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Top 20 Walkers for Seniors

Date Updated: December 30, 2022

What You Should Know

  • According to the Centers for Disease Control, one in four seniors experience a fall every year, 20% of which result in serious injuries. Using a walker can greatly reduce the chances of a fall.
  • There is a wide variety of walkers on the market, making it easy for seniors to choose one that fits their style and needs.
  • Walkers can range in price from $29 for a very basic model to $850 for a very sophisticated device.
  • Financial aid through Medicare, Medicaid, and other programs is available for those who need to purchase a walker.

 

For seniors dealing with balance or mobility issues, walkers are a safe, flexible and cost-effective way to help maintain an active lifestyle. We compiled this list of the best basic, wheeled walkers and rollators to help you find the one that best fits your needs and budget. We analyzed product specifications, price, and customer reviews, and included descriptions and links for our top picks.

Walkers can be a game-changer for seniors struggling with reduced mobility, but they are not one-size-fits-all. Thinking about your specific needs and how you intend to use your walker will help ensure that you get the most out of your purchase. When selecting the best walker for you, there are several considerations.

  • Where, how, and for how long will you use your walker? This will help you determine if you need a rollator, which has four wheels and offers greater speed and comfort, or a basic or wheeled walker, which provides more support but less maneuverability.
  • What size walker do you need? Your walker must fit through doorways and hallways in your home, be transportable, and be adjustable to your height for safety and comfort.

We split our list into basic/wheeled walkers and rollators, so you can compare options and decide which is best for you. Please note that prices and availability are subject to change.

Best Rollators

1. NOVA Vibe 6 Rollator Walker, Purple

Price: See Amazon for Latest Price

image of NOVA walker

The NOVA Vibe 6 Rollator Walker is our top pick based on price, features, and customer reviews. Equipped with four six-inch wheels and feather-touch hand brakes, the Vibe 6 Rollator Walker provides a smooth, safe ride both indoors and outdoors. The frame is covered by a Lifetime Limited Warranty, and there is a 5-Year Warranty on all brake parts.

KEY FEATURES:

  • Lifetime Limited Warranty on frame
  • 5-Year Warranty on brake parts
  • Feather-touch hand brakes that require minimal hand strength to lock and unlock brakes
  • 2” thick padded seat
  • Storage pouch for personal belongings
  • Designed for users 5’4”-6’1”
  • Weight capacity: 300 lbs

2. Medline Premium Empower Rollator Walker

Price: See Amazon for Latest Price

image of Medline walker

The Medline Premium Empower Rollator Walker is chock-full of features like a thick, cushioned backrest, removable under-seat storage bag, cupholder, and memory foam seat with Microban antimicrobial technology to protect it from bacteria, mold, and mildew. The eight-inch wheels provide stability on all surfaces, and the walker folds up easily for storage and transportation.

KEY FEATURES

  • 8” wheels
  • Extra-wide memory foam seat
  • Seat folds up for more walking space
  • Seat, backrest, and handles feature Microban antimicrobial technology to protect it from stains and odors caused by bacteria, mold, and mildew
  • Designed for users 4’11”-6’4”
  • Weight capacity: 300 lbs

3. Drive Medical Nitro Euro Style Rollator Walker

Price: See Amazon for Latest Price

image of Drive walker

One of the more expensive walkers on our list, the Drive Medical Nitro Euro Style Rollator Walker does offer a lot of bang for your buck. The large front wheels increase turn radius, and the built-in brake cable offers extra safety and protection. The handle height and back support are easily adjustable for a custom-feeling fit, and you can collapse the chair with one hand by pulling up on the handle on the seat.

