Walking Aids

Walking Aid FAQs

• What is the best walking aid to help with balance?

  A rollator or four-wheeled walking frame gives you the most reassurance on your feet. Rollators have hand-operated brakes so you're always in control, while a walking frame provides four firm points of contact with the ground. If you just want a little extra confidence day-to-day, a quad stick is a great lightweight option.

• What is the best walking aid for staying sure-footed?

  It depends on where you want to feel more confident. Indoors, a walking frame provides excellent stability. Outdoors, a walking aid with a seat lets you rest along the way — useful on longer trips. All CareCo walking aids meet safety standards and many are recommended by our Occupational Therapist.

• What is the best walking aid for older people?

  It really depends on how active you are and where you'll use it. Lightweight rollators are a popular choice for those who enjoy getting out and about. Seated walking aids are ideal if you like to rest along the way. For everyday confidence at home, a walking frame works brilliantly. We'd always recommend visiting a showroom to try before you buy.

• How do I choose the right walking aid?

  Think about three things: where you'll use it, how much support feels right for you, and whether you need to store or transport it easily. Our walking aids buyers guide covers each type in detail, and our in-store team are always happy to help you find the perfect match.

• What's the difference between a rollator and a tri-walker?

  A tri-walker has three wheels, is lighter, and doesn't usually have a seat. Tri-walkers are easier to move through tight spaces,which is great for indoors or busy shops. A rollator has four wheels, offers more stability, and usually includes a seat and basket, making it ideal for longer days out. Both have hand-operated brakes for easy control.

• What is a seated walking aid?

  A seated walking aid combines a wheeled walking frame with a padded seat, so you can take a rest whenever you need to. They're perfect for anyone who enjoys getting out but likes the option to pause along the way. Most also include a handy shopping basket beneath the seat.

• What is a Zimmer frame?

  Zimmer frame is a common nickname for a walking frame — the simple, lightweight frames that provide four firm points of contact with the ground. Some models have wheels to glide smoothly as you walk, while others have four anti-slip rubber ferrules on the feet instead, meaning you lift and place the frame with each step. The ferrule option tends to suit those who need maximum stability and a very controlled pace, particularly indoors.

• What are the most modern walking aids available?

  Today's walking aids are a world away from traditional designs. Modern rollators come in beautiful colours, lightweight carbon fibre frames, and compact folding designs slim enough to fit in a car boot. If you want something that looks as good as it works, take a look at our designer rollators below.

• How much walking should a 70-year-old do each day?

  NHS guidelines recommend around 150 minutes of moderate activity per week for adults of all ages,which is roughly 20–30 minutes of walking a day. The right walking aid can make that much easier to achieve, giving you the confidence and support to get outside more often and enjoy it.

• Can you get walking aids on the NHS?

  The NHS can provide basic walking aids through your GP or physiotherapist, though the choice tends to be limited. Buying your own gives you far greater choice of style, weight, colour and design.

• Can I try a walking aid before I buy?

  Absolutely, we encourage it. All of our mobility showrooms stock the full range of walking aids, and you're welcome to try as many as you like with no pressure and no appointment needed. Our expert advisors are on hand to help you find the right fit, check handle heights, and make sure you feel completely comfortable before making any decisions. We're open 7 days a week.

• Are walking aid handles suitable for arthritic hands?

  Yes, the handles on our rollators and tri-walkers are ergonomically designed to be kinder to arthritic hands and wrists, reducing strain as you walk. The grips are shaped to distribute pressure more evenly, so you can focus on getting where you're going rather than discomfort in your hands.