How to Buy a Walker

A walker is a commonly used piece of home health care equipment. Whether needing a walker for a temporary period of time to recover from an injury or for long-term use to improve general mobility, buying the right kind of walker is important. These simple tips will help you through the process of buying a walker.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Know what you want. You should decide ahead of time, preferably with the input of a physician, what kind of walker you will need. Your physician will be able to help you decide if you require special features on your walker such as wheels or special hand grips.
2. Compare your options. There are many varieties to choose from when buying a walker. Some have wheels on two or all four legs, while others feature glides to help the walker move easily over carpeting and uneven surfaces. Certain walkers with wheels will have specialized hand grips. Others may fold or be adjustable. Compare all of these features when deciding which walker is right for you.
3. Buy new equipment. Some stores will offer to sell you previously used or rented merchandise for a lower price. This may save you some money, but you cannot be sure that the equipment is in perfect working condition and any warranty or return options will likely be void.
4. Consider replacement parts. The feet or wheels of a walker wear out over time just like a frequently worn pair of shoes. You will want to make sure that any replacement glides, wheels or feet that you may need for your walker in the future will be readily available. If not, consider purchasing a more common model.
5. Walk with the walker. It is not unreasonable to ask to inspect the walker and try maneuvering with it prior to purchase. Make sure it is lightweight enough for you to handle with confidence and that you feel that you are in control of the walker.
6. Inquire about insurance options. Many pharmacies may be able to submit a prescription for your walker to your insurance company or at least tell you what kind of walkers, if any, will be covered under your plan. Ask about these options before your purchase.
7. Learn how to use your walker properly. You should make sure before purchasing the walker you have selected that you know how to walk with it correctly and adjust it if necessary to avoid injuring yourself. If you do not feel comfortable using the walker to aid your mobility, consider other walker models or discuss other options with your doctor.
8. Purchase the walker that fits your budget and is the best choice to aid your mobility.