KEY FEATURES

  • Large 10” front casters allow for optimal steering and rolling comfort
  • Removable, adjustable back
  • Easy-to-clean nylon seat
  • Front storage pouch included
  • Easily collapsible and ultra-compact when folded
  • Adjustable handle height
  • Weight capacity: 300 lbs

4. Drive Medical Aluminum Rollator Walker

Price: See Amazon for Latest Price

image of Drive walker

The Drive Medical Aluminum Rollator Walker is a popular option for its durability and functionality. The six-inch non-marring wheels are great for indoor or outdoor use, and the serrated-edge brakes provide maximum safety. The hinged, padded backrest can be folded up, and a zippered pouch underneath the seat is perfect for securely storing personal items.

KEY FEATURES:

  • 6” wheels
  • Easy-to-use loop locks
  • Soft-grip tires with non-marring casters
  • Removable, hinged, padded backrest
  • Padded seat
  • Under-seat storage pouch
  • Adjustable handle height
  • Weight capacity: 300 lbs

5. Hugo Mobility Explore Side-Fold Rollator Walker

Price: See Amazon for Latest Price

image of Hugo walker

The Hugo Mobility Explore Side-Fold Rollator Walker is a great option for individuals on the go. This model’s side-folding frame design makes it easy to collapse for transportation, and at only 15.4 pounds, it’s one of the lighter four-wheeled walkers on our list. A padded built-in seat, contoured backrest, and ergonomic hand grips ensure a comfortable experience whether you are walking or sitting.

KEY FEATURES:

  • 8” wheels
  • Side-fold frame makes it easy to fold and store
  • Fits in most car trunks
  • Padded built-in seat, contoured backrest and storage pouch
  • Designed for users 5’-6’2”
  • Weight capacity: 300 lbs

6. Lumex Walkabout Lite Rollator

Price: See Amazon for Latest Price

image of Lumex walker

The Lumex Walkabout Lite Rollator was built with comfort and convenience in mind. The four-wheeled rollator has ergonomic, easy-to-use handles and brakes, and a lightweight aluminum frame that is easy to fold and carry. At under $100, it is a cost-effective solution for individuals with mobility issues.

KEY FEATURES

  • 6” wheels
  • Padded 14” seat
  • Removable padded backrest
  • Under-seat storage basket
  • Adjustable height
  • Weight capacity: 300 lbs

7. NOVA Traveler 3 Wheel Rollator Walker

Price: See Amazon for Latest Price

image of NOVA walker

This three-wheeled rollator is designed to be the “all-terrain vehicle” of rollators. Its narrow frame can fit through a variety of spaces, and the eight-inch all-terrain rubber tires are durable and made for indoor and outdoor use. This rollator comes with a lot of storage space, including a basket, zippered pouch, and a tray, but does not have a seat.

KEY FEATURES:

  • 8” wheels
  • Feather-touch hand brakes
  • 5-Year Warranty on all brake parts
  • Lifetime Limited Warranty on frame
  • Zippered pouch, basket, and tray
  • Designed for users 5’4”-6’2”
  • Weight capacity: 250 lbs

8. Hugo Elite Rollator Walker

Price: See Amazon for Latest Price

image of Hugo walker

The Hugo Elite Rollator Walker is ideal for individuals under five feet tall, who may have a hard time finding rollators of an appropriate height. The height on this rollator can be adjusted to accommodate users between 4’3” and 6’2”. The eight-inch swivel wheels glide smoothly on indoor and outdoor surfaces, and the padded seat and backrest offer a comfortable place to sit and rest. The tool-free assembly means you’ll be up and rolling in no time!

KEY FEATURES:

  • 8” wheels
  • Tool-free assembly
  • Padded seat and backrest
  • Ergonomic handles and easy-to-use brakes
  • Includes under seat storage bag and saddle bag
  • Designed for users 4’3”-6’2”
  • Weight capacity: 300 lbs

9. 4 Wheel Rolling Walker

Price: See Amazon for Latest Price

image of American Bantex walker

This simple yet sturdy walker offers a smooth ride with six-inch rubber tires and a comfortable resting place on its padded seat. The easy-to-use loop braking system ensures safety whether you’re indoors or outdoors, and when it’s time to move on, the rollator folds up so it can easily be stored or transported.

