FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do all walkers fold?
Although most walkers fold, not all traditional mobility walkers do. The primary purpose of traditional walkers is to be a simple, inexpensive alternative to hybrid walkers, rollators, or wheelchairs. As a result, some traditional walkers may lack the folding capability to reduce the cost.
On the other hand, all rollator walkers on the market fold up quickly and easily. You may need to lift the seat on some models to fold them. But the entire process only takes a few seconds. If you prefer the simplicity of a traditional walker, online medical suppliers like Allegro Medical offer sturdy, ultralight, foldable, and inexpensive traditional walkers like the Two-Button Folding Walkers without Wheels.
What is the typical maximum weight capacity of a folding walker?
Most standard folding walkers have a maximum weight capacity of 300 pounds. Some standard folding walkers can support up to 350 pounds. However, bariatric folding walkers can handle as much as 700 to 1,000 pounds.
Whether you use a standard or bariatric folding walker, you should factor in the weight of attachments like oxygen tanks, drinks, or supply pouches. These walker accessories can decrease the weight tolerance of your walker. As a result, you should consider your overall weight when choosing a folding walker.
How much weight will folding bariatric walkers support?
Most bariatric walkers like the McKesson Aluminum/Steel Bariatric Folding Walker have a maximum weight capacity of over 500 pounds. But some heavy-duty bariatric walkers have up to a 1,000-pound weight capacity. At the same time, bariatric walkers provide large users the same enhanced mobility and support as smaller walker users. Also, these bariatric mobility aids support the user's body weight and accessories.
When you shop for a bariatric walker, you should also ensure the seat width and height can accommodate the user's girth and height. Some heavy-duty walkers have adjustments that extend too extra wide or extra tall.
How do you fold a rollator?
Although rollators come in various designs, you can easily fold them in a few steps. These folding wheel walkers come in two styles: traditional and side-to-side. The traditional model requires you to lift the seat flap and pull the crossbar until the front and back wheels touch.
To fold a side-by-side folding rollator, stand behind it and pull up on the handle in the middle of the seat. This action joins the sides in one easy motion before securing the fold with a clip. Since side-by-side folding rollators remain locked in place until you unfold them, lightweight models like the Stander EZ Fold and Go Walker make great travel companions.
Does Medicare cover folding walkers?
Since folding walkers qualify as durable medical equipment, Medicare covers them under Medicare Part B. But your request for coverage must satisfy a few requirements. The first requirement is you must show proof that the folding walker is necessary for diagnostic purposes or as a treatment for an injury, illness, condition, or disease.
To verify your medical need for the folding walker, you must present a written subscription for your folding walker from a doctor enrolled in the Medicare plan. In addition, the doctor and folding walker retailer must be Medicare participants. After you qualify, Medicare will determine whether you should buy or rent the folding walker.
What types of features can you find on folding walkers?
The different types of folding walkers offer unique features along with the standard ones. For example, the rollator folding walkers can feature air pressured brakes, synchro steering, bigger wheels, and a storage compartment. Other walkers may offer a Hemi height, rise-assistance, more comfortable grips, and glider forearm rests. Also, some traditional folding walkers have two front wheels, like the McKesson Adult Aluminum Folding Walker with 5" Wheels.
What are folding walkers made of? Are they sturdy?
Most folding walkers get their strength from durable aluminum frames that enable them to consistently support a maximum weight capacity of up to 300 pounds for many years. To help keep you steady and connected, folding walkers have gel, rubber, or foam comfort grips. Also, rubber caps typically cover the tips of the walker's legs.
MEDICAL ADVICE DISCLAIMER
The information, including but not limited to text, graphics, images, charts, and any other material on this site, is intended for informational purposes only and does not take the place of medical guidance provided by your physician. No information on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult a qualified medical professional about your condition or circumstances before undertaking a new healthcare regimen.