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2004 est

Walking Frames & Accessories

Zimmer frames and walking frames help many people retain their mobility and independence. By using walking frames, elderly people or younger people with certain health conditions can sometimes improve their mobility both around the home and outside. These frames are typically made of aluminium - lightweight and easy to move for those with reduced strength. A walking frame with wheels or a folding walking frame are other options also available at Essential Aids.

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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a walking frame?

A walking frame is a mobile metal frame which provides support to someone as they walk.

They have a box-like construction, with handles at the top and four ferrule-capped feet at the bottom.

Walking frames offer mobile support as someone moves from A to B.

Who might use a walking frame?

People who have difficulty walking unaided often use walking frames.

This may be because of a specific injury, illness, disability or while they recover from injury.

Walking frames for elderly people are standard mobility aids for people in the UK.

Do walking frames have front wheels?

They are available with or without front wheels.

There are also kits available enabling you to fit wheels to a compatible non-wheeled frame.

Can I adjust the height of my walking frame?

Most frames come with simple height adjustment mechanisms in each leg.

This allows each leg to be lengthened or shortened to the desired size.

The frames do come in different sizes, so check the height adjustment range of the model you are interested in before choosing.

Are there walking frames for heavier people?

Yes, there are 'bariatric' walking frames which have a user weight limit of 35 stone.

These are larger and much stronger than standard lightweight aluminium models.

The standard weight limit for 'hospital' walking frames or regular zimmer frames tends to be 25 stone.

It is important to check the details of the product description before choosing one.

Are walking frames easy to manoeuvre?

Almost all walking frames are made from aluminium because of its rigidity, strength and weight.

They do require some strength and coordination to operate safely.

I don't have much space - can I still use a walking frame?

If you have narrow doorways or halls to negotiate, you may need to consider a narrow walking frame.

The ultra-narrow walking frames at Essential Aids may be a suitable choice.

With a width of 9cm (19.5 inches) at the maximum leg extension (the legs splay wider, the more they extend) it is narrow enough to be used in tight spaces.

What is the difference between a walking frame and a rollator?

Regular light-weight aluminium walking frames are the silver looking models you will be used to seeing.

Some versions have small wheels at the bottom of the front legs, while the standard frames have plastic or rubber feet (called ferrules) capping each leg.

This type of frame is typically used indoors, over relatively short distances.

Rollators (often called wheeled walkers) are more substantial and robust.

While many people do use them indoors, they are best suited for outdoor use.

They are larger than regular walking frames, have bigger wheels, brakes and in some cases seats and baskets or bags.

Rollators with three wheels are common, as our four-wheeled models.

The latter tend to be less manoeuvrable but slightly more stable than three wheelers.

Both kinds can be folded up, so they can be easily stowed away for transportation or storage.

While both types of walking aid assist in walking from A to B, a rollator is more suited to outdoor use, like trips to the shops.

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