James from Florida wrote in saying, “I’m trying to stay active, but I can’t get around without a walking aid anymore. What would you recommend? I need one that’s good for outdoors. Will I need a different one for indoor use?”

For outdoor use we recommend rollators, also called rolling walkers. Unlike traditional walkers, they have wheels on all four legs, making it easy for them to traverse uneven terrain. Plus, they allow you to move around faster than walkers and most include a built in seat if you get tired.

While you don’t necessarily need two mobility aids, many people in your position find it easier to have two. Some of the most popular combinations are—

4 Wheel Rollator1. A Rollator and a Cane

As mentioned, a rollator is ideal for outdoor use. But they’re not always perfect for indoor use. If your hallways or bathroom doors are narrow, you may have trouble navigating through them with a rollator. Also, if you have stairs, it can get tiring to lug your rollator up and down—despite the many lightweight rollators available.

Canes however can fit through anywhere, are very lightweight and are one of the cheapest mobility aids out there.

2. A Walker and a Transport Chair

This is a good combo for someone who needs a lot of assistance. Walkers are fairly narrow and therefore great for indoor use, if a cane no longer provides enough stability.

For outdoor use you can use a transport chair, also called a transport wheelchair.Rollator/Transport Chair These allow you to be pushed so you can continue to spend time outdoors. Unlike standard wheelchairs, transport chairs are small and lightweight and can easily fit in the trunk of a car.

3. Rollator/Transport Chair

This combination item offers the benefits of a 4 wheel rollator and a transport chair all-in-one. The owner can use it as a traditional rollator and then, if they get tired, sit down and be pushed. Plus, it’s cheaper than buying a rollator and transport chair separately.

Congratulations on maintaining an active lifestyle. We hope one of these combinations can help!