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Various mobility aids

Selecting the Right Mobility Aid


The Buyer's Guide to Carex Mobility Aids


Trying to decide on a mobility aid? Our buyer's guide breaks down the essentials of each.

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Are you or a loved one struggling to move around? Did you know over 6.8 million US adults use a mobility device?

The ability to move freely from one location to another, known as mobility, is crucial for everyday life. It is vital for independent living, social engagement, physical and mental well-being, personal safety, and overall quality of life.

However, decreased mobility, or a lack thereof, can substantially impact one's ability to live independently and age in place. Mobility aids can play a crucial role in retaining independence.

What is a Mobility Aid?

A mobility aid is a device that assists individuals with limited mobility in performing everyday tasks and moving around. These aids are tailored to specific needs and abilities and are available in various types.

There is a range of mobility devices available, including:

  • Canes
  • Crutches
  • Knee Scooters
  • Lifting Seats
  • Walkers
  • Rollators
  • Transport Chairs
  • Wheelchairs

You may wonder, "Which mobility aid is right for me?"

The answer will vary based on your level of mobility, existing conditions, and more. Because each provides a different level of mobility assistance, making the right choice is crucial. This guide can simplify your decision-making process by outlining the advantages of each option, their intended purposes, and who should refrain from each.

What to Consider Before Purchasing a Mobility Aid

A graphic of a hand and a person in various positions

Individual Needs and Mobility Requirements

When choosing a mobility aid, it's vital to assess the needs and mobility requirements of the person using it. Factors to consider include:

  • Their walking ability: Can they walk, and for how long?
  • Balance levels: Do they pose a significant fall risk?
  • Upper body strength: Can they lift their mobility aid if needed?
A graphic of a person walking

Physical Capabilities and Limitations

The person's physical abilities and limitations will dictate what device to choose and avoid. It's essential to consider factors such as:

  • Strength
  • Coordination 
  • Range of motion 
  • And endurance.

For example, a walking cane is ideal for someone who needs balance support but may not work for someone who cannot walk or poses a significant fall risk. A rollator offers walking support from both sides but requires more balance than a walker. Those with more major balance issues may need a walker instead.

Additional tip: Consider having an Elderly Mobility Scale test done with your healthcare provider or caregiver. This test consists of various exercises designed to idenfity mobility levels and areas you may struggle with. This can be key to choosing the correct mobility aid.

A graphic of a home, a sun and clouds, and trees

Environment (indoor, outdoor, terrain)

When choosing a mobility tool, it's essential to assess the environment of the person using it. Look at the home, noting:

  • Stairs
  • Tight spaces 
  • Doors 
  • And other obstacles that could affect mobility.

Remember to consider common places like parks, workplaces, and stores that the person may visit, as these can pose challenges. Considering these factors will ensure that the right mobility tool is selected.

A graphic of various modes of transportation

Portability and Transportation Options

It's important to consider how portable the mobility aid needs to be. Suppose it will be taken out often or on trips. In that case, consider the weight, whether it can be folded, and whether it will fit in a vehicle or be easily stored during travel. It's often common to have two mobility aids: one for everyday use and another for travel.

A weight icon graphic

Weight Capacity and Dimensions

Choosing a mobility aid that can support the user's weight is essential to ensure safety and comfort. Consider the mobility aid's size and dimensions to ensure it fits the user's body size and proportions.

A graphic of a person with height arrows

Accessibility Features and Adjustability

Look for accessibility features that may be important for the user, such as adjustable seat heights or armrests, removable footrests, or storage bag options. These features can enhance comfort, accessibility, and adaptability to different situations.

A graphic of money

Cost, Insurance Coverage, and Budget

To ensure the mobility aid is affordable for the individual, it's crucial to assess its cost and fit it within their budget. You can also explore insurance coverage options, like Medicare or private insurance, to find financial assistance. Remember to take into account not only the initial cost but also any potential ongoing maintenance expenses.

Mobility Aid Comparison Chart

To help you make the right decision, we’ve created a short and concise comparison of each mobility assistive device so you can compare them side-by-side.

