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What is an upright walker? Is it just another in a long line of mobility tools? Or does it really help those with mobility issues achieve a sense of independence and freedom?
Whether for a young adult or a seasoned senior, an upright walker can be a terrific way to get around. They’re easy to use, lightweight, and can be maneuvered in tight spaces.
Read on for a detailed guide on upright walkers.
Check: Best Stand Up Walkers for Seniors
Table of Contents
Exactly What Are Upright Walkers?
The upright walker goes by many names. From Standard walkers and conventional walkers to stand-up walkers for seniors.
These exceptional mobility devices are an improvement of the traditional rollator walker.
The new elevated design allows the user to walk upright instead of slouching over. This is due to the padded armrests and height-adjustable handlebars.
An upright walker can be a great way to improve mobility if you’re dealing with medical conditions like back pain, arthritis, herniated disc & stenosis, or muscle weakness [1].
So, if you’re looking for an easy-to-use mobility device that will help you move around with ease, then an upright walker is a great choice!
3 Reasons Why You Should Get An Upright Walker
There are many reasons you should consider getting it – here are just a few!
1. It fixes poor posture!
You read it right; upright walkers can help fix bad posture while you walk.
The walker helps support your upper body, therefore, elongating your back.
The handles also support the hands and arms, removing the pressure from your wrists, ankles, and back.
Study records show that this upright device helps elongate your back whenever you’re on it because it supports your upper body as your forearms help establish your balance [2].
These assistive devices can also help improve your balance and coordination as you learn to walk within a more upright posture.
Here’s a video showing how an upright walker aid posture and tips on utilizing it efficiently!
2. Supports heavy body weight
This is probably the most sensible reason you might need this mobility device– they can support a lot of weight!
While a traditional walker can only hold up to 250 lbs, upright walkers have larger wheels that can support up to 500 lbs [3].
So if you’re on the heavier side or carrying around some extra pounds, this may be the perfect mobility aid.
3. It keeps you active and prevents health risks!
Last but not least, upright walkers keep you active!
While a standard walker confines you to a stationary position, an upright walker allows you to move around more easily.
This means that you can still go out and do the things you love without worrying about your mobility.
RELATED ARTICLE: Tips on How to Choose a Walker
Who Is An Upright Walker For?
An upright walker is not just for the elderly!
Here are a variety of people in different situations for daily living where upright rollator walkers are needed[4] :
- People with poor posture
- People who struggle with speed when walking
- People who are overweight or obese
- People who want to stay active and independent despite mobility issues.
So, if you’re considering buying these rolling walkers, ask yourself whether you fit into any of these categories. It might be the perfect mobility aid for you if you do!
Other situations where you might need this medical equipment include; after surgery, when pregnant, or when you have a disability.
Ultimately, it’s best to consult a physical therapist or doctor to see if an upright walker is the best mobility aid for you.
But how do you use an upright walker in the first place? Below I included a video that goes into detail about how to use an upright walker:
Where To Buy An Upright Walker?
Now that you know all about upright walkers, you might be wondering, “Where to buy a walker for elderly near me?”
Luckily, the market for walkers is dense, so there are many places you can purchase this assistive mobility device, including online and in physical stores.
First, you have to know that the price of a walker may vary.
So, when looking for the best price, it’s always a good idea to compare different sellers and prices.
Some good places to start looking are online retailers like Amazon and local stores like Walgreens or CVS.
When purchasing an upright walker, be sure to ask the seller a few questions first:
- Is the walker adjustable?
- Can the height of the handlebars be changed?
- What is the weight capacity of the walker?
- Is the walker foldable for easy transport and storage?
By answering these questions, you can be sure to find the best upright walker for your needs, whereas if budget is a concern then also you have an option to go with available used walkers for seniors in the market.
FAQs
What is the safest upright walker?
There is no definitive answer as different walkers may be better suited for different people. With many tips on how to choose a walker, It is always recommended that you speak with a doctor or physical therapist to see if an upright walker is the best mobility aid for you.
Does Walmart have upright walkers?
Walmart does not carry upright walkers in their physical stores, but you can purchase them online at Walmart.com.
What type of walker Will Medicare pay for?
Medicare will pay for a standard walker if they deem it necessary.
The amount of upright walker covered by Medicare will depend on your use and the doctor’s assessment. So, it is best to contact Medicare directly to see what walker they would cover for you.
Conclusion
Walking doesn’t have to be hard for those who might otherwise find it difficult. With the help of an upright walker, you can quickly and easily walk with better posture and less weight on your feet!
This is an excellent investment for those who want to stay active and independent.
Upright walkers are available at many different price points and come in various styles, so be sure to do your research before purchasing one!
What is an upright walker? Do you have one? Let us know below!
References
- 1. Spinal Stenosis Walking Problems: Why, Tips, and More. Healthline. Published February 17, 2021. Accessed April 20, 2022. https://www.healthline.com/health/spinal-stenosis-walking-concerns
- 2. Jayaraman, C., Mummidisetty, C. K., Loesch, A., Kaur, S., Hoppe-Ludwig, S., Staat, M., & Jayaraman, A. (2019). Postural and metabolic benefits of using a forearm support walker in older adults with impairments. Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation, 100(4), 638-647.
- 3. Nawrot J. The Weight Limit of a Bariatric Walker. The Elder Expo. Published February 8, 2022. Accessed April 20, 2022. https://theelderexpo.com/the-weight-limit-of-a-bariatric-walker
- 4. PhD AJ PT, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab. LifeWalker Upright Walker Versus Conventional Rollator Walker and Predicate Device. clinicaltrials.gov. Published August 15, 2019. Accessed April 20, 2022. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02968277
