Types of Walkers for Seniors: Which Mobility Aid Is Right for You?

As we grow older, it’s natural to seek a little extra support when walking. Whether it’s to feel more stable at home, prevent falls, or enjoy more time outdoors, walkers can make a big difference in your day-to-day life.

But not all walkers are the same. Some are better for stability, others are designed for comfort and longer distances. In this guide, we explain the main types of walkers—what they’re good for, who they’re best suited to, and what to look out for. We’ve also included real product examples from Altus, an Australian-owned provider of high-quality mobility aids.

1. Standard Walker (No Wheels)

Best for: Maximum support when walking short distances indoors.

A standard walker is the most basic kind of walking aid. It has four rubber-tipped legs and no wheels, meaning you must lift it slightly as you move forward. While this takes a bit more effort, it also gives you a very stable and solid feel, especially when you're moving on flat indoor surfaces.

Why choose this walker:

• It offers the highest level of stability, making it a great choice if you feel unsteady or are recovering from surgery.
• It's lightweight and easy to manage inside the home.
• There are no moving parts, so it's very reliable.

Things to keep in mind:

• You will need to lift it with each step, which can be tiring over time.
• It’s not ideal for outdoor use or rough terrain.

2. Two-Wheeled Walker (Front-Wheeled)

Best for: Seniors who need extra support but want easier movement than a lift-only walker.

A two-wheeled walker has wheels on the front two legs and rubber stoppers on the back. This means you can gently push it forward without having to lift it completely off the ground, making it easier on your arms and shoulders.

Why choose this walker:

• A great middle ground between a standard walker and a rollator.
• Helpful for those who can walk on their own but feel more secure with support.
• Glides easily on smooth floors, ideal for use at home or in shopping centres.

Things to keep in mind:

• Less stable than a no-wheel walker, but easier to move.
• Not designed for use on bumpy or uneven surfaces.

Here are some options from Altus:

Altus upright two-wheeled walker

 

3. Three-Wheeled Walker (Tri-Walker)

Best for: Seniors who want a lightweight, narrow-frame walker that’s easy to steer.

Three-wheeled walkers are compact and great for manoeuvring in tight spaces. They’re very lightweight and usually include a pouch or basket for personal items. Unlike standard walkers, they allow for a more natural walking motion.

Why choose this walker:

• Slim and easy to use in hallways, kitchens, and bathrooms.
• Often used for quick outings or when moving around indoors.
• Folds easily for transport or storage.

Things to keep in mind:

• They offer less support than a four-wheeled rollator.
• Not recommended for those who need full-time stability.

Here are some of our top choices from the Altus range:

Altus three-wheeled walker - Red

Altus three-wheeled walker - Blue

Altus three-wheeled walker - Black

 

4. Four-Wheeled Walker (Rollator)

Best for: Seniors who want to stay active and comfortable, both indoors and outdoors.

Rollators are some of the most popular walking aids. With four wheels, hand-operated brakes, a padded seat, and a built-in basket or storage pouch, these walkers are perfect for those who still enjoy walks in the park, visiting the shops, or spending time with family.

Why choose this walker:

• Easy to push and steer, even on outdoor paths.
• Comes with a comfortable seat so you can rest whenever needed.
• Provides extra confidence for longer outings or events.
• Many models fold up for easy storage or transport in a car.

Things to keep in mind:

• Not ideal if you need full-time balance support.
• Heavier than standard walkers, though still manageable for most users.

Explore the Altus range:

Altus Deluxe Rollator - Red

Altus Classic Walker with Seat – Blue

Altus Classic Walker with Seat – Teal

Altus Classic Walker with Seat – Red

 

5. Knee Walker (Knee Scooter)

Best for: Seniors or adults recovering from lower leg, foot, or ankle injuries.

A knee scooter is a helpful alternative to crutches. You place one leg on the padded support and use the other to push yourself forward. It allows you to stay mobile during recovery while keeping weight off your injured leg.

Why choose this walker:

• Offers comfort and mobility during recovery.
• Easier and less tiring than using crutches.
• Comes with a handlebar for steering and brakes for safety.

Things to keep in mind:

• Not intended for long-term or daily use by seniors with balance concerns.
• Requires enough strength and balance to steer and roll safely.

Altus Knee Scooter

 

How to Choose the Right Walker

Choosing a walker depends on your lifestyle, mobility, and comfort. Here are a few simple questions to ask yourself or a loved one:

• Do I feel steady when I walk around the house or outside?
• Will I use the walker mainly indoors, outdoors, or both?
• Do I want a seat to rest during longer walks?
• Can I lift or fold the walker if needed?
• Do I need a basket to carry items?

If you’re unsure, talk to a doctor or physiotherapist—or contact the Altus team for personal guidance.

Final Thoughts

A walker is more than just a mobility aid—it’s a way to maintain your freedom, confidence, and independence. Whether you’re looking for strong support at home or a comfortable companion for outings, there’s a walker to suit your needs.

Explore our full range of walkers and rollators today:
View Altus Walkers and Rollators

Let us help you take the next step with confidence