KEY FEATURES:

  • 6” wheels
  • Ergonomic handles and easy-to-use brakes
  • Padded seat
  • Rounded backrest
  • Under seat storage
  • Designed for users 5’4”-6’4”
  • Weight capacity: 300 lbs

10. Medline Heavy Duty Rollator Walker

Price: See Amazon for Latest Price

image of Medline walker

The Medline Heavy Duty Rollator Walker features a reinforced steel frame that can support up to 500 pounds.  The smooth-rolling eight-inch wheels allow you to get around easily on all indoor and outdoor surfaces. It also has a wide padded seat and a wider frame than most rollators. While these features are useful for larger bodies, it means it may not fit through all doorways and hallways.

KEY FEATURES:

  • 8” wheels
  • Heavy-duty reinforced steel frame
  • Wide padded seat
  • Under seat storage pouch
  • Adjustable height from 31.5”-37.5”
  • Wide frame (may not fit through all doorways)
  • Weight capacity: 500 lbs

Best Basic/Wheeled Walkers

11. Vive Folding Walker

Price: See Amazon for Latest Price

image of Vive walker

For someone who may not be sure if they need a wheeled or basic walker, the Vive Folding Walker is the best of both worlds. It comes with two five-inch wheels that can be added to the frame if necessary, or the walker may be used without wheels. This lightweight yet durable walker is adjustable between 33 inches and 40 inches and can support up to 250 lbs. It is an ideal, cost-effective walker for those who need support for balance or stability.

KEY FEATURES

  • Can be used with or without wheels
  • 60-day unconditional manufacturer’s guarantee
  • Soft, non-slip hand grips are contoured for comfort and safety
  • Comes with removable walker bag
  • Two-button release mechanism allows for easy folding, even for those with limited dexterity
  • Narrow frame fits through small doorways and hallways
  • Weight capacity: 250 lbs

12. Drive Medical Side Style Hemi One Arm Walker

Price: See Amazon for Latest Price

image of Drive walker

Designed to be used with only one hand or arm, this walker offers more stability than a cane, and can also be used by individuals who need minimal support. Lightweight and durable, the Drive Medical Side Style Hemi One Arm Walker folds easily and has adjustable handle height. This is an optimal choice for individuals who need a wider support base than a cane, but don’t need a full walker.

KEY FEATURES

  • No wheels
  • Can be used with only one hand
  • Weighs 4 lbs.
  • Weight capacity: 300 lbs

13. Drive Medical Trigger Release Folding Walker

Price: See Amazon for Latest Price

image of Drive walker

This two-wheeled walker is designed for those with limited finger dexterity. The walker’s trigger release allows the user to close the walker without removing their hands from the handle. The Drive Trigger Release Folding Walker is lightweight, weighing only seven pounds, and has soft, ribbed contoured hand grips and smooth-gliding five-inch front wheels.

KEY FEATURES

  • 5” front wheels
  • Easy-to-use trigger release
  • Soft, contoured hand grips
  • Adjustable height from 32”-39”
  • Weight capacity: 350 lbs

14. Medline 3-in-1 Stand Assist Walker

Price: See Amazon for Latest Price

image of Medline walker

This unique walker is well-suited for individuals who need help moving from a sitting to standing position. The bi-level handles allow the user to gradually progress from sitting to standing and vice versa. It can also be used as a toilet safety frame in the restroom when away from home. There are no wheels on this walker, so it’s best for users who only need minimal support.

KEY FEATURES

  • No wheels
  • Bi-level handles provide assistance with sitting and standing
  • Can be used as a toilet safety frame
  • Adjustable height for users 5’5”-6’4”
  • Weight capacity: 300 lbs

15. Vaunn Medical Two-Button Folding Walker

Price: See Amazon for Latest Price

image of Vaunn walker

This lightweight, two-wheeled walker is designed to fit into a suitcase, so it’s ideal for active seniors who love traveling! A two-button fast-push release system makes it easy-to-use for individuals with hand dexterity issues. The five-inch front wheels and back glider caps ensure a smooth ride on most terrains.

