The main choice is between a standard walker and a wheeled rollator. A standard frame without wheels, or with two front wheels, gives the most support for someone who leans heavily or is recovering from surgery. A rollator rolls on four wheels with hand brakes and a seat, which suits someone steady enough to walk at a normal pace and wants to rest along the way.
Think about where it'll be used. In older downtown and Aldershot bungalows, narrow hallways and bathroom doors may favour a slimmer frame. For walks by the lake or in Spencer Smith Park, larger wheels roll better over paving stones and gravel. Winter is the real test here, so check how the wheels handle slush and whether the rollator folds small enough to fit in the car for appointments at Joseph Brant Hospital.
Prioritize a retailer who sets the handle height properly and teaches your parent to use the brakes. A walker at the wrong height causes stooping and sore wrists. Look for brakes that lock easily, a seat that feels solid, and a weight rating that suits the user. Ask about the warranty on the brakes and frame and whether the store does adjustments for free.
In our experience, a fitted walker for seniors from a local medical supply store is worth more than a cheaper box from a big online seller. The trade-off is a slightly higher price for proper adjustment and someone to call. Ask a physiotherapist or OT first if falls have already happened, because a standard walker may be the safer start. Burlington families often check stores in Oakville or Hamilton too, which appear on this page.