Walking Canes

Useful for:

  • ✔️ Improving balance and stability while walking
  • ✔️ Relieving pressure on joints
  • ✔️ Compensating for an injury or disability on one side of the body
  • ✔️ Conserving energy and reducing the effort needed to walk
  • ✔️ Reducing the risk of falls
  • ✔️ Helping users to stand

Might Benefit those:

  • ✅ With arthritis
  • ✅ With minor balance or stability issues
  • ✅ With a disability that impacts one side of the body
  • ✅ Recovering from an injury that affects one side of the body
  • ✅ Recovering from a stroke

Avoid if you:

  • ❌ Lack upper body strength
  • ❌ Have severe balance issues (are a significant fall risk)
  • ❌ Need support from both sides
  • ❌ Cannot or barely walk

Crutches

Useful for:

  • ✔️ Keeping weight off of one foot, ankle, or knee
  • ✔️ Added support and stability

Might Benefit those:

  • ✅ Recovering from surgery
  • ✅ With temporary injuries that require them to keep weight off of one side
  • ✅ In active physical therapy to rehabilitate an injury

Avoid if you:

  • ❌ Lack upper body strength
  • ❌ Have severe balance issues
  • ❌ Have both upper and lower limb injuries
  • ❌ Cannot put weight on both legs
  • ❌ Need a longer-term mobility solution

Knee Scooters

Useful for:

  • ✔️ Keeping weight off of one foot, ankle, or knee
  • ✔️ More stability and comfort than crutches
  • ✔️ Quick and efficient mobility

Might Benefit those:

  • ✅ Recovering from foot or ankle surgery
  • ✅ With temporary injuries that require them to keep weight off of one side
  • ✅ Without enough upper body strength to use crutches

Avoid if you:

  • ❌ Are on a tighter budget
  • ❌ Need to maneuver tight spaces, stairs, or uneven terrain
  • ❌ Require mobility assistance for an extended period Have a knee injury

Walkers

Useful for:

  • ✔️ Improving balance and stability while walking 
  • ✔️ Providing support for both sides of the body 
  • ✔️ Reducing the risk of falls 
  • ✔️ Helping users to stand

Might Benefit those:

  • ✅ With significant balance or stability issues 
  • ✅ With a high fall risk 
  • ✅ Recovering from surgery and need full-body support 
  • ✅ With adequate upper body strength to lift the device

Avoid if you:

  • ❌ Have weakness in your upper body, arms, or hands 
  • ❌ Have severe balance issues 
  • ❌ Cannot bear weight on your legs 
  • ❌ Are limited in dexterity or grip strength (to pick up the walker)
  • ❌ Need a mobility aid for narrow or confined spaces

Rollators

Useful for:

  • ✔️ Improving balance and stability while walking
  • ✔️ Providing support for both sides of the body
  • ✔️ Reducing the risk of falls
  • ✔️ Quick and efficient mobility

Might Benefit those:

  • ✅ With significant balance or stability issues
  • ✅ Recovering from surgery and needing support on both sides of the body
  • ✅ Who have problems lifting a walker
  • ✅ Who tire quickly while walking and regularly need a place to rest

Avoid if you:

  • ❌ Need to place much of your body weight on it, opt for a walker or wheelchair instead. 
  • ❌ Have severe balance issues Are limited in dexterity or grip strength
  • ❌ Cannot bear weight on your legs

Lifting Seats

Useful for:

  • ✔️ Support when sitting and standing 
  • ✔️ Relief from strain on joints 
  • ✔️ Assisting caregivers with transfers 
  • ✔️ Quick and efficient mobility

Might Benefit those:

  • ✅ With limited upper or lower body strength 
  • ✅ With arthritis With Parkinson's disease or other degenerative diseases 
  • ✅ Recovering from surgery 
  • ✅ Who need assistance transferring patients

Avoid if you:

  • ❌ Have severe physical dependence
  • ❌ Don't have a stable and even surface to place it on
  • ❌ Have severely limited upper body strength and range of motion
  • ❌ Need a device to lift you from a wheelchair

Wheelchairs

Useful for:

  • ✔️ Independent mobility without walking
  • ✔️ Support of entire body weight
  • ✔️ Comfortable long-term support
  • ✔️ Relief from pain and protection from further injury

Might Benefit those:

  • ✅ Who have trouble walking or are unable to walk
  • ✅ Who tire quickly while walking or cannot walk long distances
  • ✅ With paralysis or musculoskeletal issues
  • ✅ With broken bones or injuries to the legs or feet
  • ✅ With balance or gait problems With neurological issues

Avoid if you:

  • ❌ Can walk independently or with minimal assistance
  • ❌ Have limited storage or space to move around (non-wheelchair accessible)

Transport Chairs

Useful for:

  • ✔️ Support of full body weight
  • ✔️ Relief from pain and protection from further injury
  • ✔️ Mobility during travel and short trips 
  • ✔️ Easy portability

Might Benefit those:

  • ✅ Who cannot propel themselves
  • ✅ Who have trouble walking or are unable to walk
  • ✅ Who tire quickly while walking or cannot walk long distances
  • ✅ In need of a wheelchair on a part-time or temporary basis
  • ✅ In need of a more portable aid for short trips and traveling

Avoid if you:

  • ❌ Do not have someone who can push you while in use
  • ❌ Need a long-term solution
  • ❌ Need to navigate uneven terrain
Walking Canes Provide one-sided walking support Improve balance Reduce fall risk Assist in sitting or standing

Walking Canes

If you have minor injuries or issues with balance and mobility, using a cane can be helpful for support while walking. These walking assistance devices are available in various styles and designs that offer different benefits. Canes are some of the lightest types of mobility aids and are easy to carry around.

Useful for:

  • ✔️ Improving balance and stability while walking
  • ✔️ Relieving pressure on joints
  • ✔️ Compensating for an injury or disability on one side of the body
  • ✔️ Conserving energy and reducing the effort needed to walk
  • ✔️ Reducing the risk of falls
  • ✔️ Helping users to stand

Might benefit those:

  • ✅ With arthritis
  • ✅ With minor balance or stability issues
  • ✅ With a disability that impacts one side of the body
  • ✅ Recovering from an injury that affects one side of the body
  • ✅ Recovering from a stroke

Avoid if you:

  • ❌ Lack upper body strength
  • ❌ Have severe balance issues (are a significant fall risk)
  • ❌ Need support from both sides
  • ❌ Cannot or barely walk
SHOP WALKING CANES

Choosing the Right Walking Cane

Single vs. Quad Tip

Generally, canes are available in two tip options: single-tip and quad-tip. While tripod cane tips are also an option, they are less commonly used.

The single-tip cane is the most standard tip option. It provides all the support for many with minor mobility issues. However, quad-tip canes offer more stability than single-tip canes because they distribute the user's weight over a wider area rather than resting it all on a single point.

A 2018 study found that quad-tip canes significantly improve steadiness compared to single-tip or tripod-tip canes. While this type of cane can be bulky and harder to store, it can stand independently. It may provide stability for those with a high fall risk and more significant balance issues, such as those recovering from a stroke.

Handle Type

When selecting a cane, there are several handle types to choose from. It's essential to consider the level of comfort needed and any aesthetic or convenience preferences.

Some of the most common handle options include:

  • Round: This option is the most common and traditional one. Its classic appearance and convenience of attaching it to a chair or doorknob when not in use make it popular. However, it can be uncomfortable and difficult to grip, so individuals with conditions like arthritis should opt for a different handle type.
  • Derby: The thicker and curved handle of this cane offers greater comfort compared to the regular round handle. It's especially helpful for those with arthritis. Still, it's also a popular choice for all cane users because it's easy to grip and comfortable to hold.
  • Offset: This cane has a curved shaft that places the handle along the length of the cane, evenly distributing the user's weight. The padded handle helps reduce strain on the wrist and provides a comfortable grip.
  • Ergonomic: Certain canes feature an ergonomic handle to provide a comfortable grip and minimize hand fatigue and shock. It's worth noting that some derby or offset canes may also come equipped with ergonomic handles.
Crutches Keep weight off of one foot, ankle, or knee , further details are provided below.