KEY FEATURES

  • 5” front wheels
  • Detachable sides mean the walker can be disassembled and stored in small places, like a suitcase
  • Weighs only 6.06 lbs
  • Vinyl contoured hand grips
  • Two-button fast-push release system for easy folding
  • Height adjustable from 30”-37”
  • Weight capacity: 300 lbs

16. Drive Medical Deluxe Two Button Folding Walker

Price: See Amazon for Latest Price

image of Drive walker

The Drive Medical Deluxe Two Button Folding Walker is an affordable, lightweight two-wheeled walker that provides stability for those with balance issues. The narrow, U-shaped frame makes it convenient to use indoors; each side operates independently to allow for easy navigation through doors and hallways. With a push-button mechanism for easy folding, and weighing only 7.5 pounds, this model is also ideal for travel.

KEY FEATURES:

  • 5” front wheels
  • Push-button mechanism for easy folding
  • Contoured hand grips
  • Cross-frame design for greater stability
  • Adjustable height 32”-39”
  • Weight capacity: 350 lbs

17. Able Life Space Saver Walker 

Price: See Amazon for Latest Price

image of Able Life walker

The Able Life Space Saver Walker is designed to fit through the narrowest of doorways and hallways. It is also only seven inches in diameter when folded, making storage and transportation a cinch. But this small, lightweight model is sturdy; it can support up to 400 lbs. The walker comes with two stationary front wheels; swivel wheels are sold separately.

KEY FEATURES:

  • 6” front wheels
  • Swivel wheels are sold separately
  • No assembly required
  • Easy to fold
  • Folds to 7” diameter
  • Weighs 8 lbs
  • Adjustable height from 32”-38.5” inches
  • Weight capacity: 400 lbs

18. Hugo Mobility 770-260 Adjustable Folding Walker

Price: See Amazon for Latest Price

image of Hugo walker

The Hugo Mobility Adjustable Folding Walker offers flexibility and functionality for an affordable price. The walker comes with two optional five-inch wheels, and the large rubber tips on the legs provide superior traction and control. Collapse the lightweight frame to store or transport, and use the two deluxe accessory bags to carry personal items when on the go.

KEY FEATURES:

  • Two optional 5” wheels included
  • Two storage pouches
  • Non-slip hand grips
  • Large rubber tips
  • Tool-free assembly
  • Designed for users 5’1”-6’4”
  • Weight capacity: 300 lbs

19. DMI Lightweight Aluminum Folding Walker

Price: See Amazon for Latest Price

image of DMI walker

If you have limited space or plan on taking your walker with you on the go, the DMI Lightweight Aluminum Folding Walker might be the model for you. When they say lightweight, they mean lightweight – this walker weighs only five-and-a-half pounds and is only four inches in diameter when collapsed. Made from anodized aluminum, it is sturdy enough to support up to 250 pounds, and the two five-inch front wheels provide a smooth ride.

KEY FEATURES:

  • 5” front wheels
  • Weighs 5 ½ lbs
  • 4” diameter when folded
  • Adjustable height from 32”-38”
  • Weight capacity: 250 lbs

20. Healthline Junior Folding Walker with Wheels

Price: See Amazon for Latest Price

image of Healthline walker

This is an ideal walker for short individuals, with a 25.5” floor-to-handle height setting. Its narrow width is also great for navigating tight spaces. This model can be used as a standard walker and comes with two five-inch front wheels and rear glide caps for increased mobility. Specially designed palm grips ensure user’s comfort and safety.

