As mobility challenges become more common with age, finding the right walking aid becomes more important.
Whether it’s due to conditions like arthritis, balance issues, or recovery from surgery, mobility aids play a big role in helping seniors maintain independence and reducing their risk of falls.
Seniors have a ton of options to choose from these days and the platform walker stands out as a unique tool designed to address specific mobility and support needs.
But what exactly is a platform walker and is it the right choice for seniors?
Well, that’s what we’re here to find out.
In this article, we’ll discuss what makes a platform walker distinct, explore its advantages/disadvantages, and discuss whether it might be the right choice for seniors facing mobility challenges.
After reading, seniors and caregivers alike will know everything they need to in order to make the right decision regarding these devices.
What Exactly Is a Platform Walker?
A platform walker is a type of walking aid that features an elevated platform to support the forearms, in addition to traditional walker grips.
Unlike standard walkers, which require users to hold handles directly, platform walkers distribute weight through the forearms, reducing strain on the wrists and hands.
This design makes it particularly beneficial for individuals with conditions that affect hand strength, grip, or joint stability, such as arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, or recovery from injuries.
Platform walkers can also be used by folks that’ve had strokes, making it impossible for them to hold the walker with one of their hands.
In these cases, seniors may want to opt for a platform attachment that can be added to a standard walker, allowing them to rest one forearm on the walker while grasping the handle with the unaffected hand.
Below is an example of what I’m talking about here…
Detachable platforms are convenient because it allows seniors to use platforms when necessary and then convert back to a standard walking as needed.
It also allows the senior to convert a walker they may already own into a platform walker without having to purchase a completely different device.
Plus, buying platforms separately is usually a lot more affordable.
The key components of a platform walker include:
- Platform Arm Supports: Cushioned surfaces where the forearms rest, often equipped with straps to secure the arms in place.
- Adjustable Height Settings: Allows customization to match the user’s body dimensions.
- Wheels or Standard Feet: Depending on the model, platform walkers may have wheels for easier movement, rubber tips for more stability, or a combination of both.
Benefits of Using a Platform Walker
For seniors who face challenges with traditional walkers or other mobility aids, platform walkers offer several advantages:
Reduced Joint Strain
By transferring weight from the hands to the forearms, these walkers reduce strain on the wrists, fingers, and hands.
This makes them ideal for individuals with arthritis or weak grip strength or for folks who lack the ability to grasp a traditional handle.
Improved Posture
Additionally, platform walkers may promote better posture by encouraging users to stand upright rather than hunching over, which can lead to reduced back pain over time.
That said, using a platform walker doesn’t automatically improve posture.
I’ve worked with plenty of patients over the years that invested in a platform walker with the goal of improving posture that were disappointed that the device didn’t instantly fix their problem.
It’s true, an upright or platform walker can help promote better upright posture, but it’s still on the individual using it to make sure they use it correctly.
It’s possible to hunch forward with a platform walker too.
Improved Mobility
For those recovering from surgeries, strokes, or managing conditions like Parkinson’s disease, these walkers can improve mobility and allow them to move around more safely and confidently.
By combining comfort, stability, and ergonomic support, platform walkers can provide a practical solution to maintain independence and improve overall quality of life.
Downsides of Using a Platform Walker
While platform walkers can be incredibly beneficial, they also come with certain downsides that may make them unsuitable for some seniors.
Bulky
One notable drawback is their bulkier design compared to standard walkers or canes, which can make them harder to maneuver in tight spaces or transport in vehicles.
Adding platforms to a standard walker also tends to add additional weight to the device, making it more challenging to move around.
A Little Awkward
Additionally, the elevated arm supports may feel restrictive or uncomfortable for some users, particularly those who are unaccustomed to relying on their forearms for support.
Like any assistive device, platform walkers take a little time to get used to, especially for folks who’ve never used a walker before.
More Expensive
Platform walkers also tend to be more expensive than traditional walkers, which can be a barrier for seniors on a fixed income.
Prices for platform walkers vary greatly depending on the brand and type of walker, but best case, you can expect a platform walker to cost about 2x as much as a standard walker.