Crutches

Crutches can be most beneficial for those with temporary injuries that keep them from putting weight on their foot, ankle, or knee. They offer more support than canes but require more upper-body strength and coordination.

Useful for:

  • ✔️ Keeping weight off of one foot, ankle, or knee
  • ✔️ Added support and stability

Might benefit those:

  • ✅ Recovering from surgery
  • ✅ With temporary injuries that require them to keep weight off of one side
  • ✅ In active physical therapy to rehabilitate an injury

Avoid if you:

  • ❌ Lack upper body strength
  • ❌ Have severe balance issues
  • ❌ Have both upper and lower limb injuries
  • ❌ Cannot put weight on both legs
  • ❌ Need a longer-term mobility solution
SHOP CRUTCHES

Choosing the Right Crutches

Design

There are two different types of crutches to choose from, underarm and forearm, and knowing what each style provides and requires from you can help you decide which kind is best for you.

Underarm Crutches

These are the standard, most common crutches that rest under your armpits. While they require upper body strength, they require less strength than forearm crutches. They are typically easier to use but can be uncomfortable because they press against the body and can cause the user to slouch. Because of this, they are more often suitable for those who need crutches for only a short period.

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Forearm Crutches

Forearm crutches are more often suitable for long-term crutch users. This is because they take more upper body strength and coordination, which can take time to build up. They also tend to be more comfortable than underarm crutches, with forearm cuffs that reduce strain and pressure from the wrist and a design that requires good posture to be used efficiently. Other design variations, including folding crutches for easy storage and different colors or cushion types, may affect your choice.

Read More

Size

You will want to ensure that your crutches are made to fit your height and are comfortable and safe to use. Crutch sizes and height ranges will vary depending on the distributor.

Knee Scooters Keep weight off of one foot or ankle Provide more stability & comfort than crutches Keep hands free to use

Knee Scooters

Knee scooters offer a cushioned place to rest your leg, ankle, or foot while recovering from surgery or injury. They are a more comfortable and stable alternative to crutches that allow your arms and hands to remain accessible for daily tasks and let you move around efficiently.

Useful for:

  • ✔️ Keeping weight off of one foot, ankle, or knee
  • ✔️ More stability and comfort than crutches
  • ✔️ Quick and efficient mobility

Might benefit those:

  • ✅ Recovering from foot or ankle surgery
  • ✅ With temporary injuries that require them to keep weight off of one side
  • ✅ Without enough upper body strength to use crutches

Avoid if you:

  • ❌ Are on a tighter budget
  • ❌ Need to maneuver tight spaces, stairs, or uneven terrain
  • ❌ Require mobility assistance for an extended period Have a knee injury
SHOP KNEE SCOOTERS
Walkers Provide two-sided walking support,  further details are provided below.

Walkers

Walkers provide stability to those who need help walking due to a risk of falls or significant balance issues. With four legs, they offer firm support to place most of your body weight into rather than only one side, like with canes. Many walkers are also foldable and easy to transport.

Useful for:

  • ✔️ Improving balance and stability while walking 
  • ✔️ Providing support for both sides of the body 
  • ✔️ Reducing the risk of falls 
  • ✔️ Helping users to stand

Might benefit those:

  • ✅ With significant balance or stability issues 
  • ✅ With a high fall risk 
  • ✅ Recovering from surgery and need full-body support 
  • ✅ With adequate upper body strength to lift the device

Avoid if you:

  • ❌ Have weakness in your upper body, arms, or hands 
  • ❌ Have severe balance issues 
  • ❌ Cannot bear weight on your legs 
  • ❌ Are limited in dexterity or grip strength (to pick up the walker)
  • ❌ Need a mobility aid for narrow or confined spaces
SHOP WALKERS

Choosing the Right Walker

Standard vs. Wheeled

The most widely used walkers are the standard ones, with four legs that provide steady support on the ground. They allow you to lean on the walker for complete body support. You need to lift them to move them, so users should have enough upper body strength.

