Canes, Walkers and Wheelchairs – Top Choices for 2024
Have you ever heard someone say, “There’s a storm coming. I can feel it in my bones”? Probably more than a few times. And did you also notice that it was usually an older person that made the prediction? Well, it stands to reason because one of the foremost consequences of aging is a deterioration in the skeletal structure. Joints become stiffer, bones lose mass and become brittle and, overall, everything just moves a little more slowly and carefully.
Now, the average person may be tempted to think that the various inventions that preserve our independence when we start encountering mobility challenges are solely thanks to modern technology. This is not the case. Interestingly, the first evidence of a very basic type of wheelchair dates back to 1300 BC. Fast-forward to 1924, when the first electric wheelchair appeared. And then, in the 1960s and 1970s, we saw a whole explosion of devices to assist with balance and mobility. Nowadays, the range of products is mind-boggling.
In this edition of the product showcase series, we’ll be looking at a selection of mobility devices, from the most basic canes to the most elaborate wheelchairs. Each person’s situation is unique thanks to the degree of mobility impairment, financial means and habitual environment. We hope, in this article, to help you make the best choice for the device that meets your specific needs.
Canes and Walkers
We start with canes and basic walkers. These are the simplest options, the lightest and least expensive assistive devices, and they’re ideal for people with a low level of mobility impairment or who just need a “third leg” to help them keep their balance.
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Best Seller - McKesson Round Handle Cane, Aluminum |
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It doesn’t get much simpler than this. Also known as a walking stick, the cane has been used for thousands of years and it’s even been used as a status symbol. Made from sturdy 7/8-inch extruded aluminum tubing, this is a lightweight cane, but it can support users up to 300 lbs. It features a push-button to adjust the height from 28-3/4 to 37-3/4 inches. The rounded handle makes it easy to hang the cane out of the way and is also suitable for small hands. |
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Customer’s Choice - McKesson Small Base Quad Cane, 30 to 39 Inch Height |
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The McKesson Small Base Quad Cane combines the stability of a four-legged cane with the maneuverability of a standard cane. This makes it a great choice for individuals who need extra support while walking but also value ease of movement. The cane adjusts from 30 to 39 inches in 1-inch increments using a user-friendly push-button mechanism. Made with a combination of a 7/8-inch aluminum shaft and a steel base, this cane offers a good balance between lightweight maneuverability and durability. It can support weights of up to 300 pounds. |
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Newest Addition - Drive Foldable Adjustable Tripod Cane Seat |
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The best of both worlds, the Drive Foldable Adjustable Tripod Cane Seat is designed to provide both comfortable support while walking and a convenient resting place when needed. The lightweight aluminum construction ensures it's easy to carry and maneuver, while the tripod base provides enhanced stability compared to a standard cane. With a simple unfolding mechanism, the cane transforms into a comfortable seat with a padded surface. The height is adjustable with a push-button system, and some models also offer adjustable seat height. Drive Foldable Adjustable Tripod Cane Seats support weights up to 250 lbs. |
Rollators
A little way higher up the price scale, we have rollators or rolling walkers. They’re similar to basic walkers but have four wheels for easier maneuvering. Users propel themselves forward by pushing on the handles, similar to a shopping cart. Most rollators have brakes on the handles for stopping and slowing down. They often include features like adjustable handles, seats for resting, and storage baskets, and they’re ideal for those who need significant support but also want ease of movement and the ability to rest from time to time.
