All of us can agree that walkers can be helpful for senior citizens who have balance issues or a disability that prevents them from moving around easily. But with so many types of walkers on the market, it can be difficult to choose the one just right for you.
Most of these mobility devices are lightweight, foldable, and easy to use. Walkers are available with two wheels, four wheels, or no wheels. And, they accommodate short users, tall users, and even obese or bariatric users. Most traditional or standard walkers can support weights between 250 to 300 pounds and bariatric walkers have varying weight limits.
What Are Bariatric Walkers?
Bariatric walkers are walkers made for obese or very large users. They differ from traditional walkers in two ways: they are wider than traditional walkers, and they are extra-sturdy. Most traditional walkers are made with aluminum frames. Bariatric walkers are made with stainless steel, heavy-duty frames to support much more weight. The size and width of a bariatric walker determine the amount of weight it will support.
Types of Bariatric Walkers
There are two types of bariatric walkers: A regular bariatric walker with or without wheels and a bariatric rolling or rollator walker with four wheels. The bariatric walker with or without wheels comes with a heavy-duty, adjustable frame with an extra-wide width for larger users. It folds easily for storage and travel and has four adjustable legs with heights that adjust in one-inch increments.
Bariatric rollator walkers come with four wheels, an extra-wide seat with a backrest, and hand brakes to slow the walker down or bring it to a complete stop. Both types of walkers are designed to support a specific amount of weight.
What Are The Weight Limits of Bariatric Walkers?
The weight limits of bariatric walkers depend on the type of walker. Bariatric walkers with no wheels, two wheels, or four wheels support weights of up to 600 pounds. The bariatric rollator walkers can support weights of up to 1000 pounds. These weight limits are possible because of the reinforced frames.
If you weigh 300 pounds or more up to 600 pounds and are in need of a walker, be sure to select a heavy-duty, bariatric walker with a reinforced frame. These walkers are for obese users needing a weight-bearing mobility device. If you weigh between 600 pounds and 1000 pounds, a rollator walker for obese users is a perfect choice. For more information about bariatric mobility devices, visit theelderexpo.com.
With various types of walkers on the market, a little research can help you determine the one just right for your needs. Taking into consideration your height, weight, and specific mobility issues will help you find the standard walker or bariatric walker that will help keep you mobile and living independently.