If you lack the upper body strength to lift a standard walker, a wheeled walker may be a helpful option. These walkers are a hybrid of rollators and walkers, with two legs equipped with wheels. However, it's important to note that you may be unable to put as much weight into them as standard walkers.

Single vs. Dual Button

Walkers usually come with two different options: single button and dual button. Single-button walkers close all at once with that one button so that they can be folded for transportation easily with one hand.

On the other hand, dual-button walkers have two buttons that allow the walker to be closed one side at a time. This benefits individuals who prefer to close only one side of the walker and utilize the other for support. However, closing the walker entirely requires both hands, making it more challenging for those with limited dexterity. In such cases, a single-button walker may be a more convenient option.

Hemi Walkers

A hemi walker is like a cane as it supports only one side of the body but has four legs that provide broader coverage. If you need to alleviate pressure on one side of your body and require more stability than a cane, a hemi walker may be a better option.

Walker Accessories

Apart from various types of walkers, several add-ons can enhance your walker's efficiency and convenience. Some of these add-ons are:

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Wheels

If you have been using a standard walker, but your upper body strength weakens, and you cannot lift your walker, you don't have to buy a whole new one. You can instead purchase walker wheel attachments, which are easy to slide onto the front legs of a standard walker.

Read More

Glide Caps

Glide caps are a more durable alternative to the tennis balls you often see people place on the legs of their walkers. They help your walker slide more smoothly over most surfaces. They are typically used on wheeled walkers or in conjunction with wheel attachments.

Read More

Platform Attachment

Walker platform attachments are helpful for those with poor dexterity or weakened arms. They allow you to place your weight on your arm rather than your hand. They attach to one side of the walker and typically have a comfortable strap to keep your arm in place and a handle for added stability.

Read More

Basket

Walker baskets conveniently allow you to carry and store items which can be helpful, especially for those who run errands with their walker. Many options include metal baskets with trays, canvas baskets, tote bags, and organizers. All typically attach to the front of the walker.

Read More

Resources to Make Choosing Easier

Rolators Provide two-sided walking support,  further details are provided below.

Rollators

If you're looking for a more accessible option than a traditional walker, rollators could be a great choice. They don't require lifting and are easier to push. Rollators usually come with swivel casters for easy maneuvering and brakes for added safety. Additionally, they have a padded seat that provides a comfortable resting spot for those who tire easily while walking. Some rollators even have storage space beneath the seat for convenience.

Useful for:

  • ✔️ Improving balance and stability while walking
  • ✔️ Providing support for both sides of the body
  • ✔️ Reducing the risk of falls
  • ✔️ Quick and efficient mobility

Might benefit those:

  • ✅ With significant balance or stability issues
  • ✅ Recovering from surgery and needing support on both sides of the body
  • ✅ Who have problems lifting a walker
  • ✅ Who tire quickly while walking and regularly need a place to rest

Avoid if you:

  • ❌ Need to place much of your body weight on it, opt for a walker or wheelchair instead. 
  • ❌ Have severe balance issues Are limited in dexterity or grip strength
  • ❌ Cannot bear weight on your legs

Please remember that rollators have wheels on each leg, making them less stable and unable to support as much body weight as walkers. Rollators are not designed for transportation purposes. Suppose you require a mobility aid to keep most of your body weight. In that case, it is recommended to consider a standard walker or wheelchair for safety.

SHOP ROLLATORS

Choosing the Right Rollator

Four-Wheel Rollators

These are the most common types of rollators. They feature four rolling wheels with two swivels in the front and two fixed in the back. Compared to a three-wheel rollator, these offer better support but are less ideal for maneuvering due to their wider size.

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Three-Wheel Rollators

These mobility aids feature a single swiveling wheel on the front and two fixed on the back. They tend to be slimmer and more compact for easier maneuvering but offer less support than four-wheel rollators.

Read More

Bariatric Rollators

A bariatric rollator might be the perfect option if you require significant support. These rollators are sturdier than regular ones, with larger wheels and a heavy-duty build. They can support up to 500 lbs. in weight capacity.