Key Features:

  • Optional 5” front wheels
  • Non-slip hand grips
  • Two-button folding mechanism
  • Adjustable height from 25.5”-32.5”
  • Weight capacity: 250 lbs

 

Financial Assistance for Seniors Buying Walkers

Walkers are devices that provide stability for those who struggle while walking. They come in a variety of sizes and styles. Seniors can easily find a walker that suits their personal needs, from walkers with wheels, adjustable-height walkers, and walkers that feature a seat.

 

The cost of purchasing a walker ranges greatly. Low-cost walkers with no wheels, limited adjustment, and no seat typically cost $29 to $50 in total. High-cost walkers that include wheels, adjustments, a seat, baskets, and more features can cost hundreds of dollars up to $850 in rare cases.

 

Walkers are considered durable medical equipment (DME). Medicare, Medicaid, and other health insurance programs provide coverage for DME. Seniors who use insurance to purchase a walker will likely need to pay a deductible or a coinsurance for the product. Some seniors may qualify for their walker to be covered in full.

Medicare Coverage for Walkers

Medicare Part A provides coverage for hospital stays and inpatient medical care. However, this doesn’t cover durable medical equipment. Fortunately, Medicare Part B covers outpatient services and items, including durable medical equipment.

 

Part B  covers 80% of the cost of approved durable medical equipment, leaving the beneficiary to cover the other 20% of the cost. To have a walker approved for Medicare Part B coverage, a beneficiary must:

 

  • Request a prescription for a walker from their primary care physician
  • Obtain the walker prescription from their doctor
  • Take their prescription to a Medicare-enrolled DME supplier
  • Choose an approved walker from the supplier
  • If applicable, pay a deductible plus 20% of the walker cost

 

While Medicare may provide some coverage for a walker, those who need one may want to explore other insurance options to help lower the overall cost.

Medicaid Coverage for Walkers

Medicaid is a supplemental health insurance program operated independently by each state in the United States. Every state provides different levels of coverage for durable medical equipment through waiver programs. Below is a list of DME waiver programs that can help cover the cost of a walker for seniors:

 

State Medicaid Coverage Waiver for Durable Medical Equipment State Medicaid Website State Medicaid Contact
Alabama The State of Alabama Independent Living (SAIL) Waiver

 

medicaid.alabama.gov 334-242-5000
Alabama The Alabama Community Transition (ACT) Waiver medicaid.alabama.gov 334-242-5000
Alaska Alaskans Living Independently Program ccralaska.org 800-780-9972
Alaska The Alaska Adults with Physical and Developmental Disabilities Waiver medicaid.gov 800-780-9972
Arizona Arizona LTC Services azahcccs.gov 855-432-7587
Arizona Arizona Self-Directed Attendant Care (SDAC) azahcccs.gov 855-432-7587
Arkansas The Arkansas Independent Choices Program humanservices.arkansas.gov 855-372-1084
California The California Medi-Cal Independent Senior Services Program Waiver (MSSP) dhcs.ca.gov 800-541-5555
California The California Medi-Cal Home and Community-Based Alternatives Waiver (HCBA) dhcs.ca.gov 800-541-5555
Colorado Not Available N/A 800-221-3943
Connecticut Connecticut Personal Care Assistance (PCA) N/A 800-842-1508
Delaware Delaware Diamond State Health Plan Plus dhss.delaware.gov 800-464-4957
District of Columbia Not Available N/A 202-645-4614
Florida The Florida Statewide Medicaid Managed Care (SMMC) Long-Term Care Program ahca.myflorida.com 877-711-3662
Georgia Not Available N/A 404-651-9982
Hawaii Not Available N/A 808-524-3370
Idaho The Idaho HCBS Aged and Disabled Waiver

 

doi.idaho.gov 877-456-1233
Illinois HealthChoice Illinois healthchoice.illinois.gov 800-843-6154
Illinois The Medicare-Medicaid Alignment Initiative (MMAI) illinois.gov 800-843-6154
Indiana The Indiana Aged and Disabled Waiver (A&D)

 

in.gov 800-457-4584
Indiana Indiana Structured Family Caregiving / Caregiver Homes in.gov 800-457-4584
Iowa The Iowa HCBS Elderly Waiver

