White
- Adjustable height
- Comes with a built-in seat with an adjustable backrest
Measurements
- Weighs 17.5lbs
- Maximum Width 23″
- 27.75″ (L), 23″ (W), 33.5 – 38.25″ (H)
- Seat: 18.5 (L), 6.3 (W), 1.6 (H)
Benefits & Drawbacks of Drive Medical Nitro Euro Style Rollator Walker
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Lightweight frame | It is quite expensive |
Large front wheels – Preston Brown, a Doctor of Physical Therapy, says that the larger the wheel size, the easier it is for the user to negotiate sidewalks with cracks and creases. | |
Suitable for both indoor and outdoor | |
Large storage bag | |
Easy to fold and compact design, making it ideal for travel |
How it Compares to Others
- The storage bag is bigger (in terms of capacity) than other walker models.
Expert Tips
- The brakes are designed to hold the walker still, not necessarily slow it down. Therefore, do not rely on them to control speed; otherwise, your will fall.
What Others Say about it
- One user was happy that he did not have to use his walker and stooped over after experiencing backache. The walker is excellent for tall people.
You can get the Nitro Euro Style Rollator Walker on Amazon.com and Walmart
Check out this review of the Drive Medical Nitro Euro Style Walker.
8. Stander EZ Fold N Go Walker – Best for Obese Travelers
[amazon fields=”B00QASXSL4″ value=”thumb” image=”1″ image_size=”large” image_alt=”Stander EZ Fold N Go Walker”]
Are you looking for a walker that accommodates the needs of heavier users who love to travel? The Stander EZ Fold N Go Walker is an excellent option.
Features & Attributes
- Aluminum frame
- Maximum User Weight: 400lbs
- Color – Black Walnut, Blue, and Regal Rose
- Comes with an organizer pouch
Measurements
- Weighs 8lbs
- Maximum Width 24″
- Comes in two sizes
- Standard walkers – adjusts in height from 32″ to 38″ to accommodate taller users 5’6″ to 6’3″
- Short walkers – adjusts in height from 28″ – 33″ to accommodate shorter users, 4’11″ to 5’7″
- 6″ Front wheels
Benefits & Drawbacks of Stander EZ Fold N Go Walker
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Foldable | Several users felt it was not as stable as expected |
Lightweight | No brakes, so you have to be more cautious as you walk |
Ideal for heavier users – 400lbs and below | |
No assembly required |
How it Compares to Others
- It folds 4 times smaller than the average walker!
Here’s a video of the walker in action.
Expert Tips
- The walker springs open from the closed position, but you can tape it if necessary.
What others Say About It
- One user liked that all you have to do after purchase is remove the walker from the box, and you’re ready to go with it since there’s no assembling.
- Another user disliked the fact that it has no rear wheels
You can find the EZ Fold N Go Walker on Stander.com and Amazon.com.
[amazon box=”B00QASXSL4″]
9. Drive Medical 4 Wheel Rollator Walker – Affordable stand-up walker
[amazon fields=”B005S1CHKC” value=”thumb” image=”1″ image_size=”large” image_alt=”Drive Medical 10257RD-1 Four Wheel Rollator with Fold Up Removable Back Support, Red”]
If you’re looking for an affordable stand-up walker for a heavier user, make the Drive Medical 4 Wheel Rollator Walker a priority. It offers great weight capacity for the price.
Features & Attributes
- Steel Frame
- Maximum User Weight: 300lbs
- Recommended User Height: 6’0″ and above
- Color: Red and Blue
- Height adjustable handles
Measurements
- Weighs 17.9 lbs.
- Maximum Width 24.5″
- Larger wheels (7.5-inch)
- 25.5″ (L), 23.5″ (W), 31″-37″ handle height
- Seat Dimensions: 12″ (D), 12″ (W) by 21 (H)
Benefits & Drawbacks of Drive Medical 4 Wheel Rollator Walker
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Ideal for both indoor and outdoor use | The wheels are not very durable; they keep breaking |
Comfortable seat | Quite heavy for users to lift |
A Folding Walker | |
Comes with a convenient storage pouch or basket | |
Large wheels, therefore, smooth rolling on rough surfaces. |
Here’s a review of the Drive Medical 4 Wheel Rollator Walker.
How it Compares to Others
- It has a steel frame, while most other narrow walkers are made of Aluminum
- It is heavier than most narrow walkers
Expert Tips
- The Drive Medical 4 walker does not stand upright on its while folded; you need to prop it up against something else.
You can find the Drive Medical 4 Wheel Rollator Walker on Amazon.com and Walmart.
