Introduction: Why Choosing the Right Walking Aid Matters
Walking aids play a crucial role in rehabilitation, mobility, and independence for children, adults, and seniors with physical challenges. Selecting the correct aid ensures safety, proper posture, and effective mobility development.
Two commonly used walking aids are gait trainers and walkers. While they may look similar, each serves a distinct purpose in supporting mobility and therapy goals. Understanding the differences helps families, carers, and therapists make informed decisions for their loved ones or clients.
What Is a Gait Trainer?
A gait trainer is a specialised walking aid designed to provide maximum support for users who are learning to walk or need assistance in walking safely.
Key features include:
- Supportive harnesses or trays for posture and weight distribution
- Adjustable frame to fit different sizes
- High stability for children or adults during rehab
- Ability to encourage correct walking patterns and therapy exercises
Gait trainers are particularly useful for children with developmental delays, neurological conditions, or adults recovering from injury or surgery.
For more information, see our Gait Trainer category.
What Is a Standard Walker?
A standard walker is a mobility aid designed to provide basic support for standing and walking. Key characteristics include:
- Four legs with rubber tips or wheels for stability
- Lightweight and often foldable for transport
- Designed for users who can bear some weight independently
- Used in homes, aged care facilities, or rehabilitation settings
Walkers are ideal for adults or seniors who require stability for short distances but do not need full support or gait training features.
Check our Store for a range of walkers.
Key Differences Between Gait Trainers and Walkers
Feature | Gait Trainer | Standard Walker |
Purpose | Rehabilitation, gait training, posture support | Basic mobility, stability, support for walking |
Design | Harness, tray, adjustable frame, posture support | Lightweight, foldable, no harness, basic support |
Support Level | High – full body or trunk support | Moderate – supports hands and arms, minimal trunk support |
User Group | Children, adults in therapy, NDIS clients | Seniors, adults with mild mobility limitations |
Adjustability | Highly adjustable for therapy needs | Limited adjustability for height |
NDIS Eligibility | Often NDIS funded for therapy and rehab | May be funded if medically necessary |
Benefits of Gait Trainers
- Promote correct walking patterns
- Provide full support for children or adults learning to walk
- Adjustable to suit growth and therapy progression
- Safe for home, school, and clinical use
- Useful for intensive physiotherapy or rehabilitation
Benefits of Walkers
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Foldable for storage and transport
- Provide stability for independent walking
- Affordable and practical for seniors and adults with mild mobility challenges
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
Which Option Is Right for You?
Choosing between a gait trainer and a walker depends on:
- Age and size of the user
- Mobility level and physical strength
- Rehabilitation or therapy goals
- Support needs (full body vs. hand/trunk support)
- Funding eligibility through NDIS or SWEP in Victoria
For children or adults requiring therapy, a gait trainer is usually the preferred choice. Seniors or independent adults may benefit more from a walker for everyday mobility.
NDIS and Funding Options for Walking Aids
Many gait trainers and mobility walkers are eligible for NDIS funding in Victoria. This includes:
- NDIS gait trainer options for children and adults
- Gait trainer walker hire or purchase for therapy
- Occupational therapist assessments for eligibility
Families can contact Assistive Tech Hub for guidance on NDIS-funded walking aids and home trials to ensure proper fit and support.
Recommended Product
A versatile option is the Gait Trainer Walker, which combines stability, posture support, and adjustable features suitable for children and adults in rehabilitation.
See our full Gait Trainer category for other options.
Conclusion
Gait trainers and walkers each serve important but different roles in mobility support. While gait trainers provide therapy-focused, full-body support, walkers offer stability for independent movement. Selecting the right aid depends on age, mobility needs, therapy goals, and funding options. For personalised guidance, families and carers can contact Assistive Tech Hub to arrange advice or a home trial.
FAQs
- Can gait trainers be used for adults as well as children?
Yes, gait trainers are available in sizes suitable for adults in rehabilitation or with mobility challenges. - Are walkers or gait trainers covered by NDIS?
Many models are NDIS-funded, particularly for therapy or rehabilitation purposes. - What factors determine whether to choose a gait trainer or walker?
User age, mobility level, therapy goals, and support needs determine the best option. - Can gait trainers be adjusted as a child grows?
Yes, gait trainers are highly adjustable to accommodate growth and therapy progression. - Is a home trial possible before purchase?
Yes, home trials ensure the device fits the user’s environment and mobility needs.