 

medicaid.gov 855-889-7985
Kansas The Kansas HCBS Frail and Elderly Waiver

 

kdads.ks.gov 800-792-4884
Kentucky The Kentucky Supports for Community Living Waiver

 

chfs.ky.gov 800-635-2570
Louisiana The Louisiana Community Choices Waiver

 

lamedicaid.com 888-342-6207
Maine The Maine Older Adults and Adults with Disabilities

 

maine.gov 207-287-3707
Maine Maine Consumer-Directed Attendant Services

 

gtindependence.com 207-287-3707
Maryland The Maryland Community Options Waiver for Older Adults

 

health.maryland.gov 877-463-3464
Maryland Maryland Community Personal Assistance Services

 

health.maryland.gov 877-463-3464
Maryland The Maryland Medicaid Increased Community Services (ICS) Program 

 

mmcp.health.maryland.gov 877-463-3464
Massachusetts Not Available N/A 800-841-2900
Michigan The Michigan Choice Medicaid Waiver Program

 

michigan.gov 800-642-3195
Michigan The Michigan Medicaid Health Link Program

 

medicaidplanningassistance.org 800-642-3195
Minnesota The Minnesota Elderly Waiver Program

 

mn.gov/dhs 651-431-2700
Minnesota The Minnesota Community Access for Disability Inclusion Waiver

 

mn.gov/dhs 651-431-2700
Mississippi The Mississippi Independent Living Waiver

 

medicaid.ms.gov 800-421-2408
Missouri Not Available N/A 800-735-2466
Montana The Montana HCBS Waiver

 

dphhs.mt.gov 800-362-8312
Nebraska The Nebraska Aged & Disabled Waiver

 

dhhs.ne.gov 855-632-7633
Nevada The Nevada HCBW for Persons with Physical Disabilities

 

adsd.nv.gov 800-992-0900
New Hampshire The New Hampshire Choices For Independence Program

 

nhcarepath.dhhs.nh.gov 800-852-3345 Ext: 4344
New Jersey The New Jersey Personal Preference Program

 

state.nj.us 800-356-1561
New Mexico Not Available N/A 888-997-2583
New York The New York Managed Long Term Care Program Waiver (MLTC)

 

health.ny.gov 800-541-2831
New York The New York Community First Choice Option

 

health.ny.gov 800-541-2831
North Carolina The North Carolina Community Alternatives Program for Disabled Adults Waiver (CAP/DA)

 

medicaid.ncdhhs.gov 800-662-7030
North Dakota The North Dakota Aged and Disabled Waiver

 

nd.gov/dhs 800-472-2622
Ohio The Ohio PASSPORT Waiver

 

aging.ohio.gov 800-324-8680
Ohio The Ohio MyCare Plan

 

medicaid.ohio.gov 800-324-8680
Oklahoma The Oklahoma ADvantage Program Waiver

 

oklahoma.gov 800-522-0310
Oregon The Oregon K Plan

 

oregon.gov 800-527-5772
Pennsylvania The Pennsylvania Department of Aging (PDA) Waiver

 

dhs.pa.gov 800-692-7462
Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Services My Way

 

dhs.pa.gov 800-692-7462
Pennsylvania The Pennsylvania Physical HealthChoices Program

 

dhs.pa.gov 800-692-7462
Rhode Island The Rhode Island Global Consumer Choice Compact Waiver

 

ohhs.ri.gov 401-462-5300
South Carolina South Carolina Community Choices Waiver

 

scdhhs.gov 888-549-0820
South Dakota The South Dakota HOPE Waiver

 

dhs.sd.gov 800-597-1603
Tennessee The Tennessee CHOICES Program

 

tn.gov 800-342-3145
Texas The Texas STAR+PLUS Waiver

 

hhs.texas.gov 877-541-7905
Utah The Utah Aging Waiver

 

medicaid.utah.gov 800-662-9651
Utah The Utah Medicaid New Choices Waiver

 

medicaid.utah.gov 800-662-9651
Vermont The Vermont Global Commitment to Health Waiver

