Walking has a range of benefits to help improve our well-being:
- It helps improve your mood and reduces stresses
- It helps to build strength and reduce the risk of falls
- It can help improve heart health and blood pressure
If strength and balance prevent you from walking as much as you’d like, there are many ways to help. Mobility aids can help you maintain your independence and walk with confidence. Whether you need a walking stick, walking frame, or rollator, understanding when to use each type of aid can help support your mobility needs.
When to use a walking stick
A walking stick is a great starting point if you're looking for extra support. They’ve come a long way from the classic crook shape and now have many designs and styles. Whether a carved walking stick takes your fancy or you want one that folds away, you should be able to find the right stick to suit your needs.
Types of walking sticks
At Complete Care Shop, we have a wide selection of walking sticks and canes, from tripod and Flexyfoot walking sticks to height-adjustable models. We also have walking stick accessories for added convenience and functionality.
When to use a walking stick
Walking sticks are a great option if you experience occasional instability or need minimal support for balance. They’re easy to use and can increase your confidence.
Using a walking stick correctly
Use the walking stick on your strongest side–the side opposite your bad leg–but move with your bad leg. If both legs are causing you problems, consider a different type of mobility aid.
When to use a rollator
Rollators are great and versatile mobility aids for individuals needing more support and the ability to rest when on the go. If you find walking tires you out quickly, some rollator designs have a comfy seat so you can take a rest when you need to, like the Mobility Care Aluminium Rollator.
Types of rollators
Part of the appeal of a rollator is its versatility in style and design; there are options with three wheels or four wheels, different accessories, frames, and many colour options, like the lightweight Freestyle 3 Wheel Rollator, which comes in a variety of colours.
When to use a rollator
Rollators are well-suited for people who need additional support and may require occasional rest stops while walking. They’re perfect for longer distances, such as outdoor walks or shopping trips. 4 wheel rollators, especially, are more robust and offer a stable walking aid to rest on.
Using a rollator correctly
Make sure your rollator is adjusted to the correct height so the handles reach your wrists when your arms are relaxed by your sides. Use both hands on the handles for stability, and if your rollator has a seat, make sure you put the brakes on before sitting. When walking, keep the rollator close to your body and avoid pushing it too far ahead, which can cause instability.
Take a look at our detailed rollator buying guide for more information and to find the ideal model for you.
When to use a walking frame
Walking frames can offer more stability than a walking stick if your mobility isn’t quite what it used to be. They’re designed for those needing significant support to maintain balance and stability.
Types of walking frames
Complete Care Shop has a range of standard walking frames with ferrules and wheeled frames. For added convenience, we also have walking frame accessories like caddies and apron bags.
When to use a walking frame
Walking frames are suitable for individuals who need stable support due to balance issues or weakness when walking. They’re recommended for indoor use and shorter distances, providing a sturdy base that reduces the risk of falls.
Using a walking frame correctly
Stand within the frame and move it slightly forward before each step. Ensure your hands are positioned on the handles, and keep the frame close to your body to prevent overreaching, which can lead to falls. Read our detailed walking frame guide for more information.
Walk Safe®
The Walk Safe® can offer stability, comfort and mobility around the home. Its features, such as large front swivel wheels, rear gliders, and pressure brakes, make it easy for you to get around the house, manoeuvre over thresholds, turn without lifting the frame, and stop safely and securely. Its ergonomic, fully welded frame is sturdy enough to support you and can be height and width adjusted to fit around your body. If walking around the house unassisted is becoming a challenge, it is a great walking aid that allows you to move confidently, independently, and safely around your home.
Find the ideal mobility aid at Complete Care Shop
Complete Care Shop is dedicated to enabling your independence and safety with our high-quality, user-friendly mobility and living aids. Browse our large selection of mobility aids to find one that suits your needs. We have everything from rollators to mobility scooters, crutches, and wheelchairs. If you require additional assistance choosing a mobility aid, contact our qualified Occupational Therapists for expert product advice.
You can also browse our help and advice blog for more product guides or contact us.
[1] https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/walking-for-health/
[2] https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/activity/6-surprising-health-benefits-of-walking
[3] https://www.oxfordhealth.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/OP-101.15-Safety-information-leaflet-four-wheeled-rollators.pdf
