Walkers vary in size, design and detail. There is evidence that while walkers do encourage mobility and independence, walker users are at higher risk of falls than non-walker users (Physiopedia), so safety is key.

The references below contain excellent information about walkers, which I won’t repeat here. The Physiopedia article is particularly thorough, with information on walker types, factors involved in walker prescription, usage and correct maintenance.

I will make two strong recommendations.

No matter what your reason for buying a walker, it is crucial to get properly assessed by a PT or OT with experience in this area. There are many factors involved in choosing the right walker for your needs, and PTs and OTs have the skills to help you decide. In addition, the Government of Ontario’s Assistive Devices Program (ADP) helps fund the purchase of medical assistive devices, including walkers. To apply for this assistance you must work with an ADP-registered PT or OT. The Government of Ontario ADP website below provides a list of ADP registered therapists in your area. You can also ask your vendor if they have links with ADP registered therapists.

And finally, try the walker out before you buy. If you’re buying online make sure you can return the walker easily and free of charge.

R. Sian Owen

Registered Physiotherapist

References/Further Reading

1. Physiopedia- excellent article on different walker types. Includes important information about paradoxical increased risk of falls in walker users, and reported benefits of increased mobility and independence.

https://www.physio-pedia.com/Walkers#:~:text=A%20walker%20is%20a%20walking,mobility%20or%20lower%20extremity%20impairment.

2. ADP -Government of Ontario program to help finance medical equipment including aids to mobility. Must apply and be assessed by an ADP-certified therapist (PT or OT).

https://www.ontario.ca/page/mobility-aids

3. Mayo Clinic – good detail on different walker types and safe use.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/multimedia/walker/sls-20076469

4. Medline (National Library of Medicine USA) – focus is on safe use. Links to other helpful articles.

https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000342.htm

Vendors

This is as incomplete list of vendors in the Toronto area. (Vendors included in this list are for your convenience, and do not represent a recommendation by Sian Owen Physiotherapy.)

LifeCare Mobility (authorized ADP vendor)

https://www.lifecaremobility.ca/wheeled-walkers-rollators-toronto/

HME (Home Medical Equipment)

https://www.hmemobility.com/walkers/

Vital Mobility - Bariatric Walkers

https://www.vitalmobility.ca/Products/Walkers/Bariatric-Walkers.php

InMotion Services

https://inmotionservices.ca/collections/walkers

Silver Cross

https://silvercrossstores.com/walkers-rollators/

Wellwise (Shoppers)

https://shop.wellwise.ca/search?type=product&options%5Bprefix%5D=last&options%5Bunavailable_products%5D=last&q=walkers&pf_t_category=category%3ARollators+%26+Walkers