For example, if you were purchasing a platform separately to add to a walker you already own, you can expect to spend anywhere from $45 – $80 for the platform alone.
And a traditional walker with platforms included can easily run you $90 or more.
Possible Reliance
Platform walkers tend to provide a little more stability and support than traditional walkers, which could become a downside in the long run.
This is because the increased stability and support might lead some users to develop a reliance on the device, potentially slowing the progress of physical rehabilitation or weakening other muscle groups over time.
Now this can be negated with proper use and physical therapy, but it’s still a possible concern to be aware of.
Who Should Consider a Platform Walker?
Platform walkers are not a one-size-fits-all solution. They are best suited for seniors who:
- Have limited grip strength or pain in one or both hands/wrists.
- Require additional stability due to balance issues.
- Are recovering from surgeries or injuries affecting their ability to grasp walker handles.
- Experience chronic conditions that limit their ability to use traditional walkers or canes.
- Are unable to grasp traditional handles in one or both hands for any other reason.
However, not all seniors will benefit from a platform walker.
Those who are able to manage well with a standard walker, cane, or rollator may not require the extra support a platform walker provides.
Consulting a healthcare professional or physical therapist is essential to determine if a platform walker meets an individual’s needs.
Tips for Using a Platform Walker Safely
Using a platform walker correctly is really no different than using any other kind of walker.
The only real difference between a platform walker and a traditional walker/rollator is that you support yourself with your forearms instead of grabbing handles.
Otherwise, it’s all about keeping the assistive device close enough to your body and maintaining proper posture while walking.
And yes, I realize that it’s a lot easier said than done.
Anyway, consider the following when using a platform walker:
- Get the Right Fit: Ensure the walker’s height and platform adjustments are set to match your forearm length and body posture.
- Practice Proper Form: Keep your elbows at a comfortable angle and avoid leaning too far forward or backward.
- Secure the Arm Straps: If the walker has straps, use them to prevent your arms from slipping off the platforms.
- Use on Flat Surfaces: Avoid uneven terrain or stairs unless the walker is specifically designed for such use.
- Seek Professional Guidance: A physical therapist can provide training on how to use the walker correctly and safely.
Platform Walkers vs Upright Walkers
Both platform walkers and upright walkers are designed to address specific mobility challenges, but they usually cater to different needs and preferences.
Platform walkers are ideal for individuals who require support for their forearms due to limited grip strength or wrist pain.
They allow weight distribution through the forearms, making them particularly useful for those with arthritis or recovering from upper limb injuries.
Upright walkers, on the other hand, are designed to promote an upright posture by positioning the handles higher, allowing users to walk without bending forward.
This design is particularly beneficial for those looking to reduce strain on the lower back and improve overall posture.
Upright walkers often come with ergonomic hand grips, a lightweight frame, and added features such as a built-in seat or storage pouch, making them a more versatile option for daily activities.
However, they may not provide the same level of forearm support as platform walkers and might not be suitable for users with significant upper limb limitations.
Even writing this out, I realize how similar these two devices sound and in some cases, they really can be describing the same kind of walkers.
This might just be an exercise in semantics, but upright walkers tend to come with hand brakes and seats, basically making them rollators with higher handles/platforms.
Platform walkers, on the other hand, can be of the rollator style or the traditional walker style.
Another way of thinking about it – all upright walkers are platform walkers, but not all platform walkers are upright walkers.
Final Thoughts
Ok, I hope I didn’t confuse anybody with the last section there comparing upright and platform walkers.
Especially since a lot of brands use the two terms interchangeably.
The main takeaway here is that platform walkers allow individuals to support themselves with their forearms in cases where it’s not possible for them to grasp the walker handles.
That’s really it.
A platform walker can be a game-changer for seniors who can’t grab a handle for one reason or another and it’s great that they come in so many styles.
By reducing strain on the hands and wrists and promoting better posture, it offers a practical and comfortable solution for maintaining independence.
However, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider to determine if a platform walker is the right choice for you or your loved one.
If you have any questions or comments, just leave ’em below and I’ll get right back to ya.