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Best Seller - McKesson Lightweight 4-Wheel Rollator Walker |
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The McKesson Lightweight 4-Wheel Rollator Walker offers superior stability and support without compromising on maneuverability. It features a durable yet lightweight aluminum frame, weighing in at only 13 pounds. It folds conveniently, allowing you to store it in a car trunk or closet when not in use. The handles are height adjustable to optimize posture and reduce strain on the shoulders and back. The seat and backrest are padded for comfort, and loop locks keep the rollator stationary when you need to take a break. It also has two convenient storage pouches. |
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Customer’s Choice - Drive Nitro Aluminum 4 Wheel Rollator, Black, 10" Casters |
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The Drive Nitro Aluminum 4 Wheel Rollator is a stylish mobility aid that helps you maintain independence and confidence while you walk. Its durable yet lightweight aluminum frame makes it easy to maneuver both indoors and outdoors. With 10-inch casters, it rolls smoothly on most terrains, including sidewalks and uneven surfaces. The Nitro features height-adjustable handles with a unique push-button mechanism for a comfortable and secure grip, reducing strain on wrists and arms. The rollator offers convenient, one-hand folding for compact storage and transportation. Loop brakes on the handles ensure easy control over stopping and slowing down. |
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Newest Addition - BodyMed Aluminum Rollator with 6-inch Wheels |
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The BodyMed Aluminum Rollator with 6-inch wheels is a practical and budget-friendly mobility aid option. It features a durable, lightweight aluminum frame, making it easy to maneuver. Four 6-inch wheels provide smooth rolling on most flat surfaces but may not handle rough terrain as well as larger ones. The handles can be adjusted with a push-button mechanism to ensure proper posture and avoid discomfort or back strain. Loop brakes on the handles make it easy to slow down or stop. A soft seat and padded backrest allow you to sit comfortably when you need to rest. |
Wheelcairs
Wheelchairs are mobility devices designed for people with limited or no leg mobility. They provide a comfortable and supportive seat with wheels, allowing users to move around independently or with assistance. Wheelchairs can be manual, propelled by the user using hand rims mounted on the rear wheels, or they can be electric.
Wheelchairs offer many different combinations of features, but most will usually have a lightweight construction, adjustable seats and armrests, and footrests that fold away. Some may have brakes or be foldable. This makes it a little difficult to choose the best one for you, so we hope this will give you some insight.
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Best Seller - McKesson Standard 20" Wheelchair with Swing away Footrests and Detachable Desk Arms |
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The McKesson Standard 20" Wheelchair is a dependable manual wheelchair featuring a strong, lightweight carbon steel frame with a textured, silver-vein finish. With a 20-inch seat width, this wheelchair is ideal for users of average size. The footrests can be easily detached or swung away to the side without tools, and the armrests can be removed to allow for closer positioning to tables or desks. Urethane tires mounted on composite wheels offer a smooth ride on most indoor and outdoor surfaces. The durable and lightweight vinyl upholstery is easy to clean and requires little maintenance. |
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Customer’s Choice - McKesson Lightweight Red Aluminum Transport Chair |
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The McKesson Lightweight Red Aluminum Transport Chair is designed for easy transport of patients or people with temporary mobility impairment. The durable yet lightweight aluminum frame, weighing 19 pounds, makes the chair easy to maneuver and transport. It folds compactly with a simple two-step mechanism for convenient storage. The chair has a 19-inch wide nylon seat that is breathable and easy to clean. The footrests can be easily removed or swung outwards without tools. A built-in seat belt provides added security for the user during transport. Solid, 8-inch caster wheels offer smooth rolling on most surfaces and provide stability while parked. |
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Newest Addition – McKesson Reclining 18" Wheelchair with Detachable Desk Arms |
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This may just be the Rolls Royce of wheelchairs. The McKesson Reclining 18" Wheelchair with Detachable Desk Arms is feature-rich and provides exceptional comfort, functionality, and adaptability. A hydraulic mechanism allows smooth and effortless reclining adjustments up to 180 degrees. The seat is super comfortable thanks to the lightweight and breathable padded nylon upholstery. The leg rests have calf pads and can be swung away or elevated for ultimate comfort and easier transfers. The padded arms can be easily removed when sitting at a table. Urethane tires on composite wheels provide a smooth and quiet ride on most surfaces, both indoors and outdoors. |
We’ve presented here, a selection of the top picks from our extensive range of mobility aids. Some of them require a substantial investment and may also incur maintenance costs over time. The choice can be confusing, and mistakes very costly. To discuss the product best suited to your unique needs, talk to us at LL Medico. We can take a call at (855) 422-4556, or you can email [email protected] . And remember, delivery is fast and free.
