Zimmer frame’ is a generic term that describes light-weight, four-legged walking aids. First invented by the medical company Zimmer Biomet, zimmer frames help to stabilise and protect users from falling whilst walking. If you need help staying upright when walking around; a walking frame or ‘Zimmer frame’ is the way to go. There is a wide range of walking frame accessories available for both folding and non-folding frames. Most of these accessories are designed for storage, including caddy trays, baskets and bags. There isn’t any difference between walking frames and Zimmer frames. Zimmer is a brand of walking frame – a bit like the Hoover is a brand of vacuum cleaner. There are so many different types of Zimmer frames available to suit a variety of people and homes. They are a solid, strong, reliable, and hard-wearing aid that can often reduce the risk of falls when used correctly.

Zimmer frames tend to be used by people who have reduced and limited walking ability and who require quite a lot of stability and support when they walk and move around. They can often be seen in people’s homes, hospitals and care homes, and there is a huge selection available. The Main Types Of Walking Frames Walking Frames offer more help to the user in standing upright, if you feel this is right for you, then a walking frame would be a good option.If the individual has trouble with balance, a wheeled walker may not be the best option. The wheels could increase their risk of a trip or fall. Rollators should not be used to actively support body weight, as they are liable to slipping out from under the individual if too much weight is unnecessarily put onto the frame. However, they do sport very practical hand-operated brakes if the user needs to use these. Walking frames offer support for people when they’re walking around both indoors and outdoors. They provide stability and balance to those who are a little less steady on their feet. Folding Zimmer frames can come without wheels, or have two wheels, or four. The set-up depends on the person using the mobility aid and their ability to walk, and how much support they require. Many of these walking aids are height adjustable, too. Replacements are available in different diameters from hardware shops, chemists, mobility shops and online. To stay safe, replace them regularly.

For example, keep it close to your bedside. You face a greater risk of falling and injury if you walk unassisted to get your zimmer frame from another room. By keeping it nearby, you will have support almost immediately as you begin your day. Are spare parts available for my Zimmer frame? A walker with only wheels is known as a rollator. They are generally more suited to getting around outside the home as the large air-filled tyres can cope better on uneven surfaces and are easier to manoeuvre than two-wheeled walkers.There are also glide skis available that are used to replace non-slip ferrules and to help reduce wear and tear on floor surfaces and carpets ensuring a smooth, gliding motion. The non-wheeled version is more stable than a narrower, wheeled Zimmer frame. Although they are potentially harder to manoeuvre around the home. Often, having a wheeled walking frame is easier however, for some people, the wheels may make the frame move too fast for them. Level Of Grip Traditionally, walking frames, or Zimmer frames, have often been used in hospitals and care homes however, as an occupational therapist, I increasingly see people using these walking aids in their own homes.

But if you already know what you're looking for then here are some popular retailers that sell walking aids. If you don’t require too much support when walking and are steadier on your feet – a wheeled walker/ rollator is the better option. with a physical or mental impairment which has a long-term and substantial adverse effect upon his/her ability to carry out everyday activities; However, if balance isn’t such an issue, and the wheeled walker is just used for aiding to walking, wheeled walkers are the way to go. For people with balance problems, a walking frame is recommended for stability. However, we wouldn’t advise using a walking frame to travel longer distances. They are best for indoor use and short outdoor journeys e.g. around the garden.Generally, walking frames are used by people who may be recovering from an injury. Or if someone is having some difficulties with balance when staying mobile. They can fit into smaller areas, such as public transport, car boot and/or the corner of smaller homes, when not in use. These mobility aids have four sturdy, height-adjustable legs, easy to grip handles, and are straightforward to fold and re-assemble. Not all of our products are eligible for VAT relief, so we are obliged to charge VAT for those products even after you complete this form.

Hi everyone, it’s Kate here, Ability Superstore’s resident Occupational Therapist, or OT. My subject for this guide is the humble Zimmer Frame – a really helpful walking aid that has been around for years. If you're interested in buying or renting walking aids or other mobility aids, it's worth discussing your options with your GP, an occupational therapist or physiotherapist. Zimmer frames are also ideal for use indoors. If you don’t feel stable on your feet, using a zimmer frame can give you more confidence while completing your daily tasks. How do I adjust a Zimmer frame for the best fit?Do you need a wheeled zimmer frame to accommodate your reduced strength? Our domestic zimmer frames with wheels are the perfect fit. Designed with high-tensile seam welded aluminium, these models are durable, lightweight and easy to use. What accessories can be used with a Zimmer frame? However, the reason Zimmer frames are so popular is because they are very light weight and the frame is adjustable. Wheeled walkers are fitted with 4-wheels. They come in lots of different configurations and provide stability whilst still being easy to move.