Rollator Transport Chair Hybrid

These devices serve as both a transport chair and a rollator, allowing the user to walk independently or be pushed by a caregiver. They are an excellent option for individuals recuperating from surgery or injury.

Read More

Resources to Make Choosing Easier

lifting seats , Provide sitting and standing support , further details are provided below.

Lifting Seats

Lifting seats are devices to help someone stand up or sit down. They are placed over chairs and make a great cost-effective alternative to traditional lifting chairs. They are easily transportable, making them suitable for use in any chair or sofa, whether at home or in public.

Useful for:

  • ✔️ Support when sitting and standing 
  • ✔️ Relief from strain on joints 
  • ✔️ Assisting caregivers with transfers 
  • ✔️ Quick and efficient mobility

Might benefit those:

  • ✅ With limited upper or lower body strength 
  • ✅ With arthritis With Parkinson's disease or other degenerative diseases 
  • ✅ Recovering from surgery 
  • ✅ Who need assistance transferring patients

Avoid if you:

  • ❌ Have severe physical dependence
  • ❌ Don't have a stable and even surface to place it on
  • ❌ Have severely limited upper body strength and range of motion
  • ❌ Need a device to lift you from a wheelchair
SHOP LIFTING SEATS

Choosing the Right Lifting Seat

These are typically available in either electric or self-powered options. Electric lifting seats are powered by batteries or electricity and can be operated with a lever or remote. They provide 100% lift assistance, so they might be the right option for those who need significant help sitting and standing.

On the other hand, self-driving lifting seats are powered by a hydro-pneumatic gas spring and automatically activate as you stand. Because they don't require batteries or electricity, they can be used anytime and anywhere, even outdoors. However, they only usually provide around 70 to 80% lift assistance.

Although lifting seats can be helpful, they only support the lower body. For maintaining balance while sitting and standing, it is advisable to use them in combination with other aids like canes or walkers. It's important to note that lifting seats should not be used with wheelchairs as the chair may move while the seat is in use.

Wheelchairs Provide independent mobility without walking , further details are provided below.

Wheelchairs

For individuals who have difficulty walking or tire quickly, wheelchairs can be a helpful mobility aid. The user can operate them if they have sufficient upper body strength or be pushed by someone else. Wheelchairs are customizable and available in various designs to cater to requirements.

Useful for:

  • ✔️ Independent mobility without walking
  • ✔️ Support of entire body weight
  • ✔️ Comfortable long-term support
  • ✔️ Relief from pain and protection from further injury

Might benefit those:

  • ✅ Who have trouble walking or are unable to walk
  • ✅ Who tire quickly while walking or cannot walk long distances
  • ✅ With paralysis or musculoskeletal issues
  • ✅ With broken bones or injuries to the legs or feet
  • ✅ With balance or gait problems With neurological issues

Avoid if you:

  • ❌ Can walk independently or with minimal assistance
  • ❌ Have limited storage or space to move around (non-wheelchair accessible)
SHOP WHEELCHAIRS

It can be challenging to decide when it's time to use a wheelchair. There is often the misconception that only those who cannot walk and need full-body support daily should use a wheelchair. Still, there are many reasons someone might utilize this aid.

Some people, for example, still use a walker or cane and are part-time wheelchair users, only using it on particularly 'bad days' or in situations where they would otherwise have to stand for long periods or walk long distances. Others may be capable of walking, but it is challenging and causes more pain than it is worth, so they turn to a wheelchair for the necessary relief.

To determine if you should use a wheelchair, consider how much you struggle with day-to-day tasks and how much you may miss out on due to your illness, injury, or disability. Suppose your pain or fatigue makes daily living difficult and keeps you from enjoying or partaking in things you want. In that case, you may find a wheelchair helpful.

Choosing the Right Wheelchair

Standard Manual Wheelchairs

Standard wheelchairs sometimes referred to as K1, are the most common wheelchairs and are often the most inexpensive. They usually fit the average person and accommodate the basic needs of a wheelchair user, including being able to be self-propelled.

Hemi Wheelchairs

Hemi wheelchairs, sometimes called K2, allow the chair's seat-to-floor height to be adjusted lower to accommodate shorter users whose feet may dangle over the ground. Hemi wheelchairs can also be helpful for those who wish to propel their wheelchair using their feet.

Lightweight Wheelchairs

Lightweight wheelchairs, sometimes called K3, are around 35 to 38 pounds compared to the standard wheelchair's 41 to 43 pounds. These can be helpful for full-time users because they are lighter and easier to self-propel, preventing strain and further injury.

High-Strength Lightweight Wheelchairs

High-strength lightweight wheelchairs, sometimes called K4, provide many of the same benefits as lightweight wheelchairs. In addition, they are more durable and typically feature more adjustment possibilities for those needing additional customization.

Bariatric Wheelchairs

Bariatric wheelchairs, sometimes called K7, accommodate more users with a higher weight capacity and larger seat dimensions. For example, our K7 wheelchairs have weight capacities between 450 to 600 pounds, seat widths between 22 to 28 inches, and seat depths of 18 and 20 inches. They are also hemi-height adjustable.

Reclining Wheelchairs

Reclining wheelchairs allow the user to recline in their chair if preferred or necessary safely. Our reclining wheelchair features a 90 to 160 degrees backrest and a removable padded headrest for added reclining comfort.

Resources to Make Choosing Easier

Transport Chairs , Provide independent mobility without walking, further details are provided below.

Transport Chairs

Transport chairs are similar to wheelchairs aiding those with difficulty walking or tire quickly. However, transport chairs are more lightweight, portable, and meant to be pushed by another person. They have smaller wheels than traditional wheelchairs, making them easier to maneuver and transport. They are typically used for shorter periods, such as running errands or traveling.

Useful for:

  • ✔️ Support of full body weight
  • ✔️ Relief from pain and protection from further injury
  • ✔️ Mobility during travel and short trips 
  • ✔️ Easy portability

Might benefit those:

  • ✅ Who cannot propel themselves
  • ✅ Who have trouble walking or are unable to walk
  • ✅ Who tire quickly while walking or cannot walk long distances
  • ✅ In need of a wheelchair on a part-time or temporary basis
  • ✅ In need of a more portable aid for short trips and traveling

Avoid if you:

  • ❌ Do not have someone who can push you while in use
  • ❌ Need a long-term solution
  • ❌ Need to navigate uneven terrain
SHOP TRANSPORT CHAIRS

Choosing the Right Transport Chair

Choosing a transport chair is somewhat similar to selecting a standard wheelchair. You should check that its width suits the passageways it needs to go through and that the seat and back measurements are comfortable and safe.

Weight

Because transport chairs are intended to be a more lightweight and portable alternative to wheelchairs, you'll want a transport chair that will be easy for you or a companion to lift in and out of a car. While all transport chairs are 'light,' you might prefer a lighter aluminum transport chair rather than a heavier steel one.

Wheel Size

All transport chairs have smaller wheels than wheelchairs, but their wheel sizes can vary. Consider what terrain you may use your transport chair on; larger wheels are easier to use over rough terrain.

Transformer Wheelchair

If you are a full-time wheelchair user who needs a transport chair for short trips, a transformer wheelchair could be a great choice. These wheelchairs have large back wheels like a regular self-propelled wheelchair, but with a "quick release" function that allows them to be easily removed. Beneath the standard wheels, there are smaller wheels like those found on a typical transport chair, making it a versatile option.

If you need both a standard wheelchair and a transport chair but lack space or budget for both, this option can be helpful.

Resources to Make Choosing Easier

About the Author

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Stephanie Schwarten is a freelance writer and editor with a Bachelors degree in Professional Writing. She specializes in content marketing as well as both developmental and copy editing. 

About Carex Health Brands

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Carex is your one-stop shop for home medical equipment and for products that assist caregivers with providing the best possible support and care for their loved ones. Carex Health Brands has been the branded leader in in-home, self-care medical products for over 35 years. Our goal is to improve the lives of our customers by bring them quality products that bring dignity back to their lives. With our three nationally distributed brands, Carex Health Brands serves national, regional and independent food, drug and mass retailers along with wholesalers, distributors and medical dealers.

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