 

humanservices.vermont.gov 800-250-8427
Vermont The Vermont CFC Moderate Needs Group Services Program

 

asd.vermont.gov 800-250-8427
Virginia The Virginia Commonwealth Coordinated Care (CCC) Plus Waiver

 

medicaidplanningassistance.org 804-786-7933
Washington The Washington Community Options Program Entry System Waiver (COPES)

 

medicaidplanningassistance.org 800-562-3022
Washington The Washington New Freedom Program

 

dshs.wa.gov 800-562-3022
Washington The Washington Medicaid Alternative Care (MAC) Program

 

hca.wa.gov 800-562-3022
West Virginia Not Available N/A 800-642-8589
Wisconsin The Wisconsin Family Care and Partnership Program

 

dhs.wisconsin.gov 800-362-3002
Wisconsin The Wisconsin Include, Respect, I Self-Direct (IRIS) Program

 

dhs.wisconsin.gov 800-362-3002
Wyoming Not Available N/A 866-571-0944

 

Medicaid waiver programs can be expanded, added to, or removed at any time. Seniors should contact their state’s Medicaid office to discuss their need for durable medical equipment and to see if their state’s waiver program could cover the cost.

Veterans Resources for Walkers

Veterans Affairs offers a healthcare program for service members who wish to enroll. VA healthcare provides coverage for durable medical equipment and could cover some or all of the cost of a walker for a senior. Much like Medicare and Medicaid, seniors need to apply for DME and be approved. To apply, veterans must:

 

  • Receive a prescription from a VA-enrolled doctor
  • Request DME from the VA by filling out VA form 10-10172
  • If approved, a veteran can pick up their walker from a VA hospital or their local pharmacy

 

In some circumstances, DME can only be rented for a 30-day period. Veterans can request a continued rental or outright purchase depending on their long-term need for a walker. Veterans should speak with their prescribing doctor to discuss their long-term needs.

Additional Financial Assistance Resources for Walkers

If Medicare, Medicaid, or Veterans Affairs can’t cover the cost of a walker, seniors can explore other financial assistance options. Below are a few other possibilities for obtaining durable medical equipment, including walkers.

 

Private Insurance

Operating much like Medicare and Medicaid, private insurance provides a wide range of financial coverage for walkers. Seniors can purchase private insurance to supplement the other coverages they receive from the government. When shopping for private insurance, seniors should:

 

  • Look for coverage of durable medical equipment
  • Understand the plan’s deductible cost
  • Ensure that their primary care physician accepts the insurance

 

Private insurance plans vary greatly from one program to another. Exploring the details and asking questions before applying can help a senior find the coverage they need for all of their medical needs.

Second-Hand and Thrift Stores

Thrift stores are a great option for seniors looking to purchase a walker. People regularly donate a wide range of products to second-hand stores, including medical devices and equipment. While the items may be used, these stores test their products for durability before making them available for purchase.

 

Most cities have several thrift shops, so seniors can visit many different stores to find a walker that fits their needs. Calling ahead to see what is available can also be helpful.

Nonprofit Organizations

Many nonprofits strive to provide durable medical equipment to seniors and those with disabilities. Here are just a few organizations that could provide free or inexpensive walkers to seniors with mobility issues:

 

  • Hope Haven International Ministries works to obtain, repair, and distribute wheelchairs and mobility equipment to those who need it most. The program operates throughout the world.
  • Pass In On Center works to provide resources to those who have a need for assistive technology. Seniors can explore its website to search for the DME they need.
  • Matthew 25 Ministries obtains gently used products, repairs them, and distributes them to those most in need. Seniors may be able to obtain a walker for free.

GreenDrop is a division of the American Red Cross. They collect used medical equipment and make the items available for those most in need.