[amazon box=”B005S1CHKC”]
10. Coopers Ultra-Narrow Walking Frame – Extremely Narrow Walker
This is the ultimate choice if you’re looking for a highly narrow walker. With the Coopers Ultra-Narrow Walking Frame, you will face no accessibility issues, even in the narrowest doors.
Features & Attributes
- Aluminum light-weight frame
- Maximum user weight: 350lbs
- Color: Silver
- Adjustable height
Measurements
- Weighs 4lbs
- Maximum Width 19.5″
- 17.5″ Depth, 19.5″ Width, 30″-33″ Height
Benefits & Drawbacks of Coopers Ultra-Narrow Walking Frame
Benefits | Drawbacks |
---|---|
Lightweight | Customers feel like the walker is not sturdy because of its narrow frame |
Comfortable hand-grips | |
Ultra-narrow frames make it easier to move in narrow spaces. | |
Low weight makes it easy to move in small places | |
Available with or without wheels | |
No assembling required |
How it Compares to Others
- It has an ultra-narrow frame, making it an excellent choice for domestic use or narrow spaces.
Expert Tips
- Be sure you get the right size, otherwise, it could cause backache if you get one that is too small.
Narrow Walkers for Small Places
If you’re searching for the best narrow walkers for tight spaces, either of these models outlined below is an excellent option
- Nitro Euro Style Rollator Walker – overall width of 23″
- Stander EZ Fold N Go Walker – an overall width of 25.5″
- Drive Medical 4 Wheel Rollator Walker – an overall width of 24.5″
- Ultra-Narrow Walking Frame – an overall width of 19.5″
READ MORE: Does medicare cover walkers?
How to Choose the Best Narrow Walkers for Seniors?
When deciding which narrow walker to purchase for you or your loved one, consider the space you live in and also the other places you frequent.
For instance, if you live in a home with narrow doors, let the width of the walker be a priority. If you have stairs without railings, it might also be worth researching how to use a walker on stairs without railing.
The same case applies if you’re looking for a walker to travel to places with narrow passageways such as Europe.
Secondly, consider the needs and preferences of the specific user. This could be as simple as considering the colors they prefer!
Most assistive mobility devices end up unused or abandoned by patients because they do not meet their functional needs and preferences3
Third, consider the manufacturer’s specific intended use of the walker – outdoor/indoor, recommended user height/weight, etc. Remember that when used wrongly, the intended assistive solution is likely to make the walking problem worse4.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I Need a Different Narrow Walker for Indoor and Outdoor Use?
Most narrow walkers are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. However, there are wider walkers mainly used for outdoor purposes because the large wheels make it easier to maneuver rough terrain outdoors.
Should I Choose a Narrow Walker with Wheels or Without?
Walkers without wheels are best suited for indoor use because the floor is even. When moving on uneven terrain, mostly outdoor, it is advisable to use walkers with wheels for easy navigation.
How do you get up from a chair using a walker?
First, make sure both feet are firmly on the floor. Hold the walker’s crossbar with one hand while the other holds the chair’s arm. Use the walker and the chair respectively to raise yourself slowly off the chair.
Is It Safe for Seniors to Use a Narrow Walker?
Yes. Narrow walkers are designed to facilitate movement while maintaining both mobility and stability. As long as you consider the weight limits for each walker plus the individual needs.
Does Medicare cover narrow walkers?
Yes. Just like other durable medical equipment, Medicare Part B also covers Narrow walkers, provided you have a doctor’s prescription. Mostly, you will pay 20% of the costs after deductions. Unfortunately, there is no upright walker covered by Medicare.
Conclusion
Checking out wheelchairs for my dad has taught me so much information about wheelchairs. I hope you learned a thing or two from my review. Cheers!
Resources
- Jonaitis, J. These 12 Exercises Will Help You Reap the Health Benefits of Good Posture. [Internet] 2018. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/fitness-exercise/posture-benefits
- Webster, A. 3-Wheel Walkers vs 4-Wheel Walkers: Which one is Right for You? [Internet] 2018. Available from: https://www.elevatingseniors.com/3-vs-4-wheel-walker/
- Bouça-Machado, R., Maetzler, W., & Ferreira, J. J. (2018). What is functional mobility applied to Parkinson’s disease? Journal of Parkinson’s Disease, 8(1), 121-130. Available from: https://content.iospress.com/articles/journal-of-parkinsons-disease/jpd171233
- Purdue University. Weight issues move up need for walkers, canes, other devices. Science Daily. 2010. [Internet] Available from: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/07